Huge cities like Houston are notorious for highway car accidents. Each year, there are thousands of car accidents on the highways and roads of this metropolis. In many cases, highway car accidents can cause major injuries. A number of factors contribute to the severity of injuries such as the type of collision, the speed of the drivers involved, and whether or not they are wearing seatbelts. The severity of injuries resulting in highway car accidents can range from something mild like simple cuts and bruises to more major injuries like broken bones and paralysis. In any case, injuries can have a devastating effect on your health, finances, and overall ability to live a normal life.
If you have been injured as a result of a highway car accident due to the negligence (in part or wholly) of another driver, it is recommended that you immediately contact an experienced personal injury attorney. There is a statute of limitations for pursuing personal injury claims and suits in the state of Texas, so it is best to act quickly. Give the law office of Jerome O. Fjeld, PLLC a call today to discuss your case and schedule a free initial consultation.
Common Causes of Highway Car Accidents
Most accidents occur as a result of human error. Though in some cases, they may be due to factors outside of the control of any driver such as extreme weather conditions, inept road conditions, and/or impediments in the road. The most common causes of highway car accidents include the following:
- Distracted Driving (anything that takes a driver’s eyes off of the road)
- Driving Under the Influence (alcohol or drugs)
- Speeding or Otherwise Reckless Driving
- Not Paying Attention to Road Signs
- Driving While Tired
Injuries Caused by Highway Car Accidents
Any number of injuries can occur as a result of highway car accidents. In fact, more than 3 million people in the U.S. are injured in auto collisions each year. An injury takes place in almost half of the accidents reported. Some of the most common injuries caused by highway car accidents include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Can include concussions, traumatic brain injuries, disfigurement, fractures, cuts, etc.
- Neck and Back Injuries: The most common of these injuries is whiplash. However, other more severe complications like spinal cord damage, herniated disks, severe strains, as well as sprains can occur.
- Burn Injuries: Many accidents result in cars exploding or catching on fire which can result in major burns. Furthermore, motorists (especially motorcyclists) may be thrown from their vehicle and suffer friction burns as a result of contact with the pavement.
- Eye Injuries: Eye injuries can occur when making contact with your airbags, debris from the accident falling into the eye, or a direct strike from another part of the vehicle.
- Injuries to Limbs: Common injuries to limbs can include sprains, broken bones, cuts, bruises, as well as the loss of limbs.
What to do if You Have Been in an Accident
If you have been in an accident, it is important to follow the correct protocol to ensure the protection of your health as well as finances. Immediately after an accident has occurred, move yourself (and vehicle if possible) out of harm’s way. Check on your health as well as the safety of others involved. Call the police, but never admit fault. Exchange information with other drivers involved. Contact your insurance company. Take note of the road conditions and collect visual evidence like pictures and/or videos. Seek immediate medical attention (even if you are not sure that you are injured). Lastly, contact a reputable accident attorney.
Connecting With a Personal Injury Attorney
Highway car accidents can be scary, dangerous, and in some cases, deadly. Injuries suffered in car accidents can amount to significant medical bills, a loss of income, the inability to make future earning, and general pain and suffering. If you have been injured in a car accident due to the negligence of another driver, it is your right to pursue compensation for your injuries. While you can certainly file a personal injury claim on your own, it is not always the best route. An experienced personal injury attorney understands how to present your case to insurance companies, file the correct documents, negotiate with insurers, as well as pursue a personal injury case in court if necessary. Give the personal injury law firm of Jerome O. Fjeld, PLLC a call to schedule your free initial consultation today.
