Approximately 49% of all fatal accidents reported in Texas are single-vehicle accidents. These accidents often involve a car leaving the roadway, colliding with stationary objects, or rolling over.
While it may seem that the driver is always at fault, this is not always true. The complexities of single-vehicle accidents make skilled legal representation essential to navigate the intricacies of liability and compensation.
At Patterson Law Group, a Fort Worth single-vehicle accident lawyer, we are dedicated to helping victims of these challenging cases. We understand the unique difficulties involved in single-vehicle accidents. We are here to guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Single Vehicle Accidents
Several factors can contribute to single-vehicle accidents. These may include:
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- Mechanical failure or vehicle defects: Mechanical issues, such as brake failure or steering malfunctions, can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle, leading to an accident. These defects may be due to manufacturing errors or improper maintenance by a service provider.
- Poor road conditions (e.g., potholes, loose gravel): Poorly maintained roads with potholes, loose gravel, or uneven surfaces can cause a driver to lose control and result in an accident. Drivers may not have enough time to react to these hazards, especially at high speeds.
- Inadequate or missing road signage: Missing or unclear road signs can prevent drivers from receiving critical information, such as upcoming curves, speed limits, or construction zones. This lack of information can lead to accidents, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Debris or obstacles left on the road: Objects left on the road, such as construction debris or fallen tree branches, can cause drivers to swerve or lose control while trying to avoid a collision. These obstacles may be the result of negligence by third parties.
- Poorly designed or maintained roadways: Roads with sharp curves, inadequate lighting, or insufficient guardrails can contribute to accidents, especially in adverse conditions. Poor road design or maintenance is often the responsibility of the local government or relevant authorities.
- Faulty traffic signals or lights: Malfunctioning traffic signals or lights can lead to confusion and misjudgments by drivers, increasing the likelihood of accidents. These issues may arise from inadequate maintenance or technical failures.
Types of Single Vehicle Accidents Reported in Fort Worth
Single-vehicle accidents in Fort Worth can occur in several ways, each presenting challenges.
- Rollover Accidents: These accidents occur when a vehicle tips over onto its side or roof. They are often caused by sharp turns, collisions, or high speeds and can lead to severe injuries due to the violent motion involved.
- Run-off-Road Accidents: These happen when a vehicle leaves the roadway and crashes into a ditch, embankment, or other off-road hazards. Run-off-road accidents are frequently the result of driver distraction, fatigue, or poor road conditions.
- Collisions with Stationary Objects: This accident involves hitting objects like trees, poles, or guardrails. These collisions are often severe, as the full force of the crash is absorbed by the vehicle and its occupants.
- Vehicle Fire Accidents: In some cases, a single-vehicle accident can cause the car to catch fire, particularly if the fuel tank is ruptured. Vehicle fires can result from collisions, mechanical failures, or electrical issues.
- Spin-out Accidents: Spin-outs occur when a vehicle loses traction and spins uncontrollably, often leading to a crash. This is common on wet or icy roads and can be exacerbated by sudden braking or sharp steering.
- Tire Blowout Accidents: A tire blowout can cause a vehicle to swerve or lose control, particularly at high speeds. Blowouts can result from overinflated or underinflated tires, road debris, or worn-out tires.
- Overcorrecting Accidents: When a driver overreacts to a minor issue, such as drifting out of a lane, by sharply turning the wheel, it can lead to a loss of control and a subsequent crash.
Who Can Be Liable in a Single-Vehicle Accident?
Liability in single-vehicle accidents is not always straightforward. Several parties could be held responsible, depending on the circumstances:
- The Driver: If the accident was caused by the driver’s actions, such as distracted driving or speeding, they may be held liable for the damages.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: If a mechanical failure or defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held responsible for producing a faulty product.
- A Government Entity: Poor road conditions, inadequate signage, or faulty traffic signals could make a government entity responsible for contributing to the accident.
- A Construction Company: If road work was improperly marked or hazardous debris was left on the road, the construction company could be liable for any accidents that occur.
- A Third Party: In cases where an obstacle, such as debris left by another vehicle, caused the accident, the party responsible for that obstacle could be held liable.
Proving fault in single-vehicle accidents can be challenging, particularly when external factors are involved. An experienced single-vehicle accident attorney in Fort Worth can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather necessary evidence, and build a compelling case to establish liability.
Common Injuries in Single Vehicle Accidents
Victims of single-vehicle accidents often sustain a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting impacts on their lives. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Contusions
- Soft tissue injuries
- Amputations
The long-term effects of these injuries can severely affect victims’ ability to work, maintain relationships, and enjoy daily activities. Injuries may sometimes require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care, leading to significant financial burdens.
Compensation Available to Victims
Victims of single-vehicle accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation. Types of damages that can be pursued include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Diminished quality of life
- Property damage
A Fort Worth single-vehicle accident lawyer can help you accurately assess all damages, ensuring you receive the full compensation you are entitled to. This includes immediate costs like medical bills and future expenses related to your recovery and long-term well-being.
Steps to Take After a Single Vehicle Accident
If you have been involved in a single-vehicle accident, taking the right steps immediately afterward is crucial to protecting your rights and strengthening your case. Here are some important actions to consider:
- Seek Medical Attention: Don’t overlook getting a medical evaluation, even if you believe your injuries are minor. Some injuries may not be visible right away and could worsen as time passes.
- Evaluate the Scene and Collect Evidence: Take photos of the crash site, including your vehicle, the conditions of the road, and any visible injuries. This documentation can be invaluable when proving your case.
- Contact an Attorney: Reaching out to a single-vehicle accident attorney in Fort Worth as soon as possible is crucial. Your attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and begin building your case.
- Avoid Making Statements: Exercise caution in your interactions with insurance adjusters or other involved parties after an accident. Your words might be used to your detriment when making a claim.
- Follow Up on Medical Treatment: Keep all medical appointments and follow your doctor’s recommendations. Consistent medical care is important for both your recovery and your legal case.
How Our Firm Can Help
At Patterson Law Group, we have extensive experience handling single-vehicle accident cases. Our firm is dedicated to providing each client with personalized and effective legal representation. We understand the challenges victims face and are here to support you throughout the legal process.
Our track record of success speaks for itself. We have helped numerous clients in Fort Worth and throughout Texas recover the compensation they deserve. Whether through settlements or trials, we are committed to fighting for your rights and holding negligent parties accountable.
Single Vehicle Accident FAQs
Car crash victims often have many questions regarding their rights. Here are answers to some of the most common.
How long do I have to file a claim after a single-vehicle accident?
After a single-vehicle crash in Texas, you may have up to two years to take legal action. However, if a government entity is involved, you will have far less time to protect your rights. For this reason, it is essential to seek help from a Fort Worth single-vehicle accident lawyer right away.
What if a mechanical failure caused my accident?
If a mechanical failure or defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident, the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider could be held liable. An auto accident lawyer in Fort Worth can help investigate and determine liability.
What costs can I recover in a single-vehicle accident claim?
Victims may be able to recover various costs, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Your Fort Worth car accident attorney can help assess all damages and pursue full compensation on your behalf.
Contact Our Single Vehicle Accident Attorney in Fort Worth
If you have been involved in a single-vehicle accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact our experienced Fort Worth single-vehicle accident lawyer at Patterson Law Group for a free consultation. Our legal team is available 24/7 to provide the guidance and assistance you need during this difficult time. Our dedicated legal team is here to answer your questions, evaluate your case, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
