Hurt in a car accident by a distracted driver? Contact Attorney Omar and get the help you need today.
Distracted driving accidents are the worst kind of accidents on Houston roads. When another driver decides to put their phone or other distractions above safety and causes an accident, the consequences can be devastating – from severe injuries to medical bills and lost wages.
At The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, we know what distracted driving accident victims go through. Our Houston lawyers have years of experience handling distracted driving cases, fighting for our clients and getting them the maximum compensation they need. Whether your accident happened on the Katy Freeway, Sam Houston Tollway or anywhere else in Houston, we will walk you through the process and be with you every step of the way to recovery.
Distracted Driving Accidents in Houston, Texas
Distracted driving is one of the top causes of car accidents in Houston, TX and across the country. With all the smartphones and electronic devices out there, drivers are more tempted than ever to look away from the road and put themselves and others at risk. This article will talk about the dangers of distracted driving, the consequences and the legalities of distracted driving accidents in Houston.
What Is Distracted Driving?
Distracted driving is any activity that takes your attention away from driving. There are three types of distractions:
1. Visual distractions: Looking away from the road
2. Manual distractions: Taking your hands off the wheel
3. Cognitive distractions: Taking your mind off driving
Some examples of distracted driving:
- Texting or using a smartphone
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or navigation
- Applying makeup or grooming
- Talking to passengers
- Daydreaming or lost in thought
The Problem in Houston
Houston, being one of the biggest cities in the US, has a big problem with distracted driving accidents. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, in 2020, there were 6,256 distracted driving crashes in Harris County alone and 26 fatalities and 148 serious injuries.
These numbers show we need more awareness and stricter enforcement of distracted driving laws to keep Houston roads safe.
Consequences of Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving accidents can cause a variety of injuries from minor cuts and bruises to life-altering or fatal injuries. Some common injuries from distracted driving accidents are:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Lacerations and contusions
- Internal organ damage
In addition to physical injuries, distracted driving accident victims can suffer emotional trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression. The financial consequences can be severe with mounting medical bills, lost wages and property damage.
Legal Consequences for Distracted Drivers in Houston
In Texas it is illegal to read, write or send electronic messages while driving. This applies to text messages, email and other forms of electronic communication. The fine is up to $200.
But the legal consequences for distracted drivers who get into an accident can be much more severe. Distracted drivers can be held civilly liable for the damages and injuries they cause and in some cases, they can face criminal charges such as reckless driving or vehicular manslaughter.
Proving Liability in Distracted Driving Accidents
To hold a distracted driver liable for an accident you must prove the driver was negligent and that caused the crash. This can be tough as distracted driving is hard to prove without eyewitness testimony or physical evidence.
But an experienced Houston distracted driving accident attorney can help get evidence to support your case such as:
- Cell phone records showing the driver was using their phone at the time of the accident
- Surveillance footage or dashcam video of the driver being distracted
- Eyewitness testimony from other drivers or passengers
- Accident reconstruction experts who can analyze the scene and determine what happened
What to Do If You’re in a Distracted Driving Accident in Houston
If you or a loved one has been in a distracted driving accident in Houston:
1. Get medical attention right away even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt.
2. Call the police and make sure a report is filed.
3. Get evidence, photos of the scene, witness info and the distracted driver’s info.
4. Call an experienced Houston distracted driving accident attorney to talk to.
How a Houston Distracted Driving Accident Attorney Can Help
An experienced Houston distracted driving accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve. An attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and get evidence for your case
- Negotiate with insurance companies for you
- Take you to court if necessary
- Explain your rights and options throughout the process
Preventing Distracted Driving Accidents in Houston
Preventing distracted driving accidents requires individual, community and law enforcement commitment. Some ways to reduce distracted driving accidents in Houston:
- Educate drivers about the risks of distracted driving
- Tell drivers to put their phones away while driving or use hands free devices
- Support strict enforcement of distracted driving laws
- Encourage employers to have distracted driving policies for their employees
- Be a good example and don’t be distracted while driving
Together we can make our Houston roads safer and reduce the devastation of distracted driving accidents.
Why Contact the Law Offices of Omar Khawaja?
If you or a loved one was involved in a car accident with a distracted driver in Houston, you need to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather evidence for your case and get you the compensation you deserve.
At The Law Offices of Omar Khawaja, our Houston personal injury lawyers have years of experience with distracted driving accident cases. We will be your advocate and fight for you.
Our Houston car accident lawyers will:
Investigate the Crash: Get evidence, interview witnesses and work with accident reconstruction experts.
Deal with Insurance Companies: Negotiate with insurers to get fair compensation.
Calculate Damages: Determine current and future losses from the crash.
Represent Your Interests: Advocate for you in settlement negotiations or court.
Conclusion
Distracted driving accidents are a preventable tragedy that kills too many and causes untold suffering in Houston every year. If you or a loved one has been in a distracted driving accident call an experienced Houston distracted driving accident attorney to help you get your rights and get the compensation you deserve. Together we can hold distracted drivers accountable and make our community safer for all.
Client Testimonial
“After a hit-and-run accident, I was unsure where to turn. Attorney Omar not only helped me understand my rights but also secured a settlement that covered my medical bills and car repairs. Highly recommended!” — Lana