In the bustling city of Houston, car accidents are, unfortunately, common. While weather conditions and mechanical failure can play a role, distracted driving due to negligence often takes the spotlight. Such distractions can have dire consequences, whether texting, eating, or adjusting the GPS. So, if you or a loved one has been affected by such a mishap, consulting with a car accident lawyer in Houston will give you valuable insights into your claim’s legitimacy and potential compensation.
Understanding the Role of Negligence
Negligence is a failure to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would exercise under similar circumstances. In driving, this could mean anything from not checking your blind spots to texting while behind the wheel.
Texas follows the comparative negligence rule, which allows for a reduction in compensation if the victim also had a part to play in the accident. Thus, establishing the level of negligence is pivotal, and this is where a car accident lawyer in Houston can be invaluable.
Common Types of Driving Distractions
- Texting or Talking on the Phone: This is a top cause of distracted driving, diverting your eyes, hands, and focus away from safely navigating the road in the morning or at night.
- Eating or Drinking: Consuming some sort of food or beverages while driving can lead to fumbling and inattention, increasing the risk of accidents due to distracted behavior.
- In-car Entertainment: Changing radio stations or playlists distracts attention from the road, making it easier to miss important cues like traffic lights, signals, or other stop signs.
- Other Passengers: Engaging in conversations or activities with passengers can divert focus, posing an especially high risk for accidents among young or inexperienced drivers.
Gathering Evidence
When negligence is suspected, gathering concrete evidence becomes crucial for a successful claim. Dash-cam footage, eyewitness accounts, and phone records can be invaluable assets. A car accident lawyer in Houston will also meticulously look into police reports and medical records and may even bring in accident reconstruction experts to build a compelling, strong case.
How Damages Are Calculated
In the aftermath of an accident, the victim may be eligible for compensation covering loss of income, as well as medical expenses, property damage, and emotional distress. The more severe the level of negligence, the higher the compensation is likely to be. Moreover, Texas state law specifically allows for punitive damages if the negligence is found to be grossly careless or intentional.
Distracted driving due to negligence is a significant contributor to car accidents in Houston. A thorough understanding of how negligence factors into your claim can be crucial for compensation and legal vindication. On the other hand, to successfully navigate this complex legal landscape, consulting a reputable car accident lawyer, Houston-based, can be a game-changer.
Take Action Now: Consult a Car Accident Lawyer in Houston Today
If you’ve been impacted by a distracted driving accident and believe negligence was a factor, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. McDonald Worley offers unparalleled legal support, guiding you through each step of your claim. With our expertise, we aim to make the legal journey less daunting, ensuring that justice is served and accountability is upheld. So, what are you waiting for? Contact McDonald Worley today to start rebuilding your life after a tragic accident.