Texas has many metropolitan areas that are constantly growing and expanding. Throughout the major hubs in Texas, there are many construction projects that pose unique dangers to drivers. These construction zones can have road hazards that result in significant car accidents. Getting into a car accident in a construction zone is often accompanied by a complex claim process, as there are a variety of parties that can be held liable for the accident, such as the construction company or the city itself.
Navigating liability in construction zone accidents can be challenging, which is why it’s best to seek legal counsel from a trusted Texas car accident attorney. At Sutliff & Stout, our skilled personal injury lawyers can assist you in navigating the complexities of your case and help ensure you receive compensation for any accident-related injuries. Here is some important information to know about construction zone accidents in Texas.
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What to Know About Liability and Determining Fault in Texas
In Texas, individuals can be held liable for injuries caused in an accident if their negligence was the direct cause of the crash. For example, if a person’s choice to drive above the speed limit or change lanes in an unsafe manner resulted in an accident, they will likely be found as the at-fault party.
Texas uses a comparative negligence system when determining fault, meaning multiple parties can be found to have contributed to the accident and be assigned varying percentages of fault. For example, if a car was driving above the speed limit, but you ignored the right of way, it’s likely that some level of the fault will be assigned to both you and the other driver.
How Fault Affects Compensation in Texas Car Accidents
The percentage you are determined to be at fault in the accident can affect the compensation you are eligible for. In fact, to be eligible to pursue compensation, you must be found to be less than 50% responsible for the accident. The percentage of fault you are determined to have contributed to the accident will directly reduce the amount of compensation you can secure. For example, if the jury determines you were 20% responsible for the accident, your total compensation will be reduced by 20%. This principle makes it essential to have a trusted attorney on your side to help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Construction Zone Accident?
As with most accidents, there are a variety of parties who can contribute to an accident and be found liable. In construction zone accidents, here are some of the parties that can be found liable for the accident.
Construction Companies
Construction zones must have signs that display reduced speed limit requirements, lane changes, and other important commands. If these signs fail or are placed in unsafe positions and cause an accident, then the construction company responsible for installing these signs can be held liable.
Government Entities
If a construction zone is handled by the local or state government, they may be held liable for some of the blame in a construction zone accident.
Other Drivers
Just like any other accident, other drivers can be found liable for the accident if their actions contributed to the crash. If other drivers were found to be engaging in actions such as texting, talking on the phone, or other distracted driving behaviors, they can be held liable.
If you have been involved in a construction zone car accident, the best way to ensure all parties are held liable is to work with a skilled Texas personal injury lawyer. An experienced attorney can look at all the factors surrounding your case and identify all negligent entities.
Contact the Lawyers at Sutliff & Stout for Assistance with Your Personal Injury Claim
When you or a close friend or family member incurs any damages in a car accident, it can be a stressful experience. The best way to reduce the stress of the claims process and ensure all negligent parties are held liable is to work with a skilled personal injury lawyer. At Sutliff & Stout, our knowledgeable lawyers have the skills and expertise to help ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages. Our firm has been recognized as one of the top personal injury law firms in Houston, and our team has helped thousands of individuals with their car accident claims.
If you are looking to discuss your car accident case with a personal injury lawyer, the team at Sutliff & Stout is here to help. Call us today at (713) 987-7111 or contact us online to discuss your injury or car accident claim.
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