Houston Personal Injury Attorneys – Smith & Hassler

A tragic helicopter crash in Houston’s Second Ward has left the community grieving as authorities continue investigating the cause of the deadly accident. The crash, which occurred on October 20, 2024, claimed the lives of four people, including a child. As details emerge, questions are being raised about the aviation obstruction lights on the radio tower that the helicopter struck.

A History of Safety Issues with the Tower

According to reports from ABC13, the radio tower at Engelke Street and Ennis Street has a troubling history of its aviation obstruction lights not functioning. These lights are essential safety measures designed to prevent collisions by making towers visible to pilots, especially in poor visibility conditions. In the case of this crash, it is alleged that the red flashing lights on the tower had not been working for days prior to the accident, despite being reported to the FAA on October 17.

The lack of proper lighting is a significant concern, as the helicopter crashed directly into the tower. The pilot, operating an air tour flight, would have relied heavily on those lights to navigate safely around the structure. Initial surveillance footage shows that one of the tower’s lights may have been operational, but whether the lighting was fully functional remains unclear.

Legal Implications of Negligence

When safety systems such as aviation obstruction lights fail, it raises serious concerns about negligence and liability. If it is confirmed that the lights were not in full working order at the time of the crash, those responsible for maintaining the tower and ensuring its safety could potentially face legal accountability.

Aviation accidents are subject to thorough investigations by agencies like the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and any evidence of negligence can lead to liability for the victims’ injuries and wrongful deaths.

Families impacted by this tragic incident may have grounds to pursue legal claims if it is proven that the tower’s lights were not properly maintained. Under Texas law, property owners and those responsible for maintaining critical infrastructure like radio towers may be held liable for any accidents caused by a failure to uphold safety standards.

Holding Responsible Parties Accountable

At Smith & Hassler, we understand the devastating impact that accidents like this can have on families and communities. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to investigating cases of negligence and holding responsible parties accountable.

Whether it involves an aviation accident, a workplace injury, or another catastrophic event, we are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Contact Smith & Hassler for Legal Help

Catastrophic accidents such as the one on October 20 often involve complex legal and regulatory issues, and having an experienced attorney on your side can make all the difference in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

If you or someone you love has been harmed as a result of another party’s negligence, contact Smith & Hassler today to schedule a free and confidential consultation with our legal team. We are here to support you through this difficult time and will work tirelessly to seek justice for you and your family.

A recent study revealed the most hazardous intersections in Houston for children walking or biking to school, according to an ABC 13 News report. The research, conducted by Rice University’s Baker Institute, analyzed pedestrian accident data to identify high-risk areas for young pedestrians.

Top dangerous intersections in Houston for pedestrians

The Baker Institute’s study reviewed 629 accidents involving children and vehicles in Houston from 2018 to 2023. These accidents resulted in 159 serious injuries and 21 fatalities. Based on this data, the researchers highlighted four intersections as especially dangerous:

• Alief – Beechnut Street near Wilcrest Drive
• Gulfton – Glenmont Drive from Renwick Drive to Royalton Street
• Sunnyside – The Sunnyside Square Mile
• Gulfton – Hillcroft Avenue

What makes these intersections so hazardous?

The study uncovered several factors contributing to the danger at these intersections:

• Unsignalized driveways near busy intersections
• Wide streets with up to seven lanes
• Fast-moving traffic
• Pedestrians crossing streets between intersections
• Crosswalks on high-speed roads without traffic lights
• High rates of drunk driving in certain areas
• Longer travel distances to hospitals after pedestrian accidents

What can Houston do to improve pedestrian safety?

Researchers at the Baker Institute proposed several solutions to reduce pedestrian accidents, especially those involving children:

• Build or improve sidewalks on dangerous streets: Many areas in Houston lack proper sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk alongside busy roads. By constructing new sidewalks and upgrading existing ones, the city can provide safe, dedicated spaces for pedestrians, reducing the risk of accidents. Proper sidewalks also ensure that pedestrians, especially children, aren’t forced into traffic or unsafe areas.
• Install more visible crosswalks: Crosswalks are critical for pedestrian safety, but they must be easy for drivers to see. The study recommends installing well-marked, highly visible crosswalks, ideally equipped with signs, reflective paint, or lighting. Enhanced crosswalks make drivers more aware of pedestrians crossing, especially in high-traffic areas or near schools.
• Lower speed limits on streets prone to speeding-related accidents: Speeding is one of the leading causes of pedestrian accidents, especially in areas where drivers don’t expect pedestrians. Reducing speed limits on roads with high pedestrian activity forces drivers to slow down and pay more attention, giving them more time to react to pedestrians. Lower speed limits also reduce the severity of injuries if an accident does occur.
• Increase police enforcement in high-risk areas: Enforcing traffic laws, such as speeding and failing to yield to pedestrians, can significantly reduce accidents. Increased police presence in areas known for frequent pedestrian incidents serves as a deterrent for reckless driving. This includes targeting distracted or impaired drivers who are more likely to cause serious pedestrian injuries.
• Educate drivers about the dangers pedestrians, especially children, face: Public awareness campaigns can help drivers understand the unique risks pedestrians face. By educating the public about the importance of slowing down in pedestrian-heavy areas, yielding at crosswalks, and watching for children, Houston can encourage safer driving habits and reduce accidents.

These changes would benefit all pedestrians, not just children, and are crucial as Houston continues to have one of the highest pedestrian accident rates in the country.

How common are pedestrian accidents in Houston?

Houston has become one of the most dangerous cities for pedestrians. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), in 2022, there were 115 pedestrian fatalities in the city, an 8% increase from the previous year. Harris County, which includes Houston, recorded 177 pedestrian deaths in 2022, the highest number in five years.

Why you need a Houston pedestrian accident attorney

Pedestrian accidents in Houston may seem straightforward, with a driver often at fault. However, getting the compensation you deserve isn’t always easy. In Texas’ fault-based insurance system, securing a fair settlement often requires legal help. Insurance companies frequently try to minimize payouts, making it difficult for victims to get the money they need for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.

That’s when an experienced Houston pedestrian accident lawyer at Smith & Hassler can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. Our dedicated legal team knows Texas law inside and out. We fight to get results for our clients, including securing an $800,000 settlement for a pedestrian injured in an intersection accident.

Let us help you. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We have four offices across Texas, including three in Houston. You pay nothing unless we win your case.