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(281) 587-1111
June 4, 2025 by Greg Baumgartner
Distracted driving is among the top causes of car accidents in Houston. Texting, using GPS, eating, or adjusting the radio takes a driver’s attention off the road, increasing the risk of crashes. With millions of vehicles traveling daily on Houston’s congested roads, even a brief distraction can lead to serious collisions. Rear-end accidents, red-light violations, and highway crashes are often linked to distracted driving.
Excessive speed is a leading contributor to serious and fatal car accidents in Houston. Drivers who speed on roadways like I-45, the Southwest Freeway, and Beltway 8 reduce their ability to stop or react in time to avoid a crash. Speed-related collisions tend to be more violent, especially in areas where heavy traffic meets fast-moving vehicles. These crashes frequently involve multiple vehicles and result in life-threatening injuries.
Driving under the influence remains one of the most dangerous behaviors on Houston roadways. Whether after a night out in Midtown or a sports event downtown, intoxicated drivers make poor decisions behind the wheel, such as running lights or driving on the wrong side of the road. DUI-related crashes often occur at night or on weekends and result in catastrophic injuries or death.
Houston drivers frequently run red lights and stop signs, particularly at busy intersections such as Westheimer and Shepherd, or FM 1960 (Cypress Creek Pkwy) and Highway 249. These violations cause deadly T-bone collisions, placing drivers and passengers at high risk for head and chest injuries. Failure to obey traffic signals continues to be a top cause of intersection crashes in Harris County.
Tailgating, weaving through lanes, and cutting off other drivers are examples of aggressive driving seen daily on Houston’s highways. The frustration of traffic delays on roads like the Katy Freeway often leads to road rage incidents that can escalate into violent behavior. Aggressive drivers are more likely to cause high-speed collisions and trigger chain-reaction wrecks.
Failure to yield the right of way is a frequent cause of accidents in Houston, especially near highway exits, feeder roads, and downtown intersections. Whether merging onto I-10 or turning left at a busy light, drivers who ignore yielding rules often collide with cross-traffic or pedestrians. These crashes are particularly dangerous at night or in poorly marked intersections.
Improper lane changes, often without signaling or checking blind spots, cause many wrecks in the Houston area. Roads like the 610 Loop and US-59 see frequent sideswipe crashes due to impatient drivers darting between lanes. In larger vehicles, such as pickups and SUVs, these maneuvers can increase the risk of rollovers, especially at high speeds.
Drowsy driving is a serious problem across Houston. Long work shifts, late-night driving, and early commutes make many drivers dangerously fatigued. Fatigue impairs reaction times and decision-making, increasing the risk of accidents on routes such as Highway 6 and the Hardy Toll Road. Many fatigue-related crashes happen in the early morning or late evening hours. Additionally, 18-wheeler drivers are sometimes known to drive longer than the allowed hours.
New and teenage drivers are more likely to be involved in accidents due to inexperience. Houston’s fast-paced highways, complicated intersections, and heavy traffic present challenges that inexperienced drivers may not be prepared for. Common mistakes include misjudging traffic gaps, failure to signal, and panicking in high-speed situations.
Houston’s weather can quickly shift from dry to hazardous. Houston’s average rainfall is over 50 inches annually. Very heavy rains, flash flooding, and reduced visibility during storms make driving treacherous. Hydroplaning and reduced traction are common during Gulf Coast downpours, especially on roads like Allen Parkway and Memorial Drive. Storm-related crashes spike during hurricane season and sudden weather events.
Brake failure, worn tires, and steering issues are significant risks that can occur when drivers neglect regular maintenance. In Houston’s stop-and-go traffic, mechanical problems can cause rear-end collisions and intersection crashes. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are regularly inspected, and all recalls are addressed to prevent unexpected failures on the road.
Houston is constantly expanding its infrastructure, leading to shifting lanes, unclear signage, and confusing detours. Houston also has some of the most dangerous roads in Texas. Construction zones along I-69, I-45, and Loop 610 often result in sudden stops and tight merges, increasing the chance of accidents. Narrow lanes, uneven surfaces, and unclear traffic flow are especially dangerous for unfamiliar drivers.
Understanding the top causes of car accidents in Houston enables drivers to make more informed and safer decisions behind the wheel. Obeying traffic laws, avoiding distractions, driving at safe speeds, and maintaining your vehicle can all reduce the risk of serious crashes. Allow enough distance between cars, especially during rush hours or in poor weather.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Houston car accident, speak with an experienced attorney to understand your legal rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Houston personal injury law firm of Baumgartner Law Firm at (281) 587-1111.
Baumgartner Law Firm
6711 Cypress Creek Pkwy
Houston, TX, 77069
Since establishing Baumgartner Law Firm in 1985, Greg Baumgartner has built a reputation as one of Houston’s leading personal injury attorneys, dedicated to representing severely injured victims and families who have lost loved ones due to negligence.
Greg holds two law degrees, a distinction earned by less than 1% of all attorneys, demonstrating his exceptional legal expertise. He is also a prestigious Trial Lawyers College graduate, further enhancing his skills in trial advocacy and litigation.
His relentless commitment to legal excellence and client advocacy has earned him recognition from prestigious organizations, including Super Lawyers, the Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and many others.
With decades of experience, Greg has consistently received top peer reviews. He holds a preeminent rating, a testament to his unwavering dedication to securing justice and maximum compensation for his clients.
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