Texas car accidents can occur for a variety of different reasons, but studies have shown that a vast majority of those reasons fall under one category: driver error. When you become a licensed driver in Texas, you implicitly agree to follow all traffic laws and operate your vehicle responsibly and with reasonable care. A breach of this duty of care is referred to as driver negligence. Here are a few of the most common forms of driver negligence that cause car accidents.
Driving too fast for the road conditions
Many drivers assume that if they follow the posted speed limit, they are abiding by the law. However, this is not always the case. Even a driver who is abiding by the speed limit can be negligent and liable for an accident in certain situations. For example, a driver is expected to slow down and drive below the speed limit when there is poor visibility, bad weather, poor road conditions or heavy traffic.
Drowsy driving
Many people’s busy lives prohibit them from getting their recommended seven to nine hours of sleep per night. As a result, falling asleep behind the wheel or drowsy driving has led to many car accidents. Drowsy drivers, much like drunk drivers, often have slowed reaction times and an inability to make good decisions.
Failing to stop or yield
Drivers are required to keep a proper lookout, follow all traffic signals and signs, and yield to oncoming traffic. When a driver fails to stop at a stop sign, merges into traffic without looking, or fails to yield at an intersection, it is very possible that the driver could cause an accident.
These are just some of the common forms of driver negligence. There are many more forms of driver negligence that can cause a car accident. If you have been involved in an accident, it is likely that at least one driver is responsible for the accident due to their own negligence. A personal injury attorney can help you determine who is at fault for your accident and hold them liable for damages.