A tragic two-car crash near Manor, Texas, resulted in one fatality and serious injuries to another individual. The incident occurred on September 25, according to reports from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Incident Details
The DPS reported that at approximately 4:36 a.m. on September 25, troopers responded to a collision on Farm to Market (FM) 973, about half a mile north of Manor city limits. The accident involved a 2017 Ram 1500 and a 2012 Ram pickup.
According to preliminary investigations, the 2017 Ram 1500, traveling southbound on FM 973, veered into the northbound lane, colliding with the 2012 Ram pickup. The driver of the 2012 Ram pickup was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the 2017 Ram 1500 sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
The Texas DPS is currently conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Legal Considerations in Two-Vehicle Collisions
Two-vehicle collisions often raise complex legal questions, particularly when determining fault and liability. In Texas, as in many states, negligence plays a crucial role in establishing responsibility for damages and injuries resulting from a car accident.
Determining Negligence
Negligence, in a legal context, refers to a party’s failure to exercise the level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances. In the context of a car accident, negligence can take many forms, including:
- Traffic Violations: Violating traffic laws, such as speeding, running a red light, or, as appears to be the case here, crossing into oncoming traffic.
- Distracted Driving: Engaging in activities that divert attention from driving, such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio.
- Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Reckless Driving: Disregarding the safety of others on the road.
Liability and Damages
When a driver’s negligence causes an accident, they may be held liable for the resulting damages. These damages can include:
- Medical Expenses: Covering past and future medical bills, including hospitalization, surgery, physical therapy, and medication.
- Lost Wages: Compensating for lost income due to inability to work.
- Property Damage: Covering the costs of repairing or replacing damaged vehicles and other personal property.
- Pain and Suffering: Addressing the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
- Wrongful Death: In cases where an accident results in a fatality, the deceased’s family may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for their loss, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
Investigating the Accident
A thorough investigation is essential to determine the cause of the accident and establish liability. This investigation may involve:
- Police Reports: Reviewing the official police report, which typically includes details of the accident, witness statements, and the officer’s assessment of fault.
- Accident Reconstruction: Employing accident reconstruction experts to analyze the scene, vehicle damage, and other evidence to recreate the accident and determine how it occurred.
- Witness Interviews: Gathering statements from witnesses who observed the accident.
- Vehicle Inspections: Inspecting the vehicles involved to identify any mechanical defects that may have contributed to the accident.
- Medical Records: Obtaining and reviewing medical records to document the extent of injuries and the course of treatment.
Insurance Considerations
Insurance coverage is a critical aspect of car accident claims. In Texas, drivers are required to carry minimum amounts of liability insurance to cover damages they cause in an accident. However, in some cases, the at-fault driver may be uninsured or underinsured, which can complicate the process of recovering damages.
- Liability Coverage: This covers damages the insured driver causes to others in an accident.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This protects the insured driver if they are hit by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): This covers the insured driver’s medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of fault.
Importance of Legal Counsel
Given the complexities of car accident claims, it is often beneficial to seek legal counsel from a personal injury attorney. A personal injury attorney can:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Gather and preserve evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent the injured party in court, if necessary
Commentary from Gosuits Manor, Texas Personal Injury Attorney
Car accidents can have devastating consequences for those involved, both physically and emotionally. Understanding your rights and the legal options available is essential to navigating the aftermath of such incidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, it is advisable to consult with a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
