Intersections are dangerous. Not only are vehicles approaching from multiple directions, but pedestrians and bicyclists are also frequently crossing these points, increasing the complexity and potential for misjudgments or errors that can result in serious accidents and, even, deaths.

According to the Federal Highway Safety Administration, more than 50 percent of the nation’s car accidents occur at or near intersections – and Texas doesn’t fair much better. In 2021, the most recent year statistics were available, 1037 people were killed in intersection crashes, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

That’s an unsettling statistic, but not one that comes as a surprise to our Fort Worth intersection accident attorneys. They have seen first-hand the devastation these intersection crashes can have on victims and their families. In many cases, these accidents are caused by the negligence of one or more drivers, and the victims are left to deal with the physical, emotional, and financial consequences.

If you have been injured or a loved one was killed in an intersection accident in Fort Worth or the surrounding area, it’s important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. You may be entitled to substantial compensation for your losses.

In this article, a Fort Worth intersection accident attorney explains common causes of intersection accidents, the process for recovering compensation, and how our law firm can help. We offer free consultations and, if we take your case, we only get paid if we win compensation for you. You will never pay anything out-of-pocket.

Common Causes of Intersection Accidents in Fort Worth

Various factors can cause intersection accidents, but some of the most common include running red lights, failing to yield, distracted driving, and speeding. In many cases, these accidents could have been avoided if the drivers involved had paid more attention to the road and followed traffic laws. Here are some of the most common reasons for intersection accidents in Fort Worth:

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of intersection accidents in Fort Worth and throughout the United States. Drivers texting, using their phones, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities may fail to notice a red light, stop sign, or other traffic signals, leading to a collision.

Speeding

Speeding is a significant contributor to intersection accidents in Fort Worth. Drivers traveling too fast may be unable to stop to avoid a collision, especially if approaching an intersection on a downhill slope.

Failure to Yield Right-Of-Way

Failure to yield the right-of-way is another common cause of intersection accidents in Fort Worth. Drivers who fail to yield to other vehicles or pedestrians at an intersection may cause a collision, especially if they turn left or enter the intersection from a side street.

Running Red Lights or Stop Signs

Drivers who run red lights or stop signs at intersections may cause T-bone collisions, which can be particularly dangerous and deadly.

Intoxication

Intoxicated drivers are always dangerous on the road but can be especially dangerous at intersections. Drunk drivers may fail to stop at traffic signals, make unsafe turns, or cause other collisions that can result in serious injuries or fatalities.

Poor Weather Conditions

Poor weather conditions, such as heavy rain or fog, can make it difficult for drivers to see traffic signals or other vehicles at an intersection. Drivers who fail to adjust their driving habits to account for poor weather conditions may be at risk of causing an intersection accident.

These are just a few of the most common reasons for intersection accidents in Fort Worth. If you have been injured in this type of accident, a Fort Worth intersection accident attorney at Varghese Summersett Injury Law Group can help you understand your legal options moving forward.

Liability for Intersection Accidents

Determining liability in an intersection accident case can be complex, but it comes down to negligence. If one or more drivers acted carelessly or recklessly and caused the accident, they may be liable for the resulting damages.

To prove liability, gathering as much evidence as possible is essential. This can include police reports, witness statements, and video footage from nearby cameras. An experienced Fort Worth intersection accident attorney can build a strong case and work to hold the negligent driver(s) accountable.

What Are Common Injuries From Intersection Accidents in Fort Worth?

Victims of Fort Worth intersection accidents can suffer a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering. Fortunately, if another driver’s negligence caused the accident, the victim may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. Here are some common injuries that victims of Fort Worth intersection accidents can possibly receive compensation for:

Whiplash

Whiplash is a soft tissue injury when the neck is suddenly and forcefully jerked back and forth, causing the muscles and ligaments to stretch and tear. This type of injury is common in intersection accidents, especially rear-end collisions.

Broken bones

Broken bones are typical of intersection accidents, particularly those involving high speeds or violent impacts. Victims may require surgery, physical therapy, and other medical treatment to recover fully.

Traumatic brain injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can occur when the head is struck or shaken violently in an intersection accident. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage and can have long-lasting effects on the victim’s cognitive abilities, emotions, and physical abilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can occur when the spinal cord is damaged in an intersection accident, causing loss of sensation or function below the site of the injury. These injuries can be life-altering and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Internal injuries

Internal injuries can be challenging to diagnose and treat but can be very serious and even life-threatening. Victims may suffer from internal bleeding, organ damage, or other injuries that require surgery or further medical intervention.

If you have been injured in a Fort Worth intersection accident, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately and contact an experienced Fort Worth intersection accident attorney. Our attorneys can launch an extensive investigation and pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages so that you can focus on your recovery.

What are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Texas?

According to crash data and other factors from the Texas Department of Transportation, some intersections in the state have been identified as particularly hazardous. Here are a few examples:

• I-35 and Loop 1604 in San Antonio: This intersection has been identified as one of the most dangerous in Texas due to its high traffic volume and numerous exits and entrances.
• US-183 and State Highway 71 in Austin: This intersection has been the site of numerous accidents over the years, many of which have been attributed to heavy traffic and poor road design.
• Beltway 8 and Westheimer Road in Houston: This busy intersection has been the site of many accidents, including fatal crashes, due to heavy traffic, high speeds, and driver distraction.
• North Central Expressway and Forest Lane in Dallas: This intersection has been identified as one of the most dangerous in Dallas due to its high traffic volume and complex design.
• US-281 and Loop 1604 in San Antonio: This intersection has been the site of numerous accidents over the years, many of which have been attributed to driver error, including speeding and failure to yield the right-of-way.

These are just a few examples of some of the most dangerous intersections in Texas. All drivers should exercise caution and follow traffic laws when approaching and navigating intersections to help prevent accidents and keep our roads safe.

What are the Deadliest Intersections in Texas?

Based on historical data and reports from local authorities, several intersections in Texas have been identified as particularly hazardous and have been the site of numerous fatal accidents over the years. Here are a few examples:

• Beltway 8 and Highway 288 in Houston: This busy intersection has been the site of many accidents, including fatal crashes, due to heavy traffic and high speeds.
• Interstate 35 and Loop 410 in San Antonio: This intersection has been identified as one of the most dangerous in San Antonio due to its high traffic volume and numerous exits and entrances.
• Interstate 20 and Cooper Street in Arlington: This intersection has been the site of numerous accidents over the years, many of which have been attributed to heavy traffic and driver distraction.
• US-83 and State Highway 52 in Wheeler County: This rural intersection has been the site of many fatal crashes over the years due to its high-speed limits and lack of safety features.
• US-75 and Walnut Hill Lane in Dallas: This intersection has been identified as one of the most dangerous in Dallas due to its high traffic volume and complex design.

Regardless of the specific intersections involved, all drivers must exercise caution and follow traffic laws when approaching and navigating intersections to help prevent accidents and keep our roads safe.

Intersection Accident Injury Claims Process

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries due to an intersection accident, it’s important to follow these steps to put yourself in the best position for a successful injury claim.

1. Seek Medical Attention
If you were involved in an accident and sustained injuries, seek medical attention immediately. Your health and safety should always be your top priority.

2. Document Scene & Injuries
Take photos of the accident scene and gather witness information if possible. Take photographs of any visible injuries and keep copies of all medical records and bills.

3. Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you believe that you have a valid accident claims, it’s important to consult an attorney who specializes in personal injury law and has intersection accident injury cases. They can advise you on the strength of your case and help you navigate the claims process.

4. File a Claim
If your attorney thinks you have a case, he or she can file a claim against the negligent party or parties involved in the accident. Don’t try and negotiate with the insurance company yourself. Leave all communication with the insurance companies to your attorney.

5. Trial:
If the insurance company doesn’t offer a fair settlement after negotiations, then we will take it to trial. We will represent you in court and fight to get you the maximum compensation.

Compensation for Intersection Accident Injuries

If you have been injured in an intersection accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

In Texas, if you are injured in an intersection accident, you can potentially recover three types of damages: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. These damages aim to compensate for different kinds of losses:

Economic Damages

Economic damages are also known as “compensatory” damages and are designed to compensate the injured party for quantifiable financial expenses related to the accident. Economic damages can cover:

• Medical expenses: This includes costs of hospitalization, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, and any other medical expenses related to the accident.
• Lost wages: If the accident victim is unable to work as a result of the injury, they can recover lost wages. If the victim is unable to return to work or must take a lower-paying job due to the injury, they might also recover future lost earning capacity.
• Property damage: This typically includes repairs or replacement of the victim’s vehicle, but can also cover other damaged property.

Non-Economic Damages

• Non-Economic Damages are also known as “general” damages, these aim to compensate for non-monetary losses that are more subjective and difficult to quantify. Non-economic damages can cover.
• Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the overall negative impact on the victim’s quality of life caused by the accident.
• Loss of consortium: This compensation is for the loss of companionship, affection, comfort, and sexual relations that a spouse or family member might suffer as a result of the accident.
• Mental anguish: If the accident caused significant trauma leading to psychological issues such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, the victim may receive compensation.

Punitive Damages

Also known as “exemplary” damages, punitive damages are meant to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future. In Texas, punitive damages can be awarded if the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious. They are not commonly awarded in car accident cases, unless the actions of the responsible party were especially egregious or intentional.

It’s important to consult with a Fort Worth intersection accident attorney for advice tailored to a specific situation. We can help.

Injured in an Intersection Accident in Fort Worth? Call us.

Intersection accidents can be devastating, but with the help of an experienced Fort Worth intersection accident attorney, you can hold negligent drivers accountable and recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life.

Don’t wait to seek legal representation if you or a loved one has been involved in an intersection accident. Contact Varghese Summersett Injury Law Group today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will listen to the facts and circumstances and determine if you have a valid claim.

If we take your case, we will work tirelessly to help you recover the compensation you deserve. Importantly, we will never add to your financial hardship. We work on contingency, which means we don’t get paid unless we win your case. Call 817-207-4878 or contact us online today.

FAQ: Fort Worth Intersection Accident Attorney