Houston Ranks 19th Globally for Traffic Congestion
Anyone who’s ever driven in Houston knows the challenges the city’s traffic poses on major highways and roads. Key arteries like the Katy Freeway (I-10), the Southwest Freeway (I-69), the North Freeway (I-45), and the West Loop (I-610) are notorious for their heavy traffic and frequent congestion.
While these thoroughfares are essential for commuting and traveling across the city, they also see a high number of car accidents due to traffic congestion. Other notable roads, such as the Hardy Toll Road and the Grand Parkway (TX-99), are also common sites for traffic incidents.
According to a report by INRIX, which the Houston Chronicle referenced in a recent article, Houston has been ranked 19th globally for traffic congestion. This dubious honor highlights the increasing challenges drivers face in the city as they navigate through crowded roads and frequent gridlocks.
The growing problem of traffic congestion in Houston, TX
The INRIX report reveals that overall traffic congestion in Houston is now 1% greater than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Despite changes in work schedules and commuting habits, the city’s traffic woes continue to grow.
John Bond, a local commuter, told the Houston Chronicle, “I do not know anyone, not a single person, who thinks it is getting better.”
This sentiment echoes the frustration of many Houstonians as they face longer and more unpredictable travel times.
Key findings from the INRIX report
Several key points from the INRIX report highlight the nature and extent of Houston’s traffic issues:
Increased travel time
Houston drivers lost an average of 62 hours to traffic congestion last year, equivalent to over two and a half days of time that could have been spent elsewhere. This congestion costs local drivers approximately $1,082 annually in wasted time and fuel.
Long commutes
Houston ranks high among cities with the longest commuting distances, averaging about 9.5 miles per trip. This is longer than the average commute in New York, Los Angeles, and Boston.
Improved yet persistent congestion
While congestion in early 2023 dropped slightly by 1%, this pales in comparison to the more significant reductions seen in other major global cities like New York and London.
Traffic congestion and car accident claims
Increased congestion often leads to more accidents, ranging from minor fender-benders to severe collisions that result in serious injuries. Here are some common legal issues related to traffic congestion:
Accident liability
With more cars on the road, determining fault in an accident can become more complex. Multiple factors, such as distracted driving, speeding, and road rage, can contribute to collisions when there is a lot of traffic, and in some cases, there may be more than one liable party for a serious wreck.
Injuries and damages
Traffic accidents in congested areas often result in significant injuries, from broken bones and neck injuries to spinal cord damage and traumatic brain injuries. Victims may face long recovery periods, mounting medical bills, lost wages, and other losses related to the crash.
Complex insurance claims
Navigating insurance claims after an accident in a congested area can be challenging. Insurance companies might dispute liability or the extent of damages, and in multi-car pileups, determining fault and pursuing compensation can be challenging for crash victims.
Our Houston car accident lawyers are here to help
Houston’s ranking as the 19th most congested city globally stresses the need for drivers to remain vigilant and practice safe driving habits. However, no matter how careful you may be when behind the wheel, accidents caused by other drivers can still happen.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Houston, TX, the experienced attorneys at Smith & Hassler are here to protect your rights and aggressively advocate for your best interests. Our dedicated legal team can assist with the following:
Investigating the crash
We conduct thorough investigations to determine the cause of the accident and establish liability.
Handling insurance claims
Our attorneys negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries and other related expenses.
Providing legal representation
If necessary, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for the justice you deserve.
Our law firm understands what it takes to obtain meaningful results for our clients. For instance, in one case, we obtained $800,000 for a client who suffered back, neck, and shoulder injuries in an intersection accident. Before filing suit, the insurance company’s offer was approximately $45,000.
Shift your case into overdrive and find out how an experienced car accident attorney in Houston, TX, can help you. Contact us today for a free consultation.