Photo by Daniel Halseth on Unsplash
Dallas is a sprawling city with an extensive metro area, so it’s not surprising to learn the area is also home to some accident-prone roads. In fact, Dallas highways are hotspots for vehicle crashes and this also applies to some city and neighborhood streets.
The high accident rate doesn’t mean foregoing driving and missing out on all the Texas city has to offer. From Dallas Cowboys football games to the Museum of Art and the city-sponsored scavenger hunt, there’s always something going on you don’t want to miss.
Instead of missing out on your favorite activities, you can take some steps to stay safe on the city’s roads.
Accident-Prone Roads in Dallas
The city is taking proactive steps to help reduce traffic accidents and fatality rates. One approach is the city’s Vision Zero project. The project’s goal is to eliminate traffic-related fatalities and reduce the number of vehicle accidents by half by 2030.
Meeting these goals isn’t going to be easy. Data released by the city’s government indicates around 36,000 car accidents occur yearly on Dallas roads.
So, what are some of the most dangerous roads to drive on in Dallas? The Vision Zero project releases an annual list that includes some familiar and high-traveled streets and freeways. Here’s a look at the latest list released by the project:
- Loop 12 between Jim Miller Road and U.S. 175
- Northwest Highway/Loop 12 from Walton Walker Boulevard to Harry Hines Boulevard
- Loop 12 from South Central Expressway to Pemberton Hill Road
- Storey Lane from the Irving city limit to Northwest Highway/Loop 12
- Ledbetter Drive from U.S. 35E to University Hills Boulevard
- Ledbetter Drive from South Lancaster Road to Loop 12
- Second Avenue from Elsie Faye Heggins Street to U.S. 175
- Corinth Street Road from Eighth Street to Stella Avenue
- Jim Miller Road from Scyene Road to Forney Road
Buckner Road also features prominently on the list. Some popular downtown streets are also more prone to vehicle accidents than others like Elm, Main, and Commerce Streets. Some thoroughfares are included, such as Grant Ave and Hampton Rd.
While you don’t need to avoid these roads, and sometimes it’s impossible, you should pay extra attention to your surroundings. Sometimes, being a cautious driver can prevent a traffic accident.
Who Is Liable for a Traffic Accident in Dallas
Sometimes, proving liability in a vehicle accident is relatively easy. Other times, it’s a little more difficult, like in a multi-car pileup. There are also times when the driver may not be the only responsible party. Here are some examples of accident liability:
- A driver is engaging in reckless driving behavior, which can include speeding, driving while intoxicated (under the influence), and distracted driving.
- A business/employer if an employer is in an accident while driving a company vehicle.
- Any individual who sells or serves alcohol to an intoxicated person or a minor. This behavior can also result in criminal charges against the seller or server. TABC laws typically apply when alcohol is a contributing factor in an auto accident.
- The automaker if a vehicle defect is the cause of the accident, which may apply even if the vehicle or defective part is currently under recall.
- Any contractor employed by the government or governmental employee who creates a hazardous road condition that leads to a vehicle accident.
There are occasions when multiple parties are liable for the accident. In this instance, your accident attorney may file a suit against one, some, or all of the at-fault parties. Since each vehicle accident case is unique, it’s always best to talk to an attorney before filing a case.
What You Can Claim in a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If you’re injured in a car accident in Dallas, you often have the right to seek compensation for your damages. The primary exception is if you’re the at-fault driver.
You can file for compensation to cover medical expenses relating to the injuries sustained in the accident, which can also include your medications, rehabilitation, and long-term care. You may also be able to claim some pre-existing conditions if they were worsened as a result of the accident.
Other claims you may be able to include in your lawsuit include:
- Expenses relating to property damage or vehicle replacement.
- If your injuries require modifications to your home, like making it wheelchair accessible.
- Lost wages if your injuries force you to miss work. If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may also be able to claim future earnings.
These are examples of economic damages typically included in a personal injury case. You may also be able to claim non-economic damages like pain, suffering, emotional distress, loss of life enjoyment, and loss of independence.
Punitive damages are something else to consider, but this doesn’t apply to every personal injury case. Punitive damages are designed to punish the offender and serve as a warning to others. Before including punitive damages in your claim, talk to an experienced accident attorney.
Personal Injury Cases Involving a Fatality
Unfortunately, a car accident can result in a fatality. As a surviving family member, you may be able to seek compensation for your loss. You’re not placing a dollar amount on your loved one’s life, but financial compensation can help with expenses.
If you decide to go forward with a lawsuit, you may be able to claim the following:
- Loss of financial support from the deceased, which typically only applies to spouses or close family members who rely on the deceased for financial support.
- Loss of the victim’s companionship
- Loss of the victim’s guidance and advice
- Emotional grief and anguish
- Any pain and/or suffering the victim may have felt before death
- Funeral expenses
- Property damage that occurred in the accident.
Before filing a lawsuit following the death of a loved one, talk to an attorney to see if you have a valid case.
Don’t Allow a Car Wreck to Impact the Rest of Your Life
If you find yourself involved in a car wreck, it’s imperative to consult with an attorney. Your attorney will not only collaborate closely with you to secure adequate compensation for your damages but also provide invaluable guidance through the complexities of the legal system.
Their expertise in negotiating with insurance companies and understanding of personal injury law will be instrumental in advocating for your rights and ensuring a fair resolution.
