Undefeated Houston Car Accident Lawyers
The roads and highways crisscrossing the City of Houston grew increasingly dangerous last year.
In fact, according to the latest statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation, Houston car accidents claimed a total of 345 lives in 2024, the highest ever recorded.
The 2024 total exceeds Houston’s previous traffic fatality record of 295 set in 2021.
What’s Known About Houston Car Accident Deaths
While busy freeways were the site of some of Houston’s deadliest car accidents, the majority of traffic deaths – 230 – reported in 2024 occurred on roads with speed limits of 50 mph or less. About a third – 140 – occurred on a street with a speed limit of either 30 or 35 mph. In most cases, fatal crashes were clustered where both high traffic volume and high speeds are common.
In addition to vehicle occupants, the Houston car accident deaths recorded in 2024 also included eight bicyclists – the fewest since 2019 – and 119 pedestrians. More than half of the pedestrian fatalities occurred on roads with a speed limit of 45 mph or higher.
“I think that there’s a lack of awareness on this topic,” Peter Eccles, the director of policy and planning for LINK Houston, told Houston Public Radio. “Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between those corners is a legal crosswalk, whether it’s marked or not. And in a crosswalk, the Texas Transportation Code says that you have the right-of-way as a pedestrian.”
Leading Contributors to Houston Car Accidents
What’s behind Houston’s high rate of car accident deaths? While there’s no single answer, the most recent report from Vision Zero pointed to a combination of urban design, driver behavior, and even state policies that make its roads particularly dangerous.
Sprawling Layout and High-Speed Roads
Houston’s urban design prioritizes vehicles over pedestrians and public transit, with wide, high-speed roads cutting through the city. Major thoroughfares like I-45, I-10, and the Sam Houston Tollway are designed for fast travel, but even arterial roads within the city often have speed limits of 45 mph or higher. The combination of high speeds, frequent lane changes, and heavy congestion increases the likelihood of deadly crashes.
Dangerous Intersections and Poor Road Design
Houston has some of the most hazardous intersections in Texas. Wide, multi-lane crossings, inadequate pedestrian infrastructure, and poor visibility make them deadly for both drivers and pedestrians. Some intersections, such as the junctions along Westheimer Road, have high rates of collisions due to confusing traffic patterns and short signal cycles that encourage risky behavior.
Lack of Reliable Public Transportation
Houston’s public transit system is limited in reach and reliability, so most residents rely on personal vehicles. With fewer people using buses or rail systems, more cars are on the road, leading to congestion, aggressive driving, and higher crash rates. Additionally, the absence of safe, convenient alternatives forces pedestrians and cyclists onto roads that aren’t designed for their safety.
Aggressive and Reckless Driving
Houston is notorious for aggressive drivers who speed and weave through traffic. High speeds are a major factor in crash severity, and Houston consistently ranks among the worst cities for speeding-related fatalities. Reckless behavior such as tailgating, sudden lane changes, and street racing—often exacerbated by the city’s long, straight roads—further increases the risk of fatal accidents.
Drunk and Impaired Driving
Texas has one of the highest rates of drunk driving fatalities in the country, and Houston is no exception. The city’s nightlife and lack of late-night public transportation options contribute to a high number of intoxicated drivers on the road. Drug impairment, including prescription medications and marijuana, has also become a growing concern in traffic fatalities.
Distracted Driving
With Houston’s long commutes and stop-and-go traffic, many drivers turn to their phones, leading to a high rate of distracted driving accidents. Despite Texas’ laws against texting while driving, enforcement remains inconsistent, and many drivers continue to use their phones behind the wheel. This behavior significantly increases reaction times and crash risks.
Lack of Pedestrian and Cyclist Infrastructure
Houston’s roads are overwhelmingly designed for vehicles, with little thought given to pedestrian and bicycle safety. Many areas lack sidewalks, crosswalks, or bike lanes, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share space with cars. This makes non-motorists especially vulnerable, and pedestrian deaths have been rising in recent years.
Weather Conditions
Frequent rainstorms, as well as occasional snow and icy conditions, can make driving in Houston even more hazardous. Poor drainage can lead to hydroplaning, while heavy storms reduce visibility and increase the likelihood of collisions. The city’s heat also contributes to tire blowouts and mechanical failures, which can lead to deadly accidents.
Inconsistent Law Enforcement
Traffic laws in Houston are not always strictly enforced, leading to widespread violations such as speeding, running red lights, and failing to yield. In 2019, red-light cameras were banned in Texas, which has increased intersection crashes. Without strong deterrents, many drivers continue to engage in dangerous behaviors.
Policies That Favor Drivers Over Safety
Texas policies often prioritize free-flowing traffic over safety measures. For example, speed limits are frequently raised to accommodate traffic flow rather than reduced to improve safety. Additionally, lax vehicle inspection requirements mean that many cars on the road have faulty brakes, worn tires, or other safety issues that contribute to fatal crashes.
Staying Safe on Houston’s Dangerous Roads and Highways
While Houston’s roads and highways are obviously dangerous, there are many steps motorists, cyclists, and even pedestrians can take to reduce the potential for tragedy:
For Motorists
- Obey Speed Limits and Traffic Laws: Speeding increases the severity of crashes and reduces reaction time. Follow posted speed limits, especially in high-risk areas like school zones and intersections.
- Avoid Distractions: Put away your phone and stay focused on the road. Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents and can have deadly consequences.
- Never Drive Under the Influence: Impaired driving is a major cause of fatal crashes in Houston. If you drink, arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation.
- Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists: Many streets in Houston lack adequate infrastructure for pedestrians and cyclists, so always yield at crosswalks and check for cyclists before turning or changing lanes.
- Be Cautious in Severe Weather: Heavy rain and flooding create hazardous road conditions. Slow down, turn on headlights, and avoid driving through high water.
For Pedestrians
- Use Crosswalks and Obey Signals: Always cross at designated crosswalks and wait for the appropriate signal. Crossing mid-block or against traffic signals significantly increases the risk of being hit.
- Make Yourself Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night. Many pedestrian accidents occur in low-light conditions when drivers have difficulty seeing people on foot.
- Stay Alert and Avoid Distractions. Don’t look at your phone while crossing the street. Be aware of your surroundings. Drivers may not always yield the right of way.
- Walk Facing Traffic if No Sidewalk is Available: If you must walk along a road without sidewalks, walk against traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles and react if necessary.
For Cyclists
- Ride in the Same Direction as Traffic: Always ride with the flow of traffic, not against it. This makes you more predictable to drivers and reduces the risk of head-on collisions.
- Use Bike Lanes When Available: Houston has a growing network of bike lanes—use them whenever possible. If riding on the road, stay as far to the right as safely possible.
- Wear a Helmet and Use Lights at Night: A helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head injuries. Use front and rear lights after dark to ensure you’re visible to drivers.
- Follow Traffic Laws: Cyclists must follow the same traffic laws as drivers. Stop at red lights and stop signs, use hand signals when turning, and be mindful of right-of-way rules.
Houston Car Accident Lawyers: Call 1-888-603-3636 for a Free Consultation
Our Houston Car Accident Lawyers have recovered Billions for our clients, including Record-Breaking Verdicts and Settlements for crash victims in Texas and across the United States, ensuring they and their families receive the maximum compensation possible for all of their injuries and losses.
If you or a loved one suffered a serious or fatal injury in a Houston car crash, our attorneys are here to help. Call 1-888-603-3636 or Click Here to send us a confidential email through our Contact Form.
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Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Houston
2700 Post Oak Blvd #1000, Houston, TX 77056
(888) 603-3636
29.73890263937774, -95.4612824423294
Open 24 hours
Zehl & Associates Injury & Accident Lawyers – Midland
306 W Wall St Suite 701, Midland, TX 79701
(432) 220-0000
31.99827039117601, -102.07752974593966
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