Texas has more than 300,000 miles of roads (highest in the nation) and 18 million licensed drivers (second highest in the nation). With a large number of cars and trucks traversing such a wide expanse of roads, fatal traffic accidents are an unfortunate byproduct. In 2021, more than 4,500 people were killed on Texas roadways. While the Texas Department of Transportation has been working to improve traffic safety, fatality rates on certain state roads mark them as particularly dangerous.

The highways listed below consistently rank the highest in traffic deaths per road mile in the state:

• I-35E in Dallas – Stemmons Freeway
• I-35E in Dallas – Marvin Love Freeway
• TX 249 in Houston Tomball Parkway
• I-35 in Austin
• I-45 in Houston
• Linden B Johnson Freeway in Dallas
• TX 183 in Fort Worth
• I-10 in Houston
• I-20 in Dallas

The most common causes of traffic accidents are:

• Traffic density — Given the state’s vast size and the long distances between cities, one might assume that Texans drive much more than other Americans. However, fatal accidents are not evenly distributed throughout the state. The deadliest stretches of highway are all in or near busy major cities, where traffic is most dense.
• Driving while intoxicated — Some people drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Intoxication is a factor in nearly a quarter of all fatal traffic accidents in Texas.
• Distracted driving — Motorists do not always pay proper attention to the road. Drivers commonly use phones or other handheld electronic devices while moving. There are other potential sources of driver distraction, such as passengers, pets and the radio.
• Poor driving habits — Some people are just bad drivers. Speeding, unsafe lane changes, erratic braking and failing to signal all cause road accidents.
• Weather — Texas weather can be extreme and change rapidly. Conditions in most of the state are normally clear and dry. However, ice, fog, torrential rains and wind can suddenly make driving very hazardous.

Drivers should be particularly vigilant while traveling on the highways listed above. One must drive defensively. Pay close attention to the road, watch for other vehicles and obey the traffic laws. Only drive when well rested and never under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you are involved in a traffic accident contact a vehicle accident attorney at your first opportunity.

Hope & Causey in Conroe is one of suburban Houston’s most highly respected personal injury law firms. Our attorneys give every client the time, attention and guidance needed through each step of an accident claim to secure the best possible results. If you have been injured in a Texas road accident, feel free to contact us online or call 936-441-4673 for an initial consultation.