Laws and Regulations

When it comes to car accidents, understanding Texas laws and regulations is essential. Car accidents are governed by state-specific laws designed to protect the public and ensure that drivers are held accountable for their actions. In the event of an accident, it’s crucial to determine whether the at-fault driver breached these regulations to establish liability and seek compensation.

Texas Car Accident Laws

In Texas, all drivers are required to carry liability insurance, which provides coverage if they are responsible for an accident. The minimum liability coverage limits in Texas are:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person,
• $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident, and
• $25,000 for property damage.

These minimum limits are often referred to as 30/60/25 coverage. While these amounts are required by law, they may not be sufficient to cover the full extent of injuries or damages in serious accidents. In such cases, it’s important to work with a skilled attorney to pursue additional compensation from the responsible party’s assets or through other legal means.

Driving Regulations in Texas

Texas has strict laws aimed at reducing accidents and protecting road users. Some of the key regulations include:

• Speed limits: Drivers must adhere to posted speed limits, which vary depending on the road type and area. Speeding is a major cause of accidents and can result in fines, points on your license, and increased liability in the event of a collision.
• Seat belts: Texas law mandates that all passengers in a vehicle wear seat belts. Failing to do so not only increases the risk of injury but can also impact the outcome of a personal injury claim.
• Distracted driving: Texas bans the use of handheld devices while driving. Texting, calling, or using a smartphone while behind the wheel is considered a form of distracted driving and can lead to accidents.

Fatigued and Impaired Driving Regulations

Drivers in Texas are expected to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly. Fatigued or impaired driving is a significant cause of car accidents, and Texas law prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

• Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) limits: In Texas, the legal BAC limit for drivers is 0.08%. Drivers found to be over this limit can face charges of driving while intoxicated (DWI).
• Fatigued driving: While there is no specific law for driving while fatigued, accidents caused by drowsy drivers are subject to the same liability rules as other negligent actions. Fatigued drivers may exhibit erratic behavior, such as swerving, inconsistent speeds, and delayed reaction times, increasing the likelihood of an accident.

How to Determine If a Driver Violated Texas Car Accident Laws

After a car accident, it’s essential to determine if the at-fault driver violated any Texas traffic laws or driving regulations. Common signs of negligence include:

• Speeding or driving too fast for road conditions
• Failing to obey traffic signals, such as running red lights or stop signs
• Using a phone or being otherwise distracted while driving
• Driving while fatigued or impaired

If you observe any of these behaviors, it’s important to gather as much evidence as possible, including photos, witness statements, and police reports, to support your claim.

Texas Driver’s License Requirements

To legally drive in Texas, all drivers must possess a valid driver’s license and meet specific age, residency, and knowledge requirements. New drivers must pass a written exam, a driving test, and vision screening to obtain their license. Texas also has a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program for teen drivers, which imposes restrictions on when and with whom they can drive to reduce accidents among young drivers.

Weight Limits and Regulations for Commercial Vehicles in Texas

While personal vehicles are not subject to the same weight regulations as commercial trucks, overloading a vehicle with passengers or cargo can still impact its safety and performance. Drivers of personal vehicles must ensure that their vehicle is properly loaded and maintained to avoid accidents caused by mechanical failures or impaired vehicle control.

Accidents Caused by Violations of Texas Car Accident Laws and Regulations

Texas laws and regulations are designed to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians from accidents. When a driver violates these rules and causes an accident, they may be held liable for the resulting damages. If you have been injured in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you have the right to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.

How The Dashner Law Firm Can Help

Navigating the legal process after a car accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to minimize your compensation. The Dashner Law Firm has extensive experience handling car accident claims in Texas, and their dedicated team of attorneys will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to. Here’s how they can assist:

1. Thorough Investigation: The Dashner Law Firm will conduct a comprehensive investigation of your case, gathering evidence to build a strong claim that proves the other party’s negligence.
2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle for less than you deserve. The Dashner Law Firm is skilled in negotiating with insurers to secure a fair settlement for your injuries and damages.
3. Litigation Support: If a settlement cannot be reached, The Dashner Law Firm will represent you in court, using their deep knowledge of Texas car accident laws to fight for maximum compensation.
4. Personalized Attention: The Dashner Law Firm understands that every car accident case is unique. They provide personalized legal counsel, ensuring that your specific needs are addressed throughout the legal process.
5. No Upfront Fees: The Dashner Law Firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case, giving you peace of mind while they handle the complexities of your claim.