For many, there are few things worse than being stuck in traffic. Not only can it make you late for work, appointments, or meetups with friends, but it can also be dangerous. As such, many accidents impact those sitting in traffic due to the increased number of vehicles and tempers. If struck while moving through traffic congestion, understanding the steps you must take to protect yourself is crucial. The following blog explores why these conditions pose an increased risk and what kinds of accidents are prevalent. You’ll also learn how a Houston auto accident lawyer can assist you if you wish to pursue compensation for the injuries you’ve suffered.
Why Is Traffic Congestion Dangerous?
When stuck in traffic, many people will grow frustrated with the lack of movement. As such, they may become agitated, which can impact their driving. They may try to weave in and out of traffic to get in front of the line, refuse to let other cars merge into the lane, drive on the shoulder to cut ahead of other cars, or speed up quickly and slam on the breaks.
What Kinds of Accidents Can Happen?
Most commonly, rear-end collisions will occur in traffic due to the close proximity of vehicles. Additionally, when in traffic, drivers may become distracted by their phones, daydreaming, eating, or talking with their passengers. As such, they may not pay attention to the road, resulting in a collision with the car in front.
Similarly, cars may attempt to switch lanes without checking their blind spot. This can cause “sides-swipe” collisions, which occur when the right side of one vehicle hits the left side of another. These accidents can also happen if a vehicle tries to exit the roadway to the opposite side, colliding with a passing car.
Finally, collisions can occur when one driver attempts to get around another car by moving out of their lane. Unfortunately, doing so can lead to a head-on collision if they must move into oncoming traffic to pass a vehicle.
Do I Need an Attorney if I’m Struck By Another Driver?
If you are struck by another vehicle while stuck in traffic, you’ll want to enlist the assistance of an experienced attorney to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Waiting too long for legal representation can impact your ability to recover compensation as you may find it harder to locate the necessary reports, documents, or witnesses who may be able to help prove the other party negligent in their actions. It’s also important to note that there is a two-year statute of limitations in Texas for personal injury cases. As such, you must file the claim against the negligent party before two years from the date of the accident have passed. Failure to do so means you relinquish your right to pursue compensation.
If you are injured while stuck in traffic, the Gonzalez Law Group is ready to assist. Our dedicated legal team has the experience necessary to guide you through the complexities of recovering justice. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you.
