Two unrelated car accidents occurred in the early morning of Saturday, May 23rd, one of which led to the death of a 38-year-old man. 

More Details About the Edinburg Car Accidents

The first incident took place near the 3100 block of East Mile 19 at around 2:30 AM. Officers stated that the driver of a Chevy Colorado pickup truck was speeding on Mile 19 Road when he hit a dirt mound, which led to him losing control, crashing into a tree, and flipping over. 

The driver was ejected from the vehicle and lost his life at the scene. It is believed the driver was not wearing his seatbelt. 

The second incident took place in the 2800 block of East Monte Cristo Road at around 7 AM and involved multiple vehicles. Police stated that the 17-year-old driver of a Ford Fusion was traveling in the wrong lane when they crashed head-on into a Ford F-150 and then a Dodge Caravan. 

A statement released noted that the 17-year-old driver was taken to DHR Health in Edinburg and was in critical condition. Three victims in the Ford pickup were taken to McAllen Medical Center, while the driver of the Dodge was also taken to a local hospital.

The Importance of Wearing Your Seatbelt

Individuals should recognize the potentially fatal consequences that can occur if they fail to wear a seat belt. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration:

• Seat belts saved an estimated 14,955 lives in 2017. 
• 47% of passenger vehicle occupants who lost their lives in 2019 were not buckled up. 
• 55% of those killed during nighttime accidents in 2019 were unrestrained. 
• Individuals who buckle up in the front seat of a passenger vehicle can reduce their risk of a fatal injury by 45% and of a moderate to critical injury by 50%.  

Whether as a driver or passenger, buckling up is the safest measure you can take to keep yourself safe and secure inside of a vehicle. It’s important to note that improperly wearing a seatbelt, such as wearing the strap below your arm, can put you and your loved ones at risk of injury or even death if involved in a car accident. 

Preventing Vehicle Ejections

The following rules are key to ensuring that you and your loved ones remain safe should you be involved in a car accident:

• Maintain Your Vehicle – Properly maintaining your vehicle can help you to spot any problematic issues such as defective seat belts, windows, door latches, or other vehicle components and resolve them before a serious situation takes place. 
• Don’t Speed – Always stick to the speed limit when operating your vehicle. High speeds can propel an occupant out of the cab if safety equipment fails.
• Double Check Your Child’s Safety Seat – Always check and recheck to see if your child’s safety seat is properly installed and secured.
• Encourage the Use of Seat Belts – Seat belts are there to save lives should a car accident occur. Most vehicle ejection fatalities occur because the driver or passenger isn’t wearing their seat belt.

The McAllen Car Accident Attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys Encourage You to Buckle Up 

Our McAllen car accident attorneys take great pride in the decades serving the people of the Rio Grande Valley. During this time frame, our Top Lawyer J. Gonzalez has earned the Rio Grande Valley’s trust by helping car accident victims recover after such traumatic car accidents.

And to this day and beyond, J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek the financial recovery they need to begin the healing process.

Injured or Lost Someone Because of a Car Accident? Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE virtual consultation!

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Source: MyRGV News

A 33-year-old man lost his life on Saturday, May 17th, in a 3-vehicle crash near Hargill.

Negligent Drivers Cause Fatality

The Texas Dept. of Public Safety reported a car accident on Saturday, May 17th, at around 11 a.m. on FM 490, east of FM 493 near Hargill.

According to DPS Troopers, a red Dodge Ram and White Chevrolet Silverado were speeding next to each other on FM 490, traveling westbound. Initial investigation revealed that the driver of the Silverado was traveling on the wrong side of the road when they lost control of their vehicle and struck a Dodge Dakota that was on the eastbound shoulder of FM 490.

The driver of the Dodge was forced off the road, which led to a rollover. The driver of the Ram then struck the Chevrolet before fleeing the scene. The individual was found in a nearby neighborhood.

The driver of the Chevrolet also fled the scene but returned.

The driver of the Dodge suffered fatal injuries as a result of the crash.

Common Causes of Multi-Vehicle Accidents

Some of the most common causes of multi-vehicle accidents include:

• • Bad weather conditions
  • Speeding
  • Use of cell phones & electronic devices
  • Intoxicated drivers
  • Distracted driving
  • Negligent driving behaviors

Discovering Who is at Fault

Multi-vehicle accidents can become complex as there are many factors that can cause an incident. Law enforcement agents must identify the negligent act while also investigating whether other parties were speeding, following too closely, using a cell phone, or driving negligently.

Duty of Care and Proximate Cause

When out on the road, we all are under the duty of care to drive responsibly to avoid an accident. When an individual fails, they become the proximate cause or legally responsible party. Individuals injured as a result of the at-fault driver’s behavior have a legal right to compensation.

Should an individual lose their life in a car accident, certain remaining family members of the decedent may have the legal right to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party.

In order to determine who was at fault in the accident, insurance investigators will review police reports to find out if there were any arrest or citations for:

• • Intoxication
  • Possession of narcotics
  • Open alcohol container
  • Speeding
  • Suspended license or unlicensed driver
  • No insurance
  • Reckless driving
  • Following too closely

Investigators will also interview drivers, passengers, and witnesses, as well as take photographs of the accident scene. They will also review driving records of drivers to research for prior arrests, tickets, and accidents.

Filing a Claim Against the At-Fault Driver(s)

If you are involved in a multi-vehicle accident, you’ll want to contact your insurance company immediately. You may also want to pursue your own claim against the at-fault driver(s), especially in a wrongful death scenario.

If you’re not sure who is at fault, then you can file your claim against all the insurance companies of the other drivers. This may help to procure a better understanding of who is at fault, as the insurance companies will attempt to identify the liable party.

Because the legal aspects of a multi-vehicle accident can become so complex and convoluted, it is in your best interest to seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury lawyer to ensure you get everything that is owed to you.

When you or a loved one have suffered a tragedy, you need a law firm that will fight for you. J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys knows how to get results and can help you secure the justice and compensation you and your family need.

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Source: KRGV

The Willacy County Sheriff’s Office announced that a 52-year-old man was killed in an auto-pedestrian crash on Wednesday, May 12th.

Details About the Incident

On Wednesday, May 12th, Willacy County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a hit-and-run auto-pedestrian crash that took place at the intersection of Interstate 69 northbound frontage and Spur 56.

The victim of the accident was identified as a 52-year-old individual from Los Fresnos.

The Willacy County Sheriff’s Office suspects foul play. The exact manner in which the victim died is pending the results of the autopsy. Investigators from Willacy County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Rangers continue to search for the driver.

Factors & Cause of Auto-Pedestrian Accidents

The reality is that pedestrians are at high risk of suffering serious or fatal injuries when involved in an auto-ped accident. Without any form of protection, a victim hit by a car traveling at any speed can face a wide array of injuries; victims who roll under the car after being struck face grave danger.

Auto-pedestrian accidents happen for a number of reasons, and at times can occur as a result of the pedestrian acting negligently or inappropriately. Some of the most commonly recognized factors and causes of auto-ped accidents include:

• Alcohol or Drug Use: Using any substance before getting behind the wheel is one of the leading causes of car accidents in general. Driving under the influence can quickly lead to a serious incident; however, many alcohol or drug-related accidents involve pedestrians who are intoxicated. Drivers and pedestrians should remain sober at all times when on the road.
• Distracted Driving: Another commonly recognized factor in car accidents, distracted driving, whether caused by cell phone use or some other negligent behavior, can quickly lead to tragedy.
• Failure to Recognize Right-of-Way: Unfortunately, many drivers fail to follow simple traffic laws and fail to recognize when pedestrians have a right-of-way. Auto-ped accidents can easily take place at crosswalks if a negligent driver fails in their duty of care.
• Uncontrolled Speed: Excessive speed has been shown to play a pivotal role in a high percentage of car accidents. When traveling at a high rate of speed, a driver striking a pedestrian can easily lead to catastrophic injuries or worse.
• Road Rage: Road rage often leads to reckless driving behaviors that can put the safety of others at risk.

Damages in an Auto-Ped Accident

If you or a loved one have suffered serious injuries in an auto-ped accident, there are legal actions you can take to recover compensation for the damages you have suffered. Potential damages you are able to recover include:

• Emergency medical bills
• Ongoing care expenses
• Lost wages and earnings
• Diminished future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

If your loved one suffered a fatality because of a negligent driver in an auto-pedestrian accident, you may be able to file a wrongful death suit and recover:

• Funeral expenses
• Loss of parental services
• Loss of spousal services
  Loss of companionship
• Punitive damages

If you’ve been hurt in an auto-pedestrian accident in the Rio Grande Valley, reach out to the Brownsville car accident lawyers at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today to learn more about your options for financial relief.

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Source: KRGV

Severe weather hit the Rio Grande Valley a few hours after midnight on Wednesday, May 12th. Heavy wind, rains, and lightning caused serious damage throughout the region, with the Mid-Valley carrying the brunt of the storm.

While the storm hit at an hour when few drivers were on the road, it could’ve just as easily occurred during rush hour traffic. Heavy rain, low visibility, and slippery roads can easily lead to catastrophic – or even fatal – car accidents.

With summer starting soon and hurricane season just around the corner, drivers in the Rio Grande Valley need to consider the importance of preparing for driving in poor weather conditions. Your Weslaco car accident lawyer at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys would like to remind you of the importance of being extra cautious when behind the wheel during heavy rainfall.

How Inclement Weather Can Affect Drivers

Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rains, can greatly affect driving conditions, including:

• • Roadway capacity can be affected by heavy rains. Flooding, road closures, access restrictions, debris accumulation, or obstruction of roads can mean danger when traveling.
  • Drivers are affected by mobility when driving on slippery roads. Not only must drivers slow down in consideration of the weather, but they may also be required to take evasive actions in order to avoid colliding with another vehicle.
  • Inclement weather generally leads to a lowered range of sight, especially in conditions such as heavy thunderstorms. When vision is reduced to a few feet in front of the driver, it can be difficult to stay safe on the road.

Dangerous Weather Equals Dangerous Driving

A study conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that the most dangerous driving conditions occur when it is raining. Amazingly, rainy weather causes more driving fatalities than driving in the snow. Since rain causes roadways to become wet and slippery, it can be harder for motorists to maintain full control of their vehicle.

Alongside the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Federal Highway Administration highlights some startling statistics regarding weather on driver safety:

• • An average of 5,000 lives are lost each year in the United States due to inclement weather.
  • Over 418,000 are seriously injured in weather-related crashes each year in the U.S.
  • 70%of weather-related crashes occur on wet pavement, while 46% occur during rainfall.

Protecting Yourself & Loved Ones When Driving in the Rain

1.Save a life and slow down when driving in the rain.

It’s simple. Wet roads are dangerous and even more so when you’re speeding. During a heavy downpour, you should travel at a lower speed than the limit just to be safe.

If other drivers are zooming by, give them space and allow them to pass. There’s no sense in risking your life because someone else is in a rush.

2.Turn on your headlights in heavy rain.

Texas legally requires you to turn on your headlights if you are unable to see 1,000 feet ahead of you when driving. However, it’s still in your best interest to turn on your vehicle’s headlights even if it’s only slightly raining.

You’ll be able to see better and other drivers will be able to see you more clearly.

3.Avoid suddenly breaking.

Slamming on the breaks in any situation is dangerous and can lead to you losing control of your vehicle in stormy weather.

If you must travel during a thunderstorm, drive slower than usual and take your foot off the accelerator earlier than you normally would before gently pressing your brakes.

4.Handling hydroplaning.

When your tires lose traction with the roadway because of water, your vehicle can become difficult to control, which is essentially hydroplaning.

If you begin to hydroplane (lose control of your vehicle), take your foot off the gas pedal slowly and steer your car straight until you are able to gain control again. If your car is spinning, turn the wheel in the direction the vehicle is spinning to avoid flipping your car.

5.Leave extra space.

This is a very common-sense move that can save you from a serious accident. Simply, keep extra distance between your car and the car in front of you when traveling in heavy rain. This will ensure that you have enough space – and time – to maneuver accordingly.

6.Give it time before you hit the road.

Unless you are already on the road, or an emergency requires you to get behind the wheel, it is in your best interest to wait until the weather clears up to travel.

If you are already on the road and the weather takes a turn for the worse, pull over somewhere safe and allow the storm to pass.

7.Watch out for foggy windows.

Rain will cause humidity levels to increase, which will likely cause your windows to fog up. Most cars have ventilation systems with a function that will help get rid of this type of fog. If your car doesn’t have this feature, pull over until you can see out your windows.

Don’t Risk It: Safety First When Driving in Bad Weather

Unfortunately, there are many negligent drivers who put others at risk with their driving behaviors.
If you or a loved one should be involved in a car accident during bad weather conditions, do not hesitate to contact the Weslaco car accident lawyers of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys to fight for your rights and begin putting your life back in order.

Bad Weather Doesn’t Stop Bad Decisions. If You Were Involved in a Car Accident During a Bad Storm Because of Another Driver’s Negligence, Contact Us Now!

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It can happen in the blink of an eye; another car suddenly collides with yours. Moments before the collision, you witnessed the other driver looking at their cell phone. Unfortunately, there’s nothing you could have done at that point. The second the other driver took their eyes from the road, they swerved into your lane and struck your car head-on.

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, (TxDOT), more than 100,000 distracted driving crashes took place on Texas roads in 2017. 

If you suffered severe injuries in a car accident in or around McAllen, or tragically lost a loved one due to a distracted driver, you may have rights to secure compensation for the damages you have suffered. 

Today, our committed McAllen car accident attorneys will list what kind of damages you can expect from a distracted driving accident. 

How Distracted Driving Accidents Occur

Distracted driving accidents take place when a driver loses attentiveness to the road and focuses on something inside their vehicle instead. Distracted drivers have also been known to remove one or both hands off the wheel. 

Some of the most common causes of driver distraction include:

• • Smartphone usage 
  • Eating
  • Talking to people in the car 
  • Flipping radio stations
  • Looking at a GPS

These are only a few behaviors that create distractions when behind the wheel. Any time a driver pays attention to something other than the road, the odds of an accident significantly increase.

Types of Compensation For a Distracted Driving Accident

Once it has been established that the other driver is liable for the damages you sustained, you will be required to total the amount of financial and personal losses to you. 

Typical recovery categories in a car accident case include, but are not limited to:

• • Medical costs – The individual at fault can be responsible for any medical treatment you need as a result of the accident, such as emergency room costs, hospital stays, follow-up appointments in a doctor’s office, physical therapy, and other rehabilitation services.
  • Loss of income – In serious accidents, victims may be forced to take a significant amount of time off work. You can get paid through your average wages, but also any sick time or vacation days lost because of the injury, bonus pay, and employment benefits.
  • Property damage – Any damage to your vehicle, including bodywork, paint matching, and repair work. If your car is totaled, you can obtain the vehicle’s fair market value. In certain cases, victims may also gather reimbursement for lost personal property damaged in the accident (like a computer or cell phone).
  • Out-of-pocket payments – Any expenses you were obligated to cover because of the accident, (e.g. rental car costs, prescription medications, co-pays, assistive devices, medical equipment, and nursing care), can be repaid in an injury lawsuit.
  • Pain and suffering – There are particular losses that cannot be simply translated into a monetary term, like mental and emotional distress, sexual dysfunction, or loss of marital intimacy. These values may be identified in punitive damages, and the court usually dictates the amount.

If the insurance company rejects your claim or gives you an estimate that won’t cover all of your bills, it is in your best interest to seek the counsel of a skilled injury attorney. A lawyer can investigate your case, suggest how to improve your chances of winning a personal injury lawsuit, and provide an estimation of how much your claim is truly worth. 

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Available to Help You Acquire Damages from Your Distracted Driving Accident

If you’ve been involved in a distracted driving accident, our team of qualified, compassionate McAllen car accident lawyers at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can let you know more about your legal rights and help raise your odds of recovering fair compensation for your losses.

At J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys, our goal is to help all personal injury victims get closer to their path to recovery. Give the J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys a call today for your FREE virtual consultation!

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When driving while distracted, all it takes is a brief moment of not being mindful and you can easily cause a serious collision. With April being Distracted Driving Awareness Month, our McAllen car accident attorneys want to explain the importance of being aware of the laws that protect Texans from distracted drivers.

What Is Considered Distracted Driving?

Anything that takes your attention away from driving can result in distracted driving.

While most states have passed laws banning cell phone usage while driving – whether text or call – many individuals still fail to abide by these rules. These laws are set in place to protect drivers on the road from one another, especially those who fail in their duty of care.

Distractions typically take place when a driver struggles to stay attentive to the roads and conditions due to something else grabbing their attention, such as a cell phone, conversing with others, changing the radio station, or even eating.

Smartphones

While there are no current laws in Texas against the use of cell phones while driving, drivers are not permitted to text while driving. Laws regarding phone use make it illegal to text when behind the wheel.

Recently developed initiatives keep new drivers from finishing their permit or driver’s test without agreeing to complete the Impact Texas Drivers (ITD) program. This program was created to teach new drivers in Texas how distractions can lead to negative consequences.

Texting and Driving In Texas

While any handheld device can provide a distraction to Texas drivers, it is generally the physical act of looking at a cell phone and texting that leads to an accident.

Legally, drivers cannot read, write, or send text messages when behind the wheel. This also applies to email, photo messages, social media platforms, and video chat. What the driver is able to do is come to a complete stop, halt at a red light, and stay at a stop sign while doing these things.

The temporary stay or stop gives the option to text legally in the state as the person is not a danger to others when immobile.

Texas Teenage Drivers

Other laws that impact Texas citizens include the need for young adults and teens to pass particular programs.

There is an Impact Texas Teen Drivers course required for anyone younger than 24. This is an imperative way to prevent distracted drivers and the issues they may bring out for other Texas drivers sharing the roadways.

Individuals must pass the course before they can take their driver’s license exam. These courses help to ensure that the teenager or individual under 24 knows what distractions are and how they can contribute to a collision and severe injury or death.

Distracted Driving Penalties

While some laws require courses, programs, or certification for specific kinds of drivers, there are also penalties for non-compliance to these regulations. Based on the violation, the individual will get a misdemeanor charge with fines that are generally between $25 and $100.

If the same individual repeats the offense, the fees constantly double from the original cost. This could come to around $4000 fines and a year in county prison. Other legal consequences are possible if the driver seriously hurts another person or causes a fatality in an accident.

Skilled McAllen Injury Attorneys That Can Defend Your Rights

If you’ve been involved in a car accident because of a distracted driver’s carelessness, the respected and experienced McAllen car accident lawyers at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can assist you in securing compensation for your losses.

At J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys, we are committed to helping personal injury victims recover financially, physically, and emotionally.

Reach out to J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for your FREE virtual consultation!

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On the early morning of Saturday, April 24th, a fatal two-vehicle collision left a 50-year-old man dead after being rear-ended by a presumed drunk driver.

Details About the Incident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m. at the intersection of Cage Blvd. and Javelina Drive in Pharr.

The 50-year-old man was stopped at a red light he was struck from behind by an alleged drunk driver shortly after. The man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The 21-year-old drunk driver was arrested and charged with intoxicated manslaughter and accident involving death.

Texas-Based Drunk Driving Statistics

One of the most selfish acts one can commit is drunk driving. This easily preventable behavior is one of the leading causes of serious accidents that frequently leave innocent victims suffering from tremendous damages or even losing their lives.

Sadly, drunk driving accidents accounted for 25% of all Texas road fatalities in 2019, which tallies out to approximately 886 deaths.

Pharr experienced a total number of 37 drunk-driving incidents in 2019. Of those incidents reported:

• • There were 8 incidents in which 12 people suffered possible injuries.
  • There were 7 incidents in which 9 people suffered non-incapacitating injuries.

Rear-End Collisions By the Numbers

Rear-end collisions can be some of the most destructive types of accidents as they can directly impact a person’s vertebrae, causing severe injuries to a victim’s spinal cord, skull, neck, and can even lead to traumatic brain injuries.

Rear-end accidents occur whenever a driver slams into the rear bumper of the vehicle (or vehicles in some cases) ahead of them. These accidents are responsible for approximately 29% of all serious vehicle-related injuries across the United States.

The RGV’s Top Lawyer Ready to Help You Obtain the Justice You Deserve!

When a vicious drunk driver takes the life of a loved one, your family deserves justice.

The McAllen wrongful death lawyers at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are ready to fight viciously in court and make an example out of the negligent drunk driver that has caused you such pain.

Do not hesitate to contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys for a FREE case evaluation today!

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Source: Valley Central

On the night of April 17th, a single-vehicle accident involving a Tesla vehicle left 2 dead. As per reports, neither of the victims were in the driver’s seat.

Details About the Incident

According to local authorities, the accident took place near Spring, TX, at approximately 11:25 p.m.

The 2019 Tesla Model S was traveling at a high speed when it swerved off-road and crashed into a tree. The impact caused the car to catch fire, which took nearly four hours to extinguish. Over 30,000 gallons of water were needed to fully extinguish the fire.

The bodies of a 59-year-old male and a 69-year-old male were recovered from the passenger seat and back seat of the vehicle, respectively. Authorities believe neither of the men were sitting in the driver’s seat at the time of the accident.

Single-Vehicle Accidents By the Numbers

Single-vehicle accidents tend to be one of the most catastrophic and deadliest types of accidents that can occur on Texas roadways. These types of incidents can occur as a result of a number of issues including vehicle malfunction, reckless driving, intoxicated driving, or fatigued driving.

As per the latest data collected by the Texas Department of Transportation, there were approximately 1,161 Texan lives lost as a result of single-vehicle, run-off road crashes.

Contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation!

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Source: KHOU

On the early morning of Monday, April 19th, a fatal accident involving a street sweeper occurred on the 20000 block of Interstate 45 South in Houston.

Details About the Accident

According to local authorities, the accident occurred at approximately 2:20 a.m.

The accident involved two street sweepers, a crash truck, and a 1995 Montero Sport SUV.

As per initial reports, the driver of the SUV was traveling on the shoulder when they crashed into a parked sweeper truck, causing both vehicles to catch fire. The driver of the SUV was not able to escape their vehicle and was declared dead shortly after the accident.

The driver of the sweeper truck was transported to the nearest hospital where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

No other injuries were reported and the accident remains under investigation.

Rear-End Collisions Explained

Rear-end collisions occur when a driver collides with the rear bumper of a vehicle ahead of them. These types of accidents can often cause severe damage to a vehicle and the human body, especially an individual’s neck, back, spine, and vertebrae.

It has been reported that rear-end collisions account for approximately 29% of all serious injuries in car accidents.

As per research conducted by the Insurance Information Institute (III), it was reported that in 2018, there were 2,439 fatal accidents as a result of rear-end collisions, accounting for 7.2% of all fatal accidents on U.S. roadways.

What To Do In the Event of a Rear-End Collision

In the event that a negligent driver hits your vehicle from behind, you should proceed to take the following actions:

• Check yourself and others for potential injuries: It is vital to make sure that you or your fellow passengers did not suffer any sort of serious injuries following the accident. If any parties are injured, it is important to call an ambulance immediately.
• Contact local authorities: Call the local authorities and notify them of the whereabouts of the accident.
• Collect any important evidence that you can, including:
  • Any photographs and video footage relating to the accident, including injuries, vehicle and property damages, and the car accident scene itself.
  • The at-fault party’s contact information, including their full legal name, phone number, vehicle model, insurance information, and license plate number.
  • The police and incident report once it becomes available.
  • All medical documentation regarding the accident, including any medical records pointing to the injuries sustained in the car accident, receipts, prescribed medications, rehabilitation notes, and hospital bills that were given.
• Get in touch with personal injury lawyers, such as the Rio Grande Valley’s J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys, in order to file a claim as soon as you possibly can. The Texas statute of limitations will only allow you to do so within a two (2) year time span.

Determined Rio Grande Valley Car Accident Attorney Ready To Seek Justice On Your Behalf!

When a serious accident occurs, it is in your best interest to seek justice against the negligent driver responsible.

J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are ready to fight tooth-and-nail in court in order to help you seek the compensation you need for the pain, damages, and trauma you have had to endure as a result of your accident.

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE no-obligation consultation!

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Source: KPRC

A vehicle is a piece of heavy machinery that requires a driver’s total attention, and in recent years, distracted driving has become increasingly concerning. When involved in a car accident, it’s important to try to uncover the cause, and in many instances, a distracted driver may be to blame. 

A trusted and respected McAllen car accident attorney can help your case by gathering evidence to prove whether a distracted driver is responsible, and present findings to the court in order to secure damages for your pain and suffering. 

Understanding Distracted Driving

In Texas, a study found that almost 10% of drivers on the road are on their phones at any given moment. It’s estimated that one in four crashes are a result of distracted driving. 

Distracted driving can include any of the following:

• • Posting to social media
  • Grooming (brushing hair, putting on makeup, etc.)
  • Eating
  • Checking email
  • Reading
  • Using a navigation system
  • Watching a video
  • Adjusting music players

Proving Your Accident Was a Result of a Distracted Driver

One of the easiest ways to prove whether a driver was using a cell phone at the time of a crash is through phone records. In order to obtain those records, a subpoena will be issued, and a car accident attorney will be the one to handle this step in the process. 

In order for phone records to be subpoenaed, a claim must be filed. During discovery, it is the role of the accident injury attorney to request the negligent driver’s phone records, which can be requested via the driver’s insurance company. 

While an insurance company can submit these records voluntarily to the attorney, it’s more common for an attorney to obtain them through a subpoena. Once obtained, the attorney can begin the process of reviewing the call log to determine if and when a text or call was made leading up to the accident. 

Are Negligent Drivers Liable If They’re Found To Have Been Texting and Driving?

In Texas, an individual found to have engaged in an activity that demonstrates negligence is held liable for their actions. In personal injury cases, if texting and driving can be proven, the negligent driver can be held responsible for compensation made to the victim(s) for damages. 

Damages can include: 

• • Medical bills
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages
  • Physical impairment
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damages

Because an insurance company is a for-profit business, many will attempt to blame the injured victim for the accident. The insurance company will err on the side of the negligent driver because typically the victim’s best interest is not their primary pursuit. 

Top Injury Attorney In McAllen Helps Distracted Driving Accident Victims

If you’ve been involved in a car accident where a distracted driver was to blame, you need a respected and experienced McAllen car accident attorney to help you obtain compensation for your pain and suffering.

The Rio Grande Valley’s “Top Lawyer” at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys is dedicated to helping personal injury victims seek the financial recovery they need to begin the healing process.

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today for a FREE virtual consultation!

Book My FREE Consultation Now