Most Dangerous Roadways in Corpus Christi
Recently, with the expansion of I-69 as well as other road-maintenance projects around the city, Corpus Christi drivers are at higher risk of construction-related car accidents. Construction on roadways means detours and unfamiliar driving patterns, which can cause confusion and heightened danger, even for local drivers. Construction also means debris, dust, and other obstacles such as large or slow-moving trucks. Construction workers are also at risk of being hit by cars. Historically, about 750 people every year are killed in work zone car crashes in the United States.
Another factor that may affect Corpus Christi drivers is the influx of beach-bound tourists during busy seasons, and the dangers that stem from this. Beach-goers who have been partying over the weekend or on holidays may have been drinking, which means an increased risk of drunk drivers. In 2018, there were 374 alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes in Corpus Christi and 135 possible injuries. Five people died. These statistics are alarming, but fortunately, DUIs have been decreasing nationwide.
Road Hazards
When roads haven’t been well-managed, it causes unsafe conditions for people driving on them. There are many ways a road can fall into disrepair, including:
- Potholes – Large holes in the road can cause damage to vehicles as well as injury to passengers.
- Uneven pavement – Roads that are too grooved, rough, or worn-out can also cause damage to vehicles. Improper traction may also lead a car to skid.
- Improper drainage – Poor drainage design on a road can cause it to flood, which creates unsafe conditions for driving. In Corpus Christi, this may be especially dangerous during hurricane season.
- Missing/poorly-marked signs – When a sign warning drivers about upcoming hazards is missing, damaged, or not made obvious, it can prove to be extremely dangerous when that hazard shows up further down the road. Speed limit signs should also always be visible to all drivers.
- Missing/damaged safety features – Guardrails, speedbumps, reflectors, and other kinds of road safety features are necessary tools to keep drivers safe. When they’re damaged or missing, cars are at risk of running off the road or swerving into the opposite lane.
Dangerous Roads in Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi is one of the top 10 largest cities in the state, with a population of over 400,000 in the greater metropolitan area. Because of this, the city boasts access to many large highways. Unfortunately, these large and highly-trafficked roads are not always safe.
I-37
Interstate 37 is a major six-lane highway that runs 143 miles from San Antonio to Corpus Christi. Cutting a path straight through the city, west of the bay, I-37 is a central route in and out of Corpus that is highly frequented by locals and tourists coming from central Texas alike. Both the size of the highway and its high traffic make it one of the most dangerous roads in Corpus Christi. The speed limit on I-37 was raised from 70mph to 75mph in 2012, which also contributes to the severity of crashes.
Frequently Asked questions
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What information should I gather after an accident?After a car accident, it is important to exchange contact and insurance information with the other drivers. You should also be sure to take down license plate numbers, driver’s license and ID numbers, and the information of any passengers involved. If there were witnesses to the accident, try to record their statements and collect their information as well. If you have a camera available, take pictures and video of the accident as well as the surrounding area. The information you record during this time will help your claim in court. It is virtually impossible to take down too much data.
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I was in a minor accident. Do I still need to call the police?Yes. Calling the police is a critical step in any accident, even if the damage is minor and no injuries occurred. The time directly after an accident is perhaps the most important period for collecting information and evidence about your accident. The police will take your statement and file an official report which you can later use in court to support your claim. Be sure to take down the officer’s contact information as well as the incident report number.
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How long does the personal injury claim process take?Although this is one of the most commonly asked questions, there is no simple answer. Car accident claims can be enormously complex and every accident will have unique factors. It is possible to settle some claims in a matter of weeks, while other cases can take years. The length of a claim can be influenced by several factors including if a serious injury occurred (and how severe), as well as if the case goes to trial.
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My insurance company has offered me a settlement. Should I take it?It can be difficult for the average person to estimate what a fair settlement will look like and in most situations, the initial offers presented by insurance companies will have room for negotiation. You are not required to accept a settlement, especially when you feel as if it is not fair compensation. An attorney can consult with you to determine if an offer is fair and help you to negotiate a higher claim.
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The other driver’s insurance company has contacted me. Should I talk to them?No. While it is important to remain polite, you are well within your rights in refusing to talk to the insurance company representing the other driver. They will not have your best interest in mind and may use the information you give them to hurt your claim. If you are contacted by another insurance agency, or they present you with a settlement, contact the lawyers at our firm immediately. We will help to protect your interests to ensure you receive fair compensation.
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I was partially responsible for an accident. Can I still collect compensation for my injuries?Unless you were entirely responsible for an accident, such as in the case of driving while drunk, you may still be able to collect restitution for damages. Texas law follows the rule of comparative negligence, sometimes called proportionate responsibility, which states that fault for an accident can be shared by multiple parties. The monetary compensation awarded to each driver will be adjusted by the percentage that they are determined to be responsible.
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What if the other motorist is an uninsured driver?The reality is that not all drivers on the road are legally insured and if you have been hit by a driver who does not possess liability insurance, collecting restitution can be difficult. If your insurance provides coverage for uninsured motorists, you may be able to collect damages from your insurance. If you do not have this coverage, it is still possible to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
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Do I need a lawyer?While you are not required to hire an attorney for a personal injury car accident claim, it often makes sense to do so. While the average person may only experience a car accident a few times in their life, our attorney is involved in personal injury cases on a daily basis. A good lawyer will be intimately familiar with the laws surrounding personal injury and car accident claims and can assist you in negotiating settlements, disputing unfair treatment, and ensuring your interests are protected.
Why choose our firm our unique approach sets us apart from other firms
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We prepare every case as if it's going to trial.
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We believe in open communication and responsiveness. You can contact your attorney 24/7.
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Your needs and well-being are at the forefront of everything we do.
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We leverage technology to enhance your experience.
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We are committed to advocating for all individuals, regardless of their background.
Contact Us
If you believe your accident was caused by unsafe road conditions or the negligence of another person, contact us today for a free consultation of your case with a knowledgeable member of our legal team. You have the right to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, loss of income, and damage to your property stemming from your accident.
At Brunkenhoefer, P.C. Injury Attorneys, we believe innocent people shouldn’t have to pay for the recklessness of others. We represent many different types of cases for our clients, and we’re eager to hear your story so we can start working towards the solution that is best for you and your family. Make sure you get in touch with us as soon as you can so you don’t miss your opportunity to collect the compensation you deserve.
Call us today at (361) 310-5299 for more information.