Houston Car Accident Statistics (2024 Updated)

Houston is one of the most populated cities in the entire state of Texas. With such a significant population and an extensive freeway system, Houston often deals with a considerable amount of car accidents, both fatal and nonfatal. When you combine constantly congested roadways with negligent, aggressive, and often distracted drivers, you get a dangerous combination that often results in a substantial amount of accidents. The Houston car accident statistics say as much.

Houston Car Accident Statistics

The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) primarily works to ensure people are driving correctly and safely. They monitor crash data from nearly every town and city in the entire state, promote education on safe driving, and help fund new studies and technologies that encourage road and highway improvement. Here are some of the car accident statistics gathered by TxDOT from the city of Houston:

In 2023, there were approximately 67,644 total car accidents in the Houston area. Of that number, there were approximately 274 fatal car crashes and 290 fatalities in those accidents. There were about 1,360 suspected serious car accidents, as well as 1,612 suspected serious injuries in those accidents. There were about 5,451 suspected minor car accidents, as well as 7,558 suspected minor injuries in those accidents.

Of the total 67,644 car accidents in Houston in 2023, there were approximately 22,367 possible injuries. Of the total number of car accidents in Houston in 2023, there were 42,639 non-injury crashes. Of those crashes, there were approximately 127,660 non-injuries in those crashes.

Statute of Limitations

If you are in a car accident and wish to pursue legal action against the party responsible for causing the accident, it is important that you pay attention to the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in the state of Texas, including car accident claims. Generally, the state will give you two years to establish grounds for your claim, develop a strong case, gather the necessary evidence you need, consult with an injury lawyer, and file a claim for damages.

If you are not able to file your claim before two years have passed, there is a good chance that your case will be dismissed outright, your claim will be denied, and your chance to seek damages from your accident will pass by with no legal action taken. Building a strong injury case can take more time than you may think, so you should start as soon as you can. If you are worried that your case isn’t strong enough, you should take your concerns to an injury lawyer.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in Houston

Houston is a major metropolitan city, and car accidents happen every day. Some causes of car accidents are more common than others, with negligence and bad road conditions being two of the primary causes.

Here are some of the frequent causes of car accidents in Houston:

• Negligent Driving: Any driver who fails to obey traffic laws may be guilty of negligent driving. Negligent drivers consistently commit moving violations and put other drivers in jeopardy. Negligence includes disobeying traffic signals, nearly hitting pedestrians, ignoring crosswalks, making illegal turns, weaving through traffic, changing lanes without signaling, and more.
• Distracted Driving: Distracted driving remains one of the most common causes of car accidents in the entire country. Any behavior that causes you to take your eyes off the road even for a second may be considered a distraction. This includes talking on the phone, texting, eating and drinking, adjusting the radio, adjusting your GPS, applying makeup, talking to other passengers, and engaging in road rage.

Houston Car Accident Statistics FAQs

Q: How Many Car Accidents Happen in Houston, Texas?

A: Houston has more car accidents than any other major city in the state of Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, there were over 67,000 car accidents in Houston in 2023 alone. That averages out to about 185 car accidents per day. Nearly 300 of those accidents resulted in fatal injuries.

Q: What Is the Number One Cause of Car Crashes in Houston?

A: There are many different causes of car crashes in Houston. One of the most common ones is speeding. Texas has several highways with very high speed limits. Speeding in those areas can result in serious accidents with significant injuries. Distracted driving and drunk driving also contribute to many accidents. It is important for all drivers to remain alert and aware when on the road.

Q: Which Freeway in Houston Has the Most Accidents?

A: One of the freeways in Houston that sees a lot of car accidents is I-45, also called the Gulf Freeway. This is one of the most accident-prone highways in the entire country. It sees frequent accidents due to constant heavy traffic, construction zones, and reckless driving. The Gulf Freeway is one of Houston’s many busy highways.

Q: How Much Does a Car Accident Lawyer Cost in Houston?

A: The cost of a car accident lawyer in Houston can vary depending on a multitude of different factors. One of the most important factors to consider is the complexity and severity of the accident. Additionally, you should consider the lawyer’s location, experience level, and fee structure. Some lawyers charge a contingency fee, some may charge an hourly fee, and some may charge a flat fee for their services.

Reach Out to a Car Accident Lawyer Today

Being in a car accident in Houston can be an overwhelming experience. It can feel good to have someone on your side who understands the stakes and can provide you with consistent legal advice. A good car accident lawyer can provide you with options and give you assurance that your case is in good hands.

At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, our legal team understands the kind of legal help you need after dealing with a car accident in Houston. We can help you put together a strong case, gather the evidence you need, and protect your interests. Contact us today to speak with a member of our experienced legal team.