Route 287 in Texas is notoriously unsafe because of many factors, including congestion, distracted driving, and driver inexperience. Drunk driving may also play a factor; the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drunk driving in Texas is higher than the national average.
If you suffered a collision while traveling on Route 287, you could have options for recovering damages. A car accident lawyer with experience in these matters can assess your case and pursue compensation.
Route 287 Is Unsafe Because of Many Hazards
Route 287 is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas. There are several reasons for this, but some of the most hazardous conditions include:
Congested Roadways
With four lanes often lined with bumper-to-bumper traffic, it is easy to see how Route 287 can easily cause motor vehicle accidents. The more cars on the road, the more likely accidents are to happen. Even when just one driver acts negligently, everyone on the roadway is at risk of harm. That’s why multi-car collisions are so prevalent on this stretch of highway.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is another one of the most common ways collisions occur along Route 287. While getting stuck in traffic and navigating the busy highway, motorists can quickly become distracted cognitively, manually, or visually.
Chatting with passengers, adjusting the navigation system, or doing anything on a smartphone can cause the driver to become distracted. These behaviors can result in catastrophic accidents, such as:
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Sideswipe accidents
- Rollover accidents
- Single-vehicle accidents
- Multi-vehicle accidents
Inexperienced Drivers
Inexperienced drivers are another common cause of car accidents on Route 287. When newly licensed drivers take to the roads, they may not fully grasp their moral and legal obligation to drive safely. Inexperienced drivers may have difficulty merging, rely too heavily on GPS, and speed.
Intoxicated Driving
While the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) outlaws drunk driving, that doesn’t deter many motorists from the practice. When someone drives while intoxicated, they’re more likely to speed, engage in distracted driving, and otherwise endanger other road users. All of these things increase the likelihood of serious collisions.
Hazardous Roadway Conditions
Route 287 is nearly 1,800 miles long. Given this expanse, hazardous conditions are bound to occur. Examples include:
- Potholes
- Uneven lanes
- Malfunctioning traffic signals
- Missing or obscured signage
- Roadkill
- Crossing animals (like deer)
The TxDOT must maintain all roadways and keep them safe for motorists. If it fails, injured claimants can seek damages.
For a free legal consultation, call (972) 938-1234
What to Do After an Accident on Route 287
You might feel unsure about your next steps if you were recently involved in a car accident on Route 287 in Texas. Fortunately, you are not alone. Here are some of the most important things you should do after a collision:
Get Your Vehicle to Safety
Route 287 is a busy highway. If you are involved in a collision, you should move yourself and your vehicle to safety. If your accident occurred in the middle of the four-lane highway, move your car over to either side of the road, if possible. But why?
As noted, multi-car collisions happen frequently on Route 287. If your car interrupts the flow of traffic, it could suffer additional damage––and you could suffer additional injuries.
Call 911 and Emergency Responders
As soon as possible after the accident, call medical responders and the police. Even if the accident appears to be minor, having the police arrive preserves valuable evidence that can later support your case. The police can file an accident report that outlines the involved parties, details of the accident, and other relevant matters.
Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
Gather as much evidence as you can at the accident scene. If there were witnesses to the accident, now is an excellent time to get their names, contact information, and statements if possible.
You should also photograph your injuries, your vehicle, and the accident scene. The more information you have to support your case, the better.
Understand the Statute of Limitations
Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 16.003 reports that you generally have two years from the date of a collision to sue. Exceptions exist, possibly giving you more time to file. By connecting with an attorney at your earliest convenience, you can preserve your right to litigation.
Meet With Our Texas Car Accident Team Today
Route 287 is notoriously dangerous. If you suffered injuries in an accident someone else caused, you can seek damages through a claim or lawsuit. What’s more, you can partner with a Texas car accident lawyer from Clay Jenkins & Associates.
Learn more about your legal options when you contact our office for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can answer your questions and chart a path for recovering damages.
Call or text (972) 938-1234 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form