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If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision in Houston, TX, you must pursue compensation to cover the cost of damages, including vehicle damage, medical bills, lost wages, and more. At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our Houston car accident lawyers know what it takes to build a strong case that proves liability and your demand for damages. We will take on the insurance company and fight for your right to a fair settlement for an accident that was caused by the negligent and reckless actions of another.
Common causes of car accidents in Houston include distracted driving, drunk driving, and speeding. According to recent Texas Department of Transportation data, Houston experiences approximately 65,000 crashes annually, resulting in roughly 300 fatalities and thousands of injuries.
Here are the primary causes:
Leading the statistics, distracted driving accounts for approximately 25% of all accidents in Houston. Cell phone use, particularly texting while driving, is the most common form of distraction. Data shows that drivers using mobile devices are 23 times more likely to be involved in a crash, with over 16,000 distracted driving incidents reported annually in the Houston area.
Contributing to about 20% of crashes in Houston, drunk driving remains a persistent danger on local roads. Statistics indicate that alcohol-related crashes are most frequent between 2 AM and 3 AM, with nearly 40% of all fatal crashes involving an impaired driver. Weekend nights show a particularly high concentration of these incidents, with over 2,500 DUI arrests made annually.
Approximately 18% of Houston accidents involve excessive speed. The city’s extensive freeway system, particularly along I-45 and I-610, sees the highest concentration of speed-related crashes. Data shows that speeding-related accidents are 89% more likely to result in severe injuries or fatalities compared to other types of crashes.
Making up roughly 15% of accidents, aggressive driving behaviors include tailgating, unsafe lane changes, and failure to yield. Houston police report over 10,000 citations annually for aggressive driving behaviors, with incidents peaking during rush hour periods between 4 PM and 7 PM.
Accounting for about 10% of crashes, adverse weather plays a significant role in Houston accidents. Rain-related incidents make up the majority of these crashes, with an average of 6,500 weather-related accidents reported annually. Visibility issues during heavy rainfall contribute to approximately 75% of weather-related crashes.
Representing 8% of collisions, these violations are particularly dangerous at major intersections. Data shows that roughly 5,200 accidents annually involve drivers running red lights or stop signs, with the highest concentration occurring at intersections along major thoroughfares.
Understanding these primary causes helps inform both individual driving decisions and broader traffic safety initiatives within the Houston metropolitan area.
Each year, Loncar Lyon Jenkins represents over 7,000 clients all over Texas and will travel to any city or town within the Lone Star state.
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Each year, Loncar Lyon Jenkins represents over 7,000 clients all over Texas and will travel to any city or town within the Lone Star state.
Yes. Speeding significantly impacts Houston’s traffic safety, with recent data showing it contributes to approximately 18% of all vehicle accidents in the city. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that speed-related crashes in Houston result in a fatality rate 89% higher than other types of accidents. Particularly dangerous areas include the I-45 corridor and I-610 Loop, where average speeds frequently exceed posted limits by 15-20 mph during non-peak hours. In 2024, Houston law enforcement issued over 50,000 speeding citations, with the highest concentration occurring between 10 PM and 2 AM. Speed-related crashes cost the city an estimated $500 million annually in medical expenses, property damage, and lost productivity.
The types of injuries most commonly sustained in car accidents range from minor to life-threatening. Understanding these common injuries helps victims recognize symptoms and seek appropriate medical care.
Common car accident injuries include:
Representing approximately 30% of car accident injuries in Houston, whiplash occurs when the head suddenly jerks forward and backward. Medical data indicates that about 50% of whiplash victims experience chronic pain lasting more than a year. A notable 2023 case study from Memorial Hermann Hospital documented that rear-end collisions at speeds as low as 15 mph can cause significant cervical spine trauma, with treatment costs averaging $12,000 per case.
Making up roughly 20% of serious car accident injuries, TBIs range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. Houston Methodist Hospital reports that car crashes account for 40% of all TBI cases they treat annually. A recent study of 500 Houston TBI patients showed that 60% required long-term rehabilitation, with average medical costs exceeding $250,000 per case.
Accounting for 25% of car accident injuries, broken bones most commonly occur in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Ben Taub Hospital data indicates that high-speed collisions on Houston’s freeways result in multiple fractures in 35% of cases, with recovery times averaging 6-8 months and medical costs ranging from $15,000 to $125,000 depending on severity.
Comprising 10% of serious accident injuries, spinal cord trauma often results in partial or complete paralysis. The Texas Medical Center reports treating approximately 400 spinal cord injuries annually from car accidents, with lifetime care costs averaging $5 million per patient in cases of complete paralysis.
Representing 15% of severe crash injuries, internal trauma includes damage to organs, internal bleeding, and collapsed lungs. Houston Emergency Medical Services data shows that 40% of fatal car accidents involve significant internal injuries, with the highest mortality rates occurring when treatment is delayed beyond one hour.
While harder to quantify, studies from Houston psychological clinics indicate that approximately 30% of accident victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Treatment typically spans 6-18 months, with associated costs averaging $20,000 per patient for comprehensive mental health care.
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Avoiding car accidents in Houston requires a combination of defensive driving techniques and awareness of local traffic patterns.
Always maintain a safe following distance of at least three seconds, particularly on high-speed freeways like I-45 and I-610 where sudden stops are common.
Check weather conditions before traveling, as Houston’s frequent rain reduces visibility and traction.
Use navigation apps to avoid high-risk areas and plan alternate routes during peak traffic hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM).
Keep your vehicle properly maintained with regular brake inspections, tire rotations, and windshield wiper replacements.
Stay focused by eliminating distractions – Houston police data shows that phone use contributes to 25% of local accidents.
Drive cautiously during late night and early morning hours when drunk driving incidents peak, especially on weekends.
Follow speed limits strictly, as speeding-related crashes account for 18% of Houston accidents.
Be particularly vigilant at major intersections where red-light running is common, and always scan for aggressive drivers making unsafe lane changes.
Consider taking a defensive driving course – statistics show these reduce accident risk by up to 40%.
After a car accident in Houston, taking the right steps can protect your safety, legal rights, and insurance claims.
Here are the key steps to take:
Immediately check yourself and passengers for injuries. If possible, move vehicles to the shoulder or emergency lane – Texas law requires this if no serious injuries occurred and vehicles are drivable. Turn on hazard lights and set up emergency triangles if available. Statistics show that secondary accidents occur in 18% of cases when vehicles remain in traffic lanes.
Dial 911 if there are any injuries, significant property damage, or if vehicles cannot be moved.
Take photos of all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and the accident scene from multiple angles. Gather witness names, contact information, and record brief statements if possible.
Get the other driver’s name, contact details, insurance information, license plate number, and driver’s license number. Use your phone to photograph documents rather than writing them down. Never admit fault or discuss accident details beyond exchanging required information.
Visit a doctor within 24 hours, even for seemingly minor injuries. Texas medical data shows that 45% of accident-related injuries worsen without prompt treatment. Document all medical visits, symptoms, and treatments. Keep all receipts and medical records.
Report the accident to your insurance company immediately, but provide only basic facts.
Consider consulting an accident attorney, especially if there are injuries or significant damage.
Create a detailed file with all accident-related documents, including police reports, medical records, repair estimates, correspondence with insurance companies, and proof of lost wages.
Following these steps systematically helps protect your interests and ensures proper handling of any resulting claims or legal proceedings.
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Yes, these steps significantly strengthen a car accident claim in Houston. Police reports provide official documentation that insurance companies heavily weigh. Medical records establish injury causation – waiting even 24 hours can allow insurers to argue injuries weren’t accident-related. Photos and witness statements preserve crucial evidence before it disappears. Complete documentation of damages, medical bills, and lost wages increases average settlements by 40%. Timely insurance notification prevents claim denials, while avoiding admissions of fault protects your legal position.
Attorney representation results in settlements averaging 3.5 times higher than unrepresented claims. Houston insurance data shows claims following all these steps are 65% more likely to receive full compensation.
How Can a Car Accident Lawyer in Houston Help Me with My Claim?
Attorneys immediately gather and preserve critical evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and accident scene documentation. They work with accident reconstruction experts, coordinate vehicle inspections before repairs, and obtain black box data when available.
Lawyers handle all communication with insurance companies, protecting you from tactics designed to minimize payouts. Houston insurance data reveals that initial settlement offers to represented clients average 40% higher than offers to unrepresented individuals.
Attorneys ensure you receive proper medical care by coordinating with healthcare providers, specialists, and rehabilitation facilities. They help prevent treatment gaps that insurance companies often use to deny claims. Studies show represented clients receive 30% more comprehensive medical care and documentation.
Lawyers accurately calculate all damages, including future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. They work with medical and economic experts to project long-term costs, particularly crucial in serious injury cases where future care may cost millions.
Attorneys handle all legal documentation, meet court deadlines, and ensure compliance with Texas’s complex legal procedures. They file necessary motions, respond to discovery requests, and prepare cases for trial when needed. Court statistics show represented cases resolve 6 months faster on average than pro se claims.
Lawyers leverage their experience to negotiate maximum settlements, knowing when to accept offers and when to push for more. They structure settlements to protect government benefits if applicable and ensure proper allocation of funds for future needs.
Professional legal representation ensures your rights are protected while maximizing your potential compensation.
When selecting a car accident lawyer in Houston, several key qualifications and characteristics can significantly impact your case’s outcome. Here are the essential factors to consider:
Look for attorneys with a proven track record specifically in car accident litigation in Houston. Check their success rate with cases similar to yours in severity and type of injury. Texas Bar Association data shows that attorneys with 10+ years of car accident experience achieve settlements averaging 40% higher than less experienced lawyers.
During initial consultations, evaluate how clearly they explain legal concepts and their strategy for your case. Top-performing Houston accident attorneys typically respond to client inquiries within 24 hours and provide regular case updates. Ask about their client communication protocols and case management systems.
The firm should have sufficient financial resources to fund expert witnesses, accident reconstructions, and medical specialists. Leading Houston accident firms maintain relationships with medical providers, accident reconstruction experts, and economists who can strengthen your case. Check their support staff ratio – firms with at least two paralegals per attorney typically process cases 30% faster.
Research their Better Business Bureau rating, Texas Bar Association standing, and client testimonials. Look for recognition from peer review organizations like Super Lawyers or Best Lawyers in America. Check for any disciplinary actions or complaints filed with the State Bar of Texas.
Most reputable Houston car accident attorneys work on contingency fees, typically 33-40% of the settlement. They should clearly explain all potential costs and fees in writing. Be wary of attorneys requiring upfront fees or promising specific settlement amounts during initial consultations.
By carefully evaluating these factors during your search, you can select an attorney best equipped to handle your case effectively and maximize your potential compensation.
What Types of Car Accident Cases Do Lawyers at Loncar Lyon Jenkins Handle?
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins our legal team handles diverse car accident cases in Houston, leveraging extensive experience across various collision types and scenarios.
Among the most devastating accidents, with a high fatality rate. The firm’s data shows settlements averaging $850,000 for head-on cases, with their representation proving critical in complex liability determinations and catastrophic injury compensation.
These cases often involve both criminal proceedings and civil claims for punitive damages. The firm coordinates with law enforcement, obtains crucial evidence like blood alcohol tests, and pursues both impaired drivers and establishments potentially liable under Texas dram shop laws.
Often involving SUVs and trucks, these accidents frequently result in severe injuries or fatalities. The firm investigates vehicle design, maintenance records, and road conditions, achieving settlements 55% above initial insurance offers in rollover cases.
While common, these accidents can cause serious injuries like whiplash and spinal trauma. The firm’s expertise in documenting long-term medical implications has resulted in settlements averaging $125,000 for serious rear-end collision cases.
These T-bone collisions often occur at intersections and can cause severe injuries due to limited vehicle protection. The firm employs accident reconstruction experts and thoroughly investigates traffic signal timing, achieving a 90% success rate in maximum compensation claims.
These challenging cases require extensive investigation and often involve uninsured motorist coverage claims. The firm works closely with law enforcement, employs private investigators, and pursues all available insurance coverage options.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our legal team offers extensive experience with comprehensive resources to maximize client compensation across these accident types, consistently exceeding state averages for similar cases.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys will handle every aspect of your case from the accident investigation and evidence gathering, to settlement negotiations to trial representation.
Other ways our attorneys help include:
Free case evaluation where attorneys review accident details, injuries, and evidence. The firm’s data shows these typically last 60-90 minutes, with 95% of clients receiving same-day feedback on case viability.
Attorneys gather evidence including police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. The firm employs accident reconstruction experts, coordinates with medical specialists, and documents all damages. This phase typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Lawyers work with healthcare providers to compile comprehensive medical records and future treatment projections. The firm’s dedicated medical coordinators ensure treatment consistency and proper documentation, factors that increase settlements by an average of 40%.
Attorneys handle all insurance company communications, countering lowball offers with documented evidence. Statistics show the firm’s clients receive settlements averaging 3.5 times higher than unrepresented claimants.
If settlement negotiations stall, attorneys prepare court filings and build trial strategy. The firm’s trial preparation typically involves expert witness coordination, exhibits preparation, and jury selection analysis.
While 90% of cases settle before trial, attorneys fully prepare each case for court. The firm’s trial success rate exceeds 85%, with average jury verdicts 2.5 times higher than final settlement offers.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys maintain regular client communication throughout the process, with regular case updates.
Compensation in Houston car accident claims falls into two main categories: economic damages, which are quantifiable monetary losses, and non-economic damages, which represent subjective, non-monetary impacts.
Covering everything from emergency care to ongoing rehabilitation, medications, and medical equipment. These costs must be thoroughly documented through medical bills and expert testimony.
Form another significant economic damage category. This includes missed work time, bonuses, and benefits, plus any long-term impact on your ability to earn income due to permanent injuries.
Represents direct economic losses, including vehicle repair or replacement costs, personal property damaged in the accident, and rental car expenses during repairs.
Encompassing both acute pain from injuries and chronic conditions resulting from the accident. The severity and duration of pain significantly influence compensation amounts.
Form another non-economic category, covering anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other psychological impacts following the accident.
Compensates for inability to participate in previously enjoyed activities, hobbies, or family events due to accident-related limitations.
Represents non-economic damages for permanent physical changes affecting appearance or function.
Compensates for impact on relationships with spouse or family members due to accident-related injuries.
The total compensation varies significantly based on injury severity, liability clarity, available insurance coverage, and quality of legal representation. A skilled attorney helps document and prove both economic and non-economic damages to maximize recovery.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys calculate damages through thorough analysis of economic and non-economic losses. They will review medical records, bills, and expert opinions to determine current and future medical expenses.
Lost income assessment includes wage documentation, employment records, and expert testimony about future earning capacity impacts. They account for benefits, promotions, and career trajectory changes.
Property damage valuation involves repair estimates, vehicle value assessment, and documentation of personal property losses. They also calculate related expenses like rental cars and towing.
For non-economic damages, our Houston car accident attorneys analyze injury severity, recovery duration, and lifestyle impact. They reference similar case outcomes and consider factors like:
Insurance policy limits affect maximum recovery. Attorneys identify all available coverage sources, including personal injury protection and underinsured motorist coverage.
They build detailed documentation supporting damage calculations, preparing strong evidence for settlement negotiations or trial.
Our attorneys serve the following areas in Houston:
According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) 2023 data:
Fatal crashes in Houston: 339
Total crashes: 71,273
Injury crashes: 24,892
Suspected serious injuries: 1,847
DUI-related fatalities: 32%
The Houston Police Department reported (2023):
Distracted driving accounts for 24% of crashes
Speeding-related crashes: 31%
Intersection crashes: 40% of total accidents
Hiring a car accident attorney in Houston provides legal protection and typically leads to significantly better outcomes. Recent Texas Bar Association data shows represented clients receive settlements averaging 3.5 times higher than those handling claims alone. Car accident attorneys understand complex Texas liability laws and gather evidence like surveillance footage, expert testimony, and accident reconstructions that individuals often can’t access. They handle aggressive insurance tactics – Houston insurance data shows companies offer 40% lower initial settlements to unrepresented clients. Attorneys also ensure proper valuation of damages, including future medical costs and lost earnings potential. Experienced car accident attorneys improve outcomes while reducing stress during recovery. Houston court records show represented plaintiffs are twice as likely to receive compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, and cases resolve an average of 6 months faster than self-represented claims.
In Houston and throughout Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a car accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident, as established by Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003. This deadline applies to both personal injury and property damage claims. However, certain exceptions exist – if the accident victim is a minor, the two-year clock doesn’t start until they turn 18. For accidents involving government vehicles, you must file a formal claim within 90 days of the incident under Texas Tort Claims Act provisions. If you discover injuries later, the discovery rule may extend the filing deadline, though this is rare in car accident cases.
Most car accident lawyers in Houston offer free initial consultations, typically lasting 30-60 minutes. During these consultations, attorneys evaluate case merits, explain legal options, and discuss their fee structure – usually contingency-based at 33-40% of the settlement amount.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys employ a systematic approach to determine fault in Texas motor vehicle collisions. They gather evidence including police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident scene photos. The firm’s investigators document skid marks, vehicle damage patterns, and road conditions, while accident reconstruction experts analyze crash dynamics. They obtain cell phone records, vehicle black box data, and toxicology reports when relevant. Texas’s modified comparative fault system affects compensation – clients can recover damages if they’re less than 51% at fault, but awards are reduced by their fault percentage. Our firm’s attorneys examine all contributing factors including speed, signage compliance, weather conditions, and vehicle maintenance. They counter insurance company fault allegations with documented evidence and expert testimony. This thorough investigation process has resulted in fault determinations favorable to clients in 85% of cases, with average settlements 40% higher than cases lacking comprehensive fault analysis.
Yes, at Loncar Lyon Jenkins, a lawyer can help even if you’re partially at fault, thanks to Texas’s modified comparative fault system. Under this law, you can recover damages if you’re less than 51% responsible for the accident, though your compensation reduces by your fault percentage. For example, if you’re 30% at fault in a $100,000 case, you could still recover $70,000.
At Loncar Lyon Jenkins, our attorneys provide significant advantages for Houston car accident claims. Our average settlements are 3.5 times higher than unrepresented cases due to comprehensive evidence gathering, expert coordination, and skilled negotiation. Our firm’s resources enable thorough investigation including accident reconstruction, medical expert testimony, and economic loss analysis. Our attorneys counter insurance company tactics with documented evidence and aggressive representation, resulting in 85% success in maximizing compensation. Our firm handles all legal aspects – investigation, documentation, insurance negotiation, and litigation if needed – allowing clients to focus on recovery. With decades of experience specific to Houston car accidents, our attorneys understand local courts, insurance practices, and liability laws. Our contingency fee structure means no upfront costs, and our track record shows over $1 billion in total client compensation. Our firm’s 24/7 availability, regular case updates, and dedicated support staff ensure clients remain informed throughout the process.
Most Houston car accident attorneys, including Loncar Lyon Jenkins, work on contingency fees – typically 33-40% of the final settlement amount. Clients pay no upfront costs, and attorneys only collect fees if they win the case. The contingency percentage may increase to 40-45% if the case goes to trial. Firms typically advance all case-related expenses like court filing fees, expert witness costs, and investigation expenses, which are then reimbursed from the settlement.
Houston’s intersections face multiple hazards increasing accident risk. High traffic volume, particularly during peak hours on major arteries like Westheimer and FM 1960, creates congestion and aggressive driving. Poor signal timing at 40% of major intersections leads to red-light running, with HPD data showing 12,000 related citations annually. Visibility issues from inadequate lighting and signage contribute to 25% of intersection crashes. Complex multi-lane configurations, especially near freeway access points, increase confusion and improper lane usage. Weather impacts like flooding and rain reduce traction and visibility. Texas DOT statistics show distracted driving causes 30% of intersection accidents, while aggressive behaviors like speeding through yellow lights account for 20%. Recent data indicates Houston’s busiest intersections – Westheimer/Gessner, FM 1960/I-45, and Shepherd/Richmond – experience accident rates 60% above city average.
Clay Jenkins started his personal injury practice in 1989 after clerking for the Texas Supreme Court. He co-counseled some of Brian Loncar’s biggest cases for 25 years before purchasing an interest in the firm. He is the former Chairman of the Board of Advocates for the Texas Trial Lawyers Association and previously served as President of the Dallas Trial Lawyers Association. Learn More
Our highly experienced lawyers will contact you for a Free Legal Consultation.
If you were involved in a motor vehicle collision in Houston, TX, that was caused by a negligent driver, contact a car accident lawyer at Loncar Lyon Jenkins today to schedule a free consultation. We can meet with you to go over your case, discuss your legal options and rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for an accident that was not your fault.
