Commuting is an unavoidable part of life for many in Fort Worth, and while most daily drives go smoothly, numerous hidden dangers can lead to accidents. As a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth, we’ve seen firsthand how these incidents can unfold, often with devastating consequences.
Let’s explore seven common types of accidents lurking in your everyday commute and how to protect yourself.
1. Distracted Driving Accidents
Distracted driving remains a leading cause of car crashes in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), 17.4% of all car crashes in 2023 were due to driver inattention. Activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS can take your focus off the road for a moment but result in severe collisions.
How to Avoid: Keep your phone out of reach, set your GPS before starting the car, and ensure all controls are pre-set. Staying alert and attentive reduces the risk significantly. If you’ve been injured due to a distracted driver, contacting a Fort Worth car accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation.
2. Intersection Collisions
Intersections are notorious hotspots for accidents, particularly during peak commute times. In Texas, there were over 1,000 intersection-related crashes in 2022, with many incidents occurring due to drivers running red lights or failing to yield. Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.151) mandates drivers yield the right-of-way when entering intersections or turning left.
How to Avoid: Slow down as you approach intersections and be prepared to stop, even if the light is green. Defensive driving is crucial in these scenarios. If you’ve been hurt in an intersection accident, seeking help from an injury lawyer in Texas can ensure your rights are protected.
3. Rear-End Collisions in Traffic Jams
Rear-end collisions are frequent, especially during stop-and-go traffic on Fort Worth’s busy highways. These accidents often result from drivers following too closely or not paying attention when traffic suddenly slows. Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.062) requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance.
How to Avoid: Leave at least three seconds of space between your vehicle and the one ahead. If conditions are poor, increase that distance. If you’re involved in a rear-end crash, a Fort Worth auto accident attorney can assist in determining liability and securing fair compensation.
4. Highway Merging Accidents
Merging onto busy highways like I-35W and I-30 is a common challenge for commuters in Fort Worth. Inadequate merging space, speeding drivers, and sudden lane changes contribute to accidents. Merging incidents often result in side-swipes or, worse, multi-car pileups. According to TxDOT, merging accidents cause significant congestion and multiple injuries annually.
How to Avoid: When merging, use your signal early and match the speed of traffic, ensuring you have enough space before changing lanes. Being mindful of blind spots can also prevent collisions. If you experience a highway merging accident, consulting a car wreck lawyer near me can help you handle the complexities of your case.
5. Pedestrian and Cyclist Collisions
With more people walking or biking to work, pedestrian and cyclist accidents have become increasingly concerning in Fort Worth. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that pedestrian traffic fatalities have increased by 22% between 2019 and 2023.
Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 552.008) requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, and failing to do so can lead to severe legal consequences.
How to Avoid: Always be vigilant at crosswalks and near bike lanes. Reduce your speed in areas with high pedestrian activity, and check for cyclists before opening car doors. If you or someone you know has been involved in such an accident, a Fort Worth car accident lawyer can help navigate the legal process.
6. Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding remains a top contributor to serious accidents in Texas. In 2022, speeding accounted for over 35% of all traffic fatalities statewide. Fort Worth’s major highways, such as Chisholm Trail Parkway, see frequent speeding and aggressive driving cases, putting other commuters at risk. Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.352) sets speed limits, but many drivers ignore these regulations, leading to crashes.
How to Avoid: Stay within speed limits, especially in residential areas or near schools. Defensive driving and leaving space for aggressive drivers to pass can minimize your risk. If you are injured due to someone else’s speeding, contacting an injury lawyer in Texas can be crucial for securing compensation.
7. Road Construction Hazards
Construction zones are a familiar sight around Fort Worth, but they pose significant risks for commuters. TxDOT reports that work zone crashes are responsible for over 4,500 injuries annually in Texas. Lane closures, sudden stops, and uneven surfaces contribute to these accidents. Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.363) emphasizes reduced speed limits in construction zones, and violations carry hefty fines.
How to Avoid: Pay close attention to construction signs, reduce your speed, and be prepared for sudden stops. Avoid distractions in work zones, as conditions can change rapidly. If you’ve been injured in a construction-related accident, a Fort Worth auto accident attorney can assist in determining liability and seeking damages.
Stay Safe on the Roads
Commuting is a daily necessity for many in Fort Worth, but staying vigilant and aware of these hidden dangers is essential. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident during your commute, a car accident lawyer in Fort Worth can guide you through the legal process, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.
For experienced representation and support, reach out to Patterson Law Group today.
