National Traffic Awareness Month in August Encourages Safer Driving Habits
August is National Traffic Awareness Month, and road safety experts are sounding the alarm on the importance of safe driving habits to prevent car accidents both in the U.S. and worldwide.
“National Traffic Awareness Month aims to shed light on the safety rules that can help prevent major or minor accidents from taking place,” according to a National Today news story about the annual event.
This message is especially critical for Houston and the rest of Texas, where car accident fatalities continue to be a significant concern. But just how severe is the situation in Houston and Texas? Why are there so many crashes in these areas? And what can drivers do to make the roads safer? The Houston car accident attorneys at Smith & Hassler explain.
Car accidents are a problem in Texas
According to the most recent statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), 4,283 people lost their lives in motor vehicle crashes statewide in 2023. While this number is 2.8% lower than the 4,407 fatalities recorded in 2022, it remains alarmingly high.
Despite this slight decline, Texas residents should remain vigilant. The death toll in 2023 is still among the highest ever recorded in the state, marking the third consecutive year with more than 4,000 fatalities from car crashes.
How bad are car crashes in Houston?
Car accident fatalities remain a serious concern in the Houston area. In 2022, a total of 558 people died in car accidents in Harris County, which includes Houston, according to the most recent accident data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Although the 2022 figure is slightly lower than the 576 fatalities recorded in 2021, it still indicates a troubling trend. Both years represent a significant increase from earlier periods. For instance, in 2018, Harris County had 388 car accident fatalities.
Common causes
Car accidents in Texas are alarmingly frequent, with several common contributing factors responsible for the vast majority of these incidents:
- Speeding: Speeding significantly increases the risk and severity of car accidents. In 2022, speeding drivers were responsible for 34.5% of car accident fatalities in Texas, accounting for 1,521 deaths. Speeding reduces the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, increases stopping distances, and results in more severe impacts during a crash.
- Drunk Driving: Drunk driving remains a leading cause of car accident deaths in Texas. In 2023, it was responsible for 1,090 fatalities. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, making drunk drivers a significant danger on the road.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving resulted in 403 fatalities in Texas in 2023. Common distractions include texting, talking on the phone, eating, and using in-car technologies. Distracted drivers are less likely to notice and react to road hazards, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Not Wearing a Seatbelt: In 2023, not wearing a seatbelt accounted for 48.8% of car accident fatalities in Texas. Seatbelts are one of the most effective ways to prevent injuries and fatalities in a crash. They keep occupants securely in place, reducing the risk of being thrown from the vehicle.
Safe driving tips
During National Traffic Awareness Month, road safety advocates offer valuable suggestions to prevent car accidents and make roads safer. Here are some actions drivers can take:
- Stay Focused on the Road: Road safety experts emphasize the importance of keeping your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and mind on driving. Avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving.
- Follow the Rules of the Road: Adhering to traffic laws is crucial for maintaining order and safety on the roads. This includes obeying speed limits, stopping at red lights and stop signs, and yielding the right of way when required.
- Commit to Safe Driving Practices: Drivers should pledge to avoid speeding, aggressive driving, and other dangerous behaviors. This commitment involves being patient, courteous, and responsible behind the wheel.
Protect your rights if you’ve been injured in a crash
Think you don’t need a lawyer if another driver was responsible for your car accident? Think again. Many car accidents quickly turn into complicated legal cases. The at-fault driver might deny responsibility, or insurance companies might refuse to pay you the compensation you deserve.
No matter the circumstances, our Houston car accident lawyers at Smith & Hassler can help you navigate the challenges of your case. With years of experience and proven results, including a $1.38 million settlement for a motor vehicle accident in Texas, we know how to fight for your rights.
Get the Texas law firm that means business. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation with a Houston car accident attorney you can count on in a crisis. We have four offices conveniently located throughout Texas, including three in Houston. Plus, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we secure a financial settlement or verdict for your claim.