Most Dangerous Highways in Austin
More than 3,700 people die on Texas roads and highways every year, according to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Austin is among the most dangerous areas to drive in in Texas. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, Austin has seen tremendous population growth over the last decade. This has led to more vehicles on the highways. This creates plenty of congestion on highways throughout the city.
If you have been hurt in a car accident in Austin that was caused by another party, the skilled and compassionate lawyers at Loewy Law Firm are prepared to help. We know how difficult the aftermath of a car accident can be. Our committed legal team will work hard to hold the at-fault party or parties accountable and fight for the maximum financial compensation you deserve. Call now for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Here are the most dangerous highways in Austin:
I-35
Interstate 35 stretches 400 miles across Texas. I-35 has the most congested stretch of any highway in the state. According to researchers at Texas A&M University’s Transportation Institute, I-35’s stretch from US-290 to Texas 71 is the busiest freeway in Texas. One study found that for every mile of road in I-35’s stretch through Austin, motorists lose 1,647,353 hours to traffic delays. During rush hour, it takes almost three times longer to travel on the interstate than during free-flowing traffic.
In addition to congestion, road construction is a common site on I-35. If motorists are driving while distracted, accidents can occur, which may even lead to a multi-vehicle pileup.
US-290
US-290 is an east–west highway that is the main thoroughfare between Houston and Austin. Its westernmost part is near Segovia, and it stretches east all the way to Houston. US-290 sees heavy traffic in Austin. Many people speed too, which increases the danger.
State Highway 71
State Highway 71 is 253 miles long. In Austin, the highway is better known as Ben White Boulevard. Sections have been opening regularly over the last 25 years. The freeway runs by the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Traffic can get especially heavy near the airport and is the site of many accidents.
Highway 183
U.S. Route 183 is a north-south highway that begins in Refugio, Texas, and runs through many small towns, with Austin being the only large metro area along its route. Highway 183 is one of the highest-reporting roadways for severe accidents.
Mopac / Loop 1
Loop 1, commonly referred to as “Mopac,” is a freeway that provides access to the west side of Austin. This freeway sees heavy congestion during rush hours times. Rear-end collisions are common.
What To Do If You’re Involved In a Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident on one of Austin’s dangerous highways, we strongly recommend you take the following steps:
Call the police. Even if it seems like there are no severe injuries, you should always call the police if you are involved in an accident. A police report will likely be needed when you file an insurance claim. All the vehicles involved in the accident should stay where they are if possible.
Exchange information. Get the names, numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are passengers, obtain that information from them. It’s critical that you do not claim responsibility for the accident. Fault does not determine which insurer will pay for the losses, so you should never claim liability. If there are any witnesses, make sure to get their contact information.
Take photos of the damage. If you have your smartphone on you, take plenty of pictures of the vehicles and any injuries you sustained in the accident. This documentation can serve as proof whenever you file your claim. Make sure the photo quality is clear enough to observe the damage, and make sure you get photos of all vehicles involved, as well as the vehicles’ VIN numbers and odometer.
Don’t be bullied into taking a low-ball settlement. The at-fault driver’s insurer may offer you a quick settlement after the crash. Keep in mind that it’s critical that you get a full medical evaluation. Give your body time to recover and make sure no additional injuries and complications arise. Also, don’t sign anything until you have consulted an experienced injury lawyer. Your attorney will advise you on the amount that will be needed to pay your medical bills, recoup lost wages, and help you move on from the crash.
Keep a file. Hold on to all your car accident-related documents. Important pieces of information include the claim number, names and phone numbers of insurance company contacts, receipts for a rental car, and other expenses you incurred due to the accident. It’s also critical that you keep track of your medical records and bills.
Keep a pain journal. As the weeks go by following your accident, your injuries and symptoms could worsen. Whenever you experience pain, write down what you are feeling. Keeping a pain journal will let your lawyer know what you are going through and, if you need more medical treatment, more compensation can be sought in your settlement.
Contact an Austin car accident attorney. The important thing you should do after a car accident is to consult a qualified Austin car accident lawyer. A skilled attorney can protect your rights and make sure relevant evidence is not destroyed. Your attorney can help with a wide range of issues, including making sure you are compensated and making sure you get the best medical treatment.
Contact an Austin Car Accident Lawyer
If you have been hurt in a car accident in Austin through no fault of your own, allow Loewy Law Firm to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys will not hesitate to take your case to trial if the settlement offered to you is less than what your case is worth. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means there is no fee until you recover compensation for your injuries. Call today for a free and confidential consultation.