How to Determine Who is at Fault in a Texas Car Accident
Someone is usually at fault in a Texas car accident with one or more vehicles. While it’s true that some crashes are caused by uncontrollable elements, driver error is the number one cause of auto accidents. If you suspect that someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, call Thompson Law today.
Is often difficult to determine who’s at fault in a Texas car accident. Further, the stakes are high, and everyone involved feels compelled to defend their innocence. That’s why it’s always best for a skilled personal injury attorney to step in and apply their legal expertise.
Texas Car Accident Statistics
Unfortunately, auto accidents are a daily occurrence in Texas. If you or a loved one were injured in a crash, Thompson Law can help determine who is at fault in a texas car accident and recover the compensation you need for hospital bills, lost wages, and more.
- One person was killed in an auto crash every one hour and 57 minutes
- One person was injured every two minutes and 12 seconds
- The fatality rate for Texas roadways increased by 4.17% from 2020
- There were no deathless days on Texas roadways
- There were 15,764 serious injury crashes
The 3 Key Elements that Determine Fault in a Texas Car Accident
Three entities hold crucial roles in a Texas car accident, ensuring that justice is served, evidence is documented, and financial compensation is provided.
1. The Role of the Police
It’s essential to call the police even if your crash is minor. Once on the scene, law enforcement will gather critical details regarding the accident. They might interview drivers, passengers, and witnesses, and they will create a crash report based on their findings.
Accident reports can vary, but they usually contain the following information:
- The location, date, and time of the accident
- The names of the vehicle owners, drivers, and passengers
- Information on weather, lighting, and traffic conditions
- The names and addresses of any injured victims
- A description of any injuries
- The names and contact info of any witnesses
- A description of the vehicles involved
- A description of any property damage
- A diagram of the accident scene: skid marks, vehicle positions, and traffic lanes
People are often hesitant to involve law enforcement after a minor crash. Commonly, one driver will try to talk the other out of getting a report. But the best way to protect yourself after an accident is to contact the police for a formal report.
2. The Role of Insurance Companies
After your accident, you’ll have to file a claim with your insurance company. Each driver will usually have their own insurance adjuster working to determine fault. It’s always best to consult an auto accident lawyer before speaking to an insurance adjuster. Even the slightest misstep or seemingly harmless answer can destroy your payout chances.
Adjusters typically handle the following:
- Reviewing medical documents
- Examining vehicle damage
- Researching the accident
- Confirming insurance policy details
- Speaking directly with drivers and witnesses
It is an adjuster’s job to decide which driver was at fault. When a driver is found negligent, they can be held liable. For example, a driver who runs a stop sign or a red light exhibits dangerous, careless behavior, while a driver who waits at a red light does not. Other examples of negligence include drunk driving, tailgating, distracted driving, and reckless driving.
3. The Role of the Courts
If someone files a personal injury lawsuit after a car crash, the courts will determine which motorist was at fault in a Texas car accident. Negligence will be assigned based on the behavior that led to the accident.
In Texas, negligent behavior might include:
- Running a stop sign
- Running a stop light
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Driving under the influence
- Street racing
- Blocking a roadway
- Negligently entrusting a vehicle to an unlicensed driver
If the courts determine the other motorist was at fault, you could be entitled to financial compensation for damages like injuries, property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Elements of Negligence
In Texas, injury laws require victims to prove certain elements if they hope to hold another party accountable for negligent actions.
These elements are:
- The driver had a duty to operate their vehicle with the care and skill of a person with “reasonable sensibilities”;
- The driver breached that duty through their actions or a failure to act;
- Because of that breach, they caused both an accident and the resulting injuries; and
- The victim has suffered physical, emotional, and or financial damages as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident, and that they deserve compensation
One example of motorist negligence could be running a red light and colliding with a car that was going on green. Another negligent act could be a motorist who follows dangerously close and causes a rear-end collision.
Evidence That Helps Determine Fault
When it comes to determining who is at fault in a Texas car accident, several factors come into play. Multiple types of evidence will be considered to conclude liability. Generally, the more documentation, the better your chances of prevailing in a personal injury lawsuit.
Injuries
With a personal injury lawsuit, proving injuries through evidence is critical. Evidence that helps establish the nature and extent of injuries includes medical records, a doctor’s testimony, and professional opinions on any future medical treatment.
Property Damage
Law enforcement and insurers can both play a role in assessing property damage, particularly damage to your vehicle. Documentation like photos and videos can show the kind of damage to your car. For example, if the rear of your car is crushed, this could help your case that the motorist behind you is at fault.
Forensic Analysis
When a case is complicated, the evidence might be examined by a forensic analyst. As someone who specializes in reviewing medical records, witness statements, photographs, and police reports, they can help all parties fully understand an accident. Their expert analysis builds the story of your crash from start to finish, ultimately determining fault.
Surveillance Footage
In some instances, surveillance footage at the crash site can be valuable in helping prove fault. You may have dash cam footage, or you might be able to retrieve a copy of a video from a nearby shop, residence, or public space. Looking into video evidence of your crash is critical because few things paint a clearer picture and will help to determine who is at fault in a Texas car accident.
A Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If another driver’s negligence caused your injuries, Thompson Law can help. As your advocate, your personal injury lawyer will ensure you get fair compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Call us today for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.
To help determine who is at fault in a Texas car accident, your personal injury attorney will gather information, review evidence, and use their legal expertise to help determine what kind of compensation might be fair in your personal injury case. Don’t depend on insurance adjusters to advocate for you; call the trusted team at Thompson Law so you can focus on getting the treatment and care you and your family need.
Car Accident Lawyer FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
How soon do I need to get a lawyer after a crash?
Calling 911 and getting prompt medical care for your injuries is the first order of business after a car crash. Once you are safe and secure, you should contact an auto accident lawyer right away. Time is of the essence in terms of collecting evidence, speaking to witnesses, and speaking to the insurance claims adjuster assigned to your case.
Do I really need a lawyer for a personal injury lawsuit?
Yes. A car accident lawyer has extensive experience with insurance companies and personal injury law. When you’re recovering from a crash, the last thing you want to do is deal with adjusters trying to give you a lowball offer or deny your claim outright.
What are some common causes of car accidents in Texas?
Common causes of car accidents in Texas include drunk driving, texting or talking while driving, speeding, tailgating, and aggressive driving or road rage. While drivers are often tempted to multitask, even a few seconds of distraction can cause a severe or even fatal crash.
How can a car accident attorney help?
A car accident attorney can handle the complex process of a personal injury lawsuit while you focus on finding relief and achieving recovery. Your lawyer will investigate your crash, talk to the insurance company, negotiate a fair settlement, and estimate your damages. Sometimes, your lawyer will take your case to court and represent you there while the court determines who is at fault in a Texas car accident.
Who determines fault in a Texas car accident?
Deciding who is at fault in a Texas car accident might look different in each case. Liability depends on the unique details of your auto accident and whether you choose to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Law enforcement and insurance adjusters make specific judgment calls regarding fault, but if you sue for personal injury, the courts will ultimately decide.