On Thursday, February 20th, a large commercial vehicle was involved in a rollover accident at the intersection of HWY 107 and FM 493 in Hidalgo County.

Details of the Accident

The Department of Public Safety (DPS) showed up at the scene and were in the process of removing the large vehicle from the road. The Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office advised drivers via Twitter to refrain from that area and proceed with caution.

No injuries have been reported as of yet, and the specific details of what led to the incident are still being investigated as of right now by local authorities. 

Notable Rollover Statistics

Rollover accidents are considered to be one of the deadliest types of car accidents in the United States. All of these accidents occur under different circumstances. The larger and more narrow the vehicle is, the more at risk they may be due to their high center of gravity.

According to data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• 90 percent of single-vehicle rollover accidents occur when the driver is making a routine driving maneuver (driving straight or in a curve). Unfortunately, distracted driving is usually the listed reason for the occurrence.
• 85 percent of rollover fatalities are caused by single-vehicle crashes.
• Nearly 75 percent (or ¾ ) of rollover accidents occurred on roads that had a speed limit of 55 miles per hour and above.
• 40 percent of fatal rollover accidents involved excessive speeds, and nearly half involved alcohol.

In addition, a separate study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that in 2018, 45 percent of large truck occupant fatalities were involved in rollover accidents.

Most Common Rollover Types and Causes 

The following are all some of the most common types of rollover accidents that you should be aware of:

• Tripped rollovers – This is considered the most common type of rollover and tallies up for a total of 95 percent of all rollover accidents. Tripping is caused when a driver attempts to make a right turn while going down a slope at a fast speed, when a driver hits a guardrail at a fast speed, or runs over an object or soft soil, causing the vehicle to rollover.
• Untripped rollovers – These types of incidents occur when the driver takes a very sharp turn, an unusual swerve, or another sort of vehicle avoidance maneuver.

Other causes of a rollover can include:

• Hazardous road conditions – Severe weather or inadequate road conditions can be a huge risk, especially if the driver is not taking the necessary precautions.
• Driving behavior – Things such as texting and driving, excessive speeding, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs can lead to a severe accident that could take the lives of any involved or sharing the road.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys That Are Here To Help

If you were to survive such a horrific rollover accident, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Once you have received proper medical assistance, contact the McAllen car accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can to see what legal options are available and evaluate what negligent factors led up to your accident in order to proceed with your car accident claim.

If you or a loved were involved in a severe rollover accident that was caused by a negligent party, contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations for a FREE, no-obligation case review!

Source: Valley Central

Individuals using all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are being involved in major accidents across not only the Rio Grande Valley, but the entire state of Texas.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has reported that Texas has had the most number of ATV-related deaths in the U.S between 1982 to 2017 with 831 reported fatalities. While these vehicles are meant for outdoor recreational purposes, they are a cause of concern in our community and can be extremely hazardous when driven in a dangerous manner.

The McAllen personal injury attorneys at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys want to highlight the dangers of these vehicles and provide families with tips on what NOT to do when riding an ATV.

The Dangers of Riding an ATV

ATVs can weigh over 600 pounds and have very powerful engines that can reach top speeds of 80 mph. The danger in driving an ATV is that they offer little-to-no protection and frequently are not equipped with seatbelts nor any other safety protection devices. One mistake can easily lead to an accident and catastrophic injuries – or in worst cases – a fatality. 

According to the latest report made by the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commision, in the U.S., between 1982 and 2017:

• There were a total of 15,250 ATV-related fatalities.
• 22 percent of all ATV fatalities were children aged 16 and younger.
• 44 percent of all ATV-related children fatalities were children aged 12 or younger.

Rollovers are the leading factor in all ATV-related fatalities.

Factors That Lead to Injuries and Fatalities

• Underage Riders: There is clear indication on every ATV that children under the age of 16 should NOT ride these vehicles. Still, parents and guardians often think these vehicles are harmless for children to use. There is sufficient evidence that shows underage ATV riding is a problem.
• Reckless Driving: Because of powerful engines that let riders travel at high speeds, many inexperienced drivers put themselves in danger by taking unnecessary chances. If the rider is unaware of road conditions, they may not be able to slow down the vehicle in time or avoid dangerous areas on their path.  
• Manufacturing Defects: ATVs are controversial because they are not restricted under federal regulations and often lack sufficient consumer warnings. Manufacturers can be held liable due to faulty features in the vehicle.
• Driving Under the Influence: No matter what kind of vehicle one may be driving, they should NEVER get behind the wheel when under the influence of alcohol or any other substance. It’s that simple. 

Rider Safety Tips

The following are important precautions to take when riding an ATV:

• Wearing the right safety gear can save your life. Wearing a properly-fitted helmet can go a long way when riding an ATV.  Other gear that should be worn include eye-protection gear, jackets or long-sleeved shirts, gloves, long pants and hard boots.
• Only ride during daylight hours.
• Only ride on designated ATV trails and never on public roads or pavements.
• Do not  exceed the number of passengers clearly stated on the ATV warnings.
• Do not let any children or teenagers under the age of 16 or any other inexperienced riders use these vehicles whatsoever.
• Drive only at moderate speeds.
• Do not ride or let anyone else ride these vehicles when under the influence of alcohol or any other substance.

It is extremely important to be educated in all ATV safety rules and precautions.

What to Do in the Event of an Accident

When an accident does happen, it is crucial to contact the authorities to inform them of the accident and seek medical attention IMMEDIATELY.  

After seeking medical care, contact the McAllen personal injury attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys if your accident was caused by another negligent party. We will be able to help you seek financial compensation for the catastrophic injuries you have suffered.

Be sure to gather all the important information you have at your disposal, including photographs of your injuries, photos or video from the scene of the accident, hospital bills, and other pertinent documents.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to an ATV accident, contact J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today at (956) 630-6700 to schedule a FREE no-obligation case evaluation.

A traumatic car accident may leave you with severe injuries that can put you out of work for an indefinite amount of time, as well as keep you from doing basic everyday tasks. While thinking about the time it may take to recover is worrying enough, the last thing victims should concern themselves with is the cost of medical care.

Fortunately, the McAllen car accident lawyers at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to help those in need with unbeatable legal representation. We work hard to deliver justice swiftly.

If you have suffered a broken bone as the result of a car accident, consider the following information. 

Most Common Broken Bone Injuries in a Car Accident

When suffering severe injuries, such as broken bones, life can be very difficult to adjust to. Without proper treatment and care, a bone injury can end up causing long-term issues. 

Some of the most severe injuries that can happen in a car crash include:

• Broken Legs
• Femur Fracture
• Broken Ribs
• Pelvis Fracture (especially common in motorcycle accidents)
• Facial/Skull Fracture (can lead to traumatic brain injury)
• Arm/Wrist Fracture
• Spinal/Back Injuries

How the Severity of Your Injury Affects Your Claim

Naturally, the more severe the bone injury you have suffered, the greater the effect it will have on your claim. Generally, the classification of your bone injury will determine how much you are able to recover.

Bone injury classifications consist of: 

• Hairline Fractures – These are very thin breaks in the bone; some individuals may not immediately realize they have a broken bone, this is why seeking medical treatment is essential. 
• Stable Fractures – The bone is broken in a manner that lines up its ends. 
• Compound Fractures – The bone may be broken in several places, and can include the bone piercing through the skin. Usually, the most severe type of broken bone injury.  
• Displaced Fractures – A piece of bone is broken off from the main section.  
• Transverse Fractures – A horizontal fracture typically caused by outside pressure breaking the bone. 
• Spiral Fractures – The bone is broken in a twisting motion.

What Other Factors Are Taken Into Consideration of My Settlement

While the severity of your injury will certainly play a key position in understanding your potential settlement, there are several other factors that will need to be considered as well, including: 

• Quality of life and if you were left with chronic pain or a permanent disability.
• How much time away from work your injury caused you to miss and if it will affect your ability to return to the same job. 
• Total medical care costs including past, present, and future expenses. 
• The emotional and psychological trauma you were left with. 

Determining the Value of Your Injuries

In order to determine the proper value of your injuries, there are several factors that will have to be taken into consideration. Significant evidence is essential in determining the value of your injuries. Valuable evidence to make a successful claim includes:

• Medical records & medical expense receipts
• Photographs of the accident scene, including when and where it occurred and the injuries that were inflicted
• Photographs of your vehicle’s damages
• Tangible evidence from the scene of the accident such as torn or bloody clothing
• The police report
• Video evidence

Financial Damages That Can Be Recovered 

Depending on the circumstances of your claim, you may be able to recover damages that include: 

• Medical expenses, including rehabilitation, notable surgeries, medical treatment, medication, etc.
• Missing wages for the amount of time you have been unable to work and provide for your family
• Pain and suffering, including public humiliation, mental anguish and lost quality of life
• Loss of consortium
• Wrongful death damages, including funeral and burial expenses

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys That Are Here For You

In the case of a serious accident that leaves you with a broken bone, the experienced and compassionate McAllen car accident attorneys at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to fight tirelessly for you or a loved one in the name of justice.

Not only will we seek a full compensation claim for all of your damages, but we will be able to make sure you will receive the best medical treatment possible in order for you to start living life again. 

Seeking justice and recovery isn’t something one should hesitate about. Contact the McAllen car accident law firm of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today at (956) 630-6700 For a FREE, no-obligation case review today!

On the morning of Tuesday, February 11th, a major three-vehicle accident occurred at 4700 block of East US-83 in Rio Grande City and left a 19-year-old driver in critical condition.

Details About the Accident

According to Rio Grande City PD, the three-way collision occurred in front of McCoy’s Building Supply at approximately 9:57 a.m. A 28-year-old driver of a Chevrolet Avalanche and a 42-year-old driver of an 18-wheeler involved in the collision suffered no significant injuries.

However, the 19-year-old driver of a Chevrolet Malibu was left in critical condition and was rushed to the hospital where he is currently being treated for the injuries. All three of the vehicles were towed away and the specific details of the accident are still currently under investigation. 

The Rio Grande City car accident attorney of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys understand how devastating multi-vehicle crashes can be through the years of representing victims affected by them. The following is important information that illustrates just how serious these accidents are, and what you can do should you be involved in one.

Multi-Vehicle Crashes By the Numbers

According to the most recent data provided by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), In 2018:

• Fatalities related to multi-vehicle accidents across the United States accounted for a total of 17,079 fatalities, which equals out to exactly 47 percent of all deaths that occurred within U.S roadways.
• Texas had a total of 1,802 fatalities involving multi-vehicle accidents, accounting for 49 percent of all vehicle deaths in the entire state that year.
• Out of those nationwide multi-vehicle accident fatalities, 62 percent of large truck occupants that were killed within those crashes involved another large truck.
• 63 percent of all motorcycle fatalities came from being involved in a multi-vehicle accident.

Determining Who Was at Fault 

Multiple vehicle accidents are always tricky to be involved in and always unique in the way they are handled. In order to determine who was the negligent driver that caused the accident, there are multiple factors that have to be considered to determine what exactly led up to the accident. To do so, however, crucial evidence must be reviewed, such as:

• Photographs of any damages that were inflicted to the driver(s) and the vehicle(s).
• Eyewitnesses that saw the accident happen in real-time.
• Police and incident reports.
• Any other relevant piece of evidence that was left at the scene.

What to Do in a Multiple-Vehicle Accident

• Contact the police immediately – Once the authorities have arrived, remain calm and vigilant while they collect the necessary information from all sides. Once a police report is ready, be sure to pick up a copy, as it will be a key piece of evidence when seeking civil action.
• Seek medical attention – Your health has to come first and foremost. If you or a loved one were injured in a multiple-vehicle accident, it is crucial to seek the necessary medical treatment immediately, as you might not be aware of how severe the injuries inflicted might be at the time. Be sure to keep all necessary medical bills, medication receipts, doctor notes, etc. as it can be used as evidence in civil court.
• Gather information and evidence while you can – It is important to exchange names, contact information, and insurance information from all other drivers involved in the accident. Some of the pieces of evidence you are able to collect then and there include:
  • Photographs of the license plate numbers of the other vehicles.

• • Photographs of the scene, including the street signs and any other notable buildings.

• • Photographs of the injuries inflicted on you or anyone else riding with you.

Rely on the Car Accident Lawyer That has Dutifully Served Rio Grande City for Years

Once you have received medical treatment, it is important to get in touch with the Rio Grande City car accident lawyers of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as you possibly can. Our trusted attorneys will be able to sit down with you and/or your loved one and walk you through how the legal process works while evaluating what legal options you have available.

We will fight tooth and nail for you or your loved one so that you can receive the right amount of financial compensation for damages sustained and deliver justice in civil court.

Contact the Rio Grande City car accident lawyer of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today at (956) 630-6700 for a FREE, no-obligation case review today!

Source: Valley Central

On Tuesday, February 4th around 6:45 p.m., a vehicle collided with the back of an 18-wheeler, resulting in the death of both occupants.

About the Accident

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the driver of a Honda Accord failed to control the vehicle’s speed and collided with an 18-wheeler. The passenger in the Honda died on the scene due to major injuries, and the driver was airlifted to a local hospital where she later died.

The driver of the 18-wheeler wasn’t taken to the hospital, and the crash is still under investigation by local authorities.

Semi-Truck and Vehicle Accident Statistics You Need to Know

According to a 2019 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• In 2017, large truck accidents took the lives of 4,761 individuals. Of those that perished:
  • 3,450 (72 percent) were people in other vehicles.
  • 841 (18 percent) were occupants within large trucks.
  • 470 (10 percent) were nonoccupants (e.g. pedestrians, bicyclists, etc)
• That same year, large trucks had accounted for roughly 9 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents.

Notable Truck-Vehicle Crash Factors

The following are a few of the main contributors that often cause large truck accidents:

• Truck Driver Shortage – According to the American Trucker Association, the trucking industry reported a shortage of more than 60,000 in 2018, and experts estimate that 1.1 million new drivers will be needed to keep up with the demands. Fewer truck drivers on the road doesn’t just mean fewer trucks to transport goods, but heavier truckloads that make trucks harder to operate with longer routes and tighter schedules. This can ultimately lead to an increase in “drowsy driving”.
• Drowsy Driving – Drowsy driving led to 72,000 crashes in 2013, and it causes an estimated 6,000 fatal crashes every year. Drowsy driving impairs your ability to pay attention to the road, slows your reaction time, and affects your ability to make good decisions. Drowsy driving is generally caused by a lack of sleep, but it can also be caused by sleep disorders, medications, and drinking alcohol.
• Speeding – Speeding is consistently one of the most common causes of car accidents. While many people wouldn’t consider driving 10 mph over the speed limit as speeding, it can actually increase the risk of a crash by nearly 10 percent. Speeding is never worth the risk it poses, so be sure to follow posted speed limits and drive cautiously at all times.

A McAllen Truck Accident Attorney You Can Trust

Car crashes don’t just affect the people involved; they also affect the victims’ families. If you or a loved one were involved in a truck-vehicle accident, the experienced truck accident attorneys at J. Gonzalez Law Firm can help you navigate the path to recovery.

Don’t hesitate. In the State of Texas, you have a two (2) year period to file a truck accident claim with an experienced lawyer from the time the accident occurred. Failure to file in time could forfeit your chances of earning financial relief aimed to help cover expenses and improve your quality of life after such a traumatic event.

Contact the truck accident attorneys of J. Gonzalez Law Firm at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations today for your FREE legal consultation.

Source: Valley Central

On the morning of Tuesday, January 14th, 2020, a 21-year-old male motorcyclist was tragically struck in an accident after another vehicle failed to give the man the right of way.  

Details About the Incident

According to the Harlingen Police Department, the accident occurred at approximately 7:45 a.m. between 77 Sunshine Strip and Monroe Avenue. The negligent driver of the vehicle was heading southbound, preparing to go into the turning lane to get inside of a restaurant parking lot. 

As he was turning, he cut off the motorcyclist, who had the right of way, and ultimately caused the young man to slam right into the vehicle. 

The 21-year-old victim was rushed into the hospital but eventually passed away soon after. Harlingen PD cited the driver for failure to yield and are still currently investigating the accident.

Motorcycle Accidents By The Numbers

When involved in a serious accident, a motorcyclist tends to suffer far more serious injuries and fatalities over a driver of a larger and enclosed vehicle. And while there are more cars on the road than motorcyclists, the following statistics are just as alarming and should be taken into consideration when sharing the road with them:

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2017:

• There were 5,172 reported motorcyclists killed

• Motorcyclist fatalities happened 27 times more frequently over a passenger car occupant fatality in traffic crashes and accounted for a total of 14 percent in overall traffic fatalities.
• Additionally, 42 percent of all motorcycle accidents involved the other vehicle making a left turn at the same time the motorcyclist was headed towards a straight direction or attempting to pass. 

Things To Keep In Mind When Riding On The Road

The following are some crucial things to keep in mind when riding a motorcycle in Texas roadways:

• Wear the necessary protective gear, especially a helmet: Wearing the right gear can ultimately save your life one day. This includes protecting your arms, legs, and feet with a jacket or long-sleeved shirt, gloves, pants, and boots while wearing the right helmet.
• Make yourself visible and be attentive to your surroundings: It is critical to make yourself physically visible to everyone you are sharing the road with. Reflective vests and riding equipment can do the job–especially at night–but also staying out of blind spots carries just as much weight.\
• Follow all laws and regulations, as well as responsibly: In order to avoid a tragic accident, all responsible motorcyclists follow all appropriate speed limits, traffic lights, and lane markings. Being a responsible rider also means avoiding any potential distractions while operating their bike by refraining from drinking alcohol, using any other controlled substance, or using a cell phone while operating the vehicle.

Seek Civil Justice In The Event Of A Tragic Loss

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident–or lost someone who has–because of a negligent driver, do not hesitate to contact the Brownsville car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys as soon as possible.

We will fight to make sure all your physical and traumatic damages will be rightfully compensated so that you and your family can focus on recovering.

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys at 956.630.6700, or visit us at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation now.

Source: Valley Central

On the night of Wednesday, January 8th, at approximately 9:20 p.m., a 24-year-old  man tragically lost his life in a crash after losing control of his vehicle.

Details About the Accident 

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the man ultimately lost control while negotiating a curve, swerved off of the road, and eventually struck his 2015 gray Chrysler 200 into a tree.

The accident took place on FM 88 and Mile 21 Road, just north of Elsa. DPS also stated that the man was alone when the accident took place and no other vehicles were involved.

Single-Vehicle Crash Statistics You Need to Know

According to data provided by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), it was reported that in 2018:

• There was a total of 1,289 single vehicles, run-off road-related fatalities.

• Single-vehicle crashes resulted in 35.42 percent of the state’s overall motor vehicle fatalities for that year.

Additionally, a report conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) stated that single-vehicle crashes accounted for 53 percent of all motor vehicle crash fatalities in the United States.

Notable Single-Vehicle Crash Factors

The following are some of the major factors that commonly tie into single-vehicle accidents:

• Distracted driving – Perhaps the most common factor of all vehicle accidents comes from the driver not giving their full, undivided attention to the road ahead of them. Texting and driving has been a huge problem across the United States and tends to be the main reason behind most distracted driving cases. Other distractions a driver can encounter include eating while driving, changing the music on the radio (or having it play too loud), and even conversations or arguments with other passengers.
• Intoxicated driving – Driving under the influence can be the most dangerous and most tragic way of losing a life. Not only are you putting yourself in danger, but the rest of the vehicles you are sharing the road with are at risk as well. If you are too intoxicated to drive, have a designated driver with you or consider using a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft to get you home safely.
• Absurd driving behavior – When a driver is recklessly speeding, it puts other drivers in a very dangerous position. Speed limits and road signs/signals were created to keep us all safe on the road, and it is our duty to adhere to them.
• Driver Fatigue – At times, drivers may feel ill or extremely tired due to a long drive or a long day at work. The more severe the case, the bigger the risk of a car accident. Getting quality rest is your best defense against these types of accidents.
• Weather conditions – The most dangerous driving conditions come from heavy rains as they can cause roadways to become extremely slippery, putting everyone on the road in danger. This is also a major factor in single-vehicle crashes.
• Unsafe road conditions – Besides wet pavement and weather, some roadways might not be in good condition to drive on. Roads filled with potholes, lack of lighting, or lack of proper street signs can all contribute to single-vehicle crashes.

McAllen Car Accident Attorneys That Can Help You Recover

It’s never easy to lose a loved one, especially when their lives have been taken too young and in a tragic, unexpected manner. Just know you are not alone during this difficult time.

The McAllen car accident attorneys of J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys are here to help if you have fallen victim to a single-vehicle accident caused by the actions, or inactions, of a negligent party.

Contact the J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys today at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations for your FREE legal consultation today.

Source: Valley Central

A deadly five-car collision that left one man dead marked the number 4 top news story of the Rio Grande Valley in the year 2019. 

Details About the Deadly Falfurrias Multi-Car Collision

On April 30, 2019, a crash involving several 18-wheeler vehicles resulted in the closure of State Highway 285 between Falfurrias and Riviera. 

The collision involved five different vehicles and resulted in the death of one truck driver. The exact cause of the pile-up was never specified.

What You Should Know About Multiple-Vehicle Crashes

A crash involving several cars can happen within a matter of seconds. The injuries that individuals face in these types of accidents can be more severe than those suffered in an average car crash because your vehicle is at risk of impact from the rear, the front, and the sides.

If you have been hit by one or more cars, consider taking the following actions:

1. Stay Safe – If your car isn’t totaled or can work, try and move out of the way of traffic, where the chances of getting struck again are greater. If you cannot do so safely, or if moving would worse injury, remain where you are until given the okay from the police or medical staff.
2. Call the Authorities – These scenes can be chaotic. Contact the police and call for an ambulance as soon as possible, as parties are likely to be injured. Seek medical attention to assess/treat injuries, and collect the police officer’s information so that you can reach out later for a copy of the police report. 
3. Get the Accident Report – Police will conduct an accident report at the scene, taking note of possible contributing factors like weather conditions and tire marks that demonstrate speeding. This information is critical to determining liability and could be your best piece of evidence that can help you win financial relief for your injuries.
4. Seek an Experienced Car Accident Attorney – Texas follows a “Modified Comparative Fault Rule”. This means that each party will be held accountable for the degree of fault they contribute in an accident.

If you are involved in a multi-car crash, know that you may be eligible for compensation if you are responsible for less than 50 percent for the accident. A skilled car accident attorney has the means of investigating the causes of the accident to help hold liable parties accountable.

Hardworking McAllen Car Accident Attorneys Helping Victims Recover

Our staff and legal team work diligently to help victims of the Rio Grande Valley achieve their best recovery from unexpected tragedies like car accidents. Victims of multi-car crashes have the right to pursue compensation, but recovering such funds may be hard to come by alone. Luckily, our legal assistance you can build a strong case for you, in addition to: 

• Handle diverse cases of personal injury.
• Reach out to medical experts to gain a better understanding of your injury.
• Hire private investigators to secure strong evidence.
• Contact accident reconstruction specialists to give us a better understanding of your car accident.
• Speak to your physicians, doctors, medical staff, etc. about your accident.

Victims of multi-car crashes should seek committed McAllen car accident lawyers at J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys. We want to help you and your family recover from the accident, as best you can. 

Contact us at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, or Rio Grande City locations for your hassle-free, zero-charge initial case review today.

Source: Valley Central

A fatal car crash is under investigation after a pedestrian was killed by a driver on Saturday afternoon.

Details of the Accident

The auto-pedestrian crash occurred on N. Minnesota Ave. in Brownsville, at approximately 6:45 p.m on December 28. The victim was an unidentified 39-year-old male. Authorities report the driver of the vehicle causing the accident remained on the scene and is working with the police. 

The causes leading to the crash remain under investigation. 

What is an Auto-Pedestrian Crash?

An auto-pedestrian crash is defined as a car accident where a pedestrian, or a person walking along a road or area, is injured by a vehicle. To highlight the total impact of this type of accident, the National Highway Traffic Association (NHTSA) pointed out in a June 2019 report that more than 37,000 Americans died in these types of accidents in 2018 alone.

Auto-pedestrian accidents are usually caused by the negligence of the driver. Common causes of these accidents often include:

• Speeding – Driving above the speed limit.
• Distracted Driving – Texting, calling, changing the radio station or song, eating, grooming, etc.
• Fatigue – Driving while tired or sleepy.
• Weather Conditions – Driving in severe weather.
• Driving Under the Influence – Driving while drunk or under the influence of a controlled substance.
• Defective Auto Parts – Driving with faulty or non-functional auto parts, whether knowingly or unknowingly.

Brownsville’s Troubling Driving Record

In 2017, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported 3,583 total crashes in Brownsville, 1,437 of which resulted in possible injuries and 11 of which resulted in fatalities. This number remains at a record high.

Currently, Brownsville is ranked 17th in the State of Texas for the highest number of deaths caused by car crashes and 1st in the Rio Grande Valley. Remain alert and drive with caution when in the area.

Brownsville Car Accident Attorneys Fighting for You

Being involved in an auto-pedestrian crash can be severely traumatizing and troubling for all involved. Whether you were the driver or pedestrian, crashes like these can result in physical injuries and cause long and short-term financial and emotional hardship.

Luckily, your Brownsville car accident attorney at J.Gonzalez Injury Attorneys can help you seek compensation for damages and injuries caused by an auto-pedestrian accident. Don’t suffer in silence any longer.

Contact J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys at any of our McAllen, Brownsville, and Rio Grande City locations for a FREE, no-obligation case evaluation today.

Source: Valley Central

Rio Grande Valley natives know Interstate 37 as the major corridor from San Antonio to Corpus Christi. It is the most commonly used road traveled from that north-to-south bound stretch and, unfortunately, it is also one of the most dangerous highways in the country, according to a recent report. 

SleepJunkie conducted a study called “Falling Asleep at the Wheel” and rated Interstate 37 as one of the most deadly in relation to accidents caused by driver fatigue. This highway accounts for the highest volume of fatal drowsy driving accidents in the country, holding up at 18 percent. 

If you or a loved one have fallen victim to a drowsy driving accident, seek the trustworthy South Texas legal team of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys by calling (956) 232-8970 for a FREE initial case review.

The Dangers of Interstate 37

Those who have traveled along Interstate 37 before know that there is rarely a place to pull over to rest along this long stretch of road. The journey across the 145-mile section can be dangerous, especially if driving while fatigued or drowsy.

With few towns, gas stations and rest stops along the way, it is mostly a non-stop drive. Commercial drivers often take this path to deliver their freight along the coastal region. This means it is up to them to rest before or after the long stretch, or at the few truck stops in between. 

Not only is the highway isolated, but it is also extremely dark at night. There are many sections that lack phone signal. All these factors combined increase the dangers associated with driving along this road. 

Common Causes of Drowsy Driving

As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 795 motor vehicle fatalities related to drowsy driving occurred in 2017.

Although a lack of proper rest is the most common reason for drowsy driving, other causes can include:

• Sleep disorders left untreated
• Medications that induce sleep
• Intoxicated driving
• Shift work

When a driver gets behind the wheel while tired, their ability to notice critical details while driving diminishes, reaction times are slowed and the ability to make good choices decreases. 

Drowsy driving is negligent driving. Those who participate in drowsy driving not only put their own life at risk but the lives of others also. Victims of drowsy driving accidents may be able to seek compensation for any damages they suffer as the result of another party’s negligence.

The Dangers of Getting Behind the Wheel While Sleepy

Fatigue, drowsiness, and sleepiness are all related to drowsy driving. Never get behind the wheel if you are especially tired, have to travel a long distance and have been up an exorbitant amount of time, have taken medication that is known to cause sleepiness, or believe that you are likely to fall asleep while driving. 

The most common time for a drowsy driving accident to occur is between midnight and six a.m. Generally, these accidents involve only a single driver.

Drowsy driving accidents are most frequent on dimly-lit roads, where speed limits tend to be higher. Fatalities can occur when lethargic drivers speed out of their lane, veering onto the path of another or to the side of the freeway. 

Injured by a Drowsy Driver? Seek Compensation Now!

All drivers must maintain the rules of the road, constantly paying full attention to their surroundings.

Along a dark interstate where stops are rarely available, this is even more crucial. Fatigued driving can induce symptoms similar to intoxicated driving, depending on how sleep-deprived the individual is.

If you have been hit by a drowsy driver, seek support from the devoted team of McAllen lawyers at J Gonzalez Injury Attorneys by calling (956) 232-8970 TODAY.