Winter Driving in Texas: Tips to Prevent Cold-Weather Car Accidents

Texas may not be known for harsh winters, but when cold weather hits, it often catches drivers off guard. From unexpected ice storms to freezing rain and sleet, winter conditions can turn Texas roads into dangerous paths—especially for those unaccustomed to driving in such weather.

Even a light dusting of snow or black ice can cause major accidents, pile-ups, and injuries. As Texas personal injury lawyers, we’ve seen how winter car accidents can disrupt lives and leave victims with serious injuries and mounting medical bills. The good news? Many cold-weather crashes are preventable with the right precautions.

Here are our top tips to help you stay safe when driving in Texas during the winter months.

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1. Check the Weather Before You Travel

Before you head out, especially early in the morning or late at night, check the local weather forecast and road conditions. TxDOT and local news outlets often post alerts about icy bridges, road closures, or dangerous conditions.

If conditions are severe, delay your trip. Arriving late is better than not arriving at all.

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2. Slow Down—Even if the Roads Look Clear

Cold-weather accidents often happen because drivers assume the roads are safe when they’re not. Black ice is nearly invisible and can form on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas.

Drive below the speed limit when temperatures drop below freezing. Give yourself extra time to stop, accelerate slowly, and take turns with caution.

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3. Keep a Safe Distance Between Vehicles

Tailgating is risky in any weather, but in winter, it’s especially dangerous. Your stopping distance increases on wet or icy roads, so increase your following distance to at least 6 seconds from the car in front of you.

This gives you more time to react if the vehicle ahead loses control or stops suddenly.

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4. Know How to Handle a Skid

If your vehicle starts to skid:

• Take your foot off the gas

• Steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go

• Do not slam on the brakes

Panicking can make the situation worse. Staying calm and steering gently can help you regain control.

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5. Keep Your Vehicle Maintained

Your car needs to be winter-ready, even in Texas. Make sure:

• Your tires have good tread and are properly inflated

• Your battery is in good condition

• Your windshield wipers work and your washer fluid is full

• Your brakes are functioning properly

Also, keep your gas tank at least half full during winter to avoid fuel line freeze-up and to ensure you’re prepared for unexpected delays.

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6. Use Your Headlights and Hazard Lights Wisely

In heavy fog, sleet, or snow, turn on your low-beam headlights to increase visibility—not your high beams, which can reflect off precipitation and make visibility worse.

If your vehicle becomes disabled or you’re stuck, turn on your hazard lights and move off the road if possible.

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7. Avoid Cruise Control on Slippery Roads

Cruise control is great for long trips, but not in winter weather. If you hit a patch of ice or slick road while using cruise control, your vehicle could accelerate unexpectedly or lose traction, making it harder to regain control.

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8. Pack a Winter Emergency Kit

You may not think about it often in Texas, but a basic winter emergency kit can be a lifesaver. Include:

• Blankets

• Flashlight and extra batteries

• Jumper cables

• Non-perishable snacks and bottled water

• First aid kit

• Phone charger

• Ice scraper or de-icing spray

If you’re stranded, these items can help you stay safe and warm until help arrives.

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9. Stay Off the Roads If You Don’t Have to Drive

When icy conditions hit, the safest choice is often to stay home. Many accidents occur because drivers underestimate how quickly conditions can deteriorate. Employers, schools, and municipalities often issue closures or delays—follow their lead when possible.

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What to Do If You’re in a Winter Car Accident in Texas

Even if you take all the right precautions, accidents can still happen. If you’re involved in a crash:

1. Check yourself and passengers for injuries.

2. Call 911 to report the accident.

3. Take photos of the scene, including road conditions, vehicle damage, and any injuries.

4. Exchange information with the other driver.

5. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine—some injuries take time to appear.

6. Contact an experienced Texas car accident lawyer.

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Final Thoughts

Winter in Texas may be unpredictable, but your safety doesn’t have to be. By preparing your vehicle, driving cautiously, and knowing how to handle unexpected conditions, you can significantly reduce your risk of an accident.

And if the worst happens, know that our personal injury law firm is here to help you recover—physically, emotionally, and financially.

Spring Break Safety in Texas: Attorneys Warn of Drunk Driving Risks

Spring break is a time of celebration and escape for students and families across Texas. With warm weather, music festivals, beach trips, and parties, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. But with all the festivities comes a serious risk—an alarming increase in drunk driving incidents on Texas roads.

As personal injury attorneys, we see firsthand the tragic consequences of impaired driving. That’s why we’re urging everyone to take spring break safety seriously and understand how to prevent accidents during this high-risk time.

Why Spring Break Is So Dangerous on the Roads

1. Increased Traffic Volume
Spring break brings a surge of drivers on the road—students traveling to the coast, families heading on vacation, and tourists visiting cities across Texas. With more cars on the highways, the risk of crashes naturally rises.

2. Higher Rates of Impaired Driving
Drinking and partying are a big part of many spring break plans. Unfortunately, this also leads to a spike in drunk driving. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), March is one of the most dangerous months for alcohol-related crashes.

3. Young and Inexperienced Drivers
College students make up a large portion of spring break travelers. Many are relatively new drivers who may not be prepared to handle highway travel, heavy traffic, or nighttime driving—especially after drinking.

4. Fatigue and Distraction
Late nights, long drives, and constant activity can lead to drowsy or distracted driving. Both are major contributors to car accidents during spring break.

Spring Break Safety Tips to Prevent Drunk Driving Accidents

Plan Ahead for Transportation
If you know you’ll be drinking, designate a sober driver, use a rideshare app, or schedule a taxi in advance. Never assume someone else will stay sober.

Use Free Ride Programs
Many Texas cities offer free or discounted ride programs during spring break and holidays. Take advantage of these resources to get home safely without risking your life or someone else’s.

Host Responsibly
If you’re throwing a party, make sure to offer non-alcoholic drinks and stop serving alcohol a few hours before the event ends. Encourage guests to stay the night if they’ve been drinking.

Stay Alert Behind the Wheel
If you’re driving during spring break—especially at night—be extra cautious. Keep an eye out for swerving drivers, stay well-rested, and avoid distractions.

Talk to Your Teens or College-Aged Children
Open communication about the dangers of drunk driving can make a difference. Make sure they understand the risks and how to stay safe.

Legal Consequences of Drunk Driving in Texas

Drunk driving is a criminal offense in Texas with serious penalties, including:

• Jail time

• License suspension

• Hefty fines

• Permanent criminal record

If someone causes an accident while driving drunk, they can also be held civilly liable for damages. Victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

What to Do If You’re Injured in a Spring Break Accident

If you or a loved one is injured in a drunk driving crash during spring break, it’s important to act quickly:

• Call 911 and report the accident

• Seek immediate medical attention

• Document the scene with photos and witness statements

• Don’t discuss fault with the other driver or on social media

• Contact a Texas personal injury lawyer

Our legal team has extensive experience handling drunk driving accident cases. We can help you understand your rights, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Final Thoughts

Spring break should be fun—but safety must come first. By planning ahead, staying alert, and making smart choices, we can all help reduce the number of drunk driving accidents on Texas roads. And if the worst happens, know that help is available.

Safety Tips for Teenage Drivers Every Texas Parent Should Know

Getting a driver’s license is a major milestone for teenagers—but it also comes with serious responsibility for parents. Teen drivers are among the most at-risk groups on Texas roads, with higher crash rates than any other age group. In fact, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that thousands of accidents involving teen drivers occur each year, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities.

As personal injury attorneys who’ve worked with families affected by teen driving accidents, we know that knowledge and preparation can save lives. That’s why we’ve put together this guide of essential safety tips every Texas parents should share with their teenage driver.

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1. Parents should Lead by Example

Parents are the most influential driving instructors their children will ever have. If you speed, check your phone while driving, or roll through stop signs—your teen will see that behavior as acceptable.

What to Do:
Practice defensive driving in front of your teen. Always wear your seatbelt, avoid distractions, and obey traffic laws. Talk openly about how you make driving decisions and explain why safety always comes first.

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2. Enforce a Zero-Tolerance Policy for Phones

Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents involving teens. Texting, checking social media, or even using navigation apps can take a teen’s focus off the road for just a few seconds—enough time to cause a serious crash.

Texas law bans texting while driving, and for drivers under 18, all handheld phone use is prohibited.

What to Do:
Use apps or phone settings that block texts and notifications while driving. Set strict rules about phone use, and model that behavior yourself. Encourage your teen to pull over in a safe place if they need to make a call or check directions.

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3. Limit Night Driving

Statistics show that crash risk increases dramatically at night, especially for teen drivers. Poor visibility, fatigue, and limited driving experience can make nighttime driving dangerous.

Texas law restricts drivers under 18 from operating a vehicle between midnight and 5 a.m. during the first 12 months unless for work, school, or an emergency.

What to Do:
Limit your teen’s night driving to necessary trips, and consider setting an earlier curfew than state law requires. Remind your teen that night driving requires extra caution—even on familiar roads.

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4. Restrict Passengers During the First Year

Teen drivers are far more likely to be distracted when driving with friends. The risk of a fatal crash increases with each additional passenger.

Under Texas’ Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program, new drivers under 18 may not carry more than one passenger under 21 (who isn’t a family member) during the first 12 months of driving.

What to Do:
Talk to your teen about the risks of driving with friends. Reinforce the importance of staying focused and resisting peer pressure while behind the wheel.

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5. Emphasize the Dangers of Speeding

Speeding is one of the top causes of teen car accidents in Texas. Many teens underestimate the time and distance required to stop a speeding car or maneuver around a hazard.

What to Do:
Teach your teen to always follow posted speed limits—and to slow down in bad weather, construction zones, and school areas. Remind them that arriving late is better than not arriving at all.

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6. Never Drink and Drive—And Watch for Others Who Might

Even though it’s illegal for anyone under 21 to consume alcohol, underage drinking still occurs—and so do tragic accidents involving impaired teen drivers. Teens must also be alert for other impaired drivers, especially late at night or during holidays.

What to Do:
Establish a no-judgment rule: if your teen finds themselves in a situation where alcohol is involved, they can always call you for a ride. Provide education about the consequences of impaired driving, both legal and physical.

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7. Create a Parent-Teen Driving Contract

One of the most effective tools you can use is a written agreement that outlines your expectations and your teen’s responsibilities.

A contract can cover:

• Seatbelt use at all times

• No phone or texting while driving

• Speed limits and curfews

• Passenger restrictions

• Reporting accidents or tickets

• Consequences for breaking the rules

What to Do:
Have your teen sign the agreement and keep a copy visible in the car. Revisit the contract regularly and adjust as your teen gains more experience.

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8. Know the Legal and Insurance Ramifications of Accidents

Many parents don’t realize that parents can be held financially responsible if their teen causes an accident. Additionally, your auto insurance premiums may rise significantly after an at-fault crash.

If your teen is injured in a car accident caused by someone else, a Texas personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional trauma.

What to Do:
Make sure your insurance policy provides adequate coverage and consider adding uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. If your teen is involved in a crash, consult with an attorney early to understand your legal rights.

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Final Thoughts: Teaching Teens to Drive Smart Saves Lives

Driving is a privilege, not a right—and with it comes enormous responsibility. By taking the time to educate your teen, model good behavior, and set clear expectations, you’re setting them up for success and helping prevent tragedy on Texas roads.

Whether you’re preparing your teen to drive or you’ve already handed them the keys, it’s never too late to have meaningful conversations about safety. With the right preparation and support, your teen can become a confident, cautious, and responsible driver.

Traveling Through Texas Flood Zones: Car Accident Lawyers Share Safety Tips

Texas is no stranger to extreme weather, and when heavy rain hits, flash floods can turn highways and neighborhoods into dangerous flood zones within minutes. With many areas of the state prone to flooding, understanding how to navigate flood zones is critical for every driver. As personal injury lawyers who’ve handled countless flood-related car accident cases, we’re sharing important safety tips to help protect you and your passengers on the road.

Why Flooding Is a Serious Risk in Texas

Texas experiences more flood-related fatalities than any other state in the U.S. The reason? The combination of unpredictable weather patterns, low-lying roadways, and a fast-developing population means more people are caught unaware in flood-prone zones. What’s more, many drivers still underestimate how dangerous floodwaters can be—or don’t know how to respond when they encounter them.

Even a few inches of moving water can sweep a car off the road. A foot of water is enough to float most vehicles, and two feet can carry away large SUVs and trucks. That’s why officials across Texas emphasize the life-saving rule: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

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Top Safety Tips for Driving Through Texas Flood Zones

1. Check the Weather Before You Drive

Always review the weather forecast, especially if your route takes you through areas known to flood. Use apps like FEMA’s or your local news station’s mobile alerts to stay updated on flood warnings.

Even if the rain has stopped, water levels may still rise hours later, and flash floods can happen with little warning.

2. Know the High-Risk Areas in Your Region

Many Texas cities—like Houston, Austin, and San Antonio—have mapped flood zones and high-water areas. If you drive the same routes frequently, learn where flood-prone zones are located. Watch for signs warning of low-water crossings or flood alerts.

If your GPS reroutes you through unfamiliar backroads or neighborhoods, be extra cautious—rural roads often flood first and lack proper drainage.

3. Never Drive Through Floodwater

This cannot be overstated: Never attempt to drive through flooded roads. It’s difficult to determine water depth and whether the road beneath is still intact. Water can erode roadways, leaving deep holes or completely washed-out surfaces beneath what looks like shallow water.

Many drivers who think they can make it across find themselves trapped—or worse. Emergency responders frequently rescue people from cars stuck in floodwaters, and unfortunately, not all rescues are successful.

4. Avoid Night Travel During Heavy Rain

Flood risks increase significantly at night because of limited visibility. If you must travel after dark, slow down and avoid areas with known drainage problems.

If your headlights reflect off water, stop and reassess your route. Don’t take chances by “testing” how deep the water is.

5. If You’re Trapped in Rising Water, Stay Calm and Act Quickly

If water begins to rise around your car:

• Unbuckle your seatbelt.

• Roll down the windows—power windows may stop working if water damages the electrical system.

• Exit the vehicle as soon as possible. Don’t wait for it to be fully submerged.

• Climb to the roof and call 911 or wave for help.

Never wait until the car is filled with water. In fast-moving floods, time is critical.

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Legal Liability in Flood-Related Accidents

You might think that no one is responsible for flood accidents—but that’s not always true. If your crash occurred due to:

• Inadequate signage warning of flood zones,

• Poor road maintenance that caused water pooling,

• A construction company’s failure to secure a safe site during rain, or

• A city’s failure to implement drainage solutions in known trouble spots,

… then you may have grounds for a personal injury claim.

A skilled car accident lawyer in Texas can investigate whether negligence played a role in your crash, help gather evidence (such as weather data, emergency response logs, and city maintenance records), and guide you toward the compensation you may deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and more.

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What Insurance Covers in Flood Accidents

Texas drivers are often surprised to learn that basic liability insurance does not cover flood damage to their own vehicle. To receive coverage, you must carry comprehensive insurance, which covers non-collision-related events such as flooding, hail, theft, and fire.

If your car was damaged or totaled in a flood and you have comprehensive coverage, your insurance company may be responsible for repair or replacement—minus your deductible. However, if another party’s negligence contributed to the flood-related crash, you may be able to pursue compensation beyond your policy limits.

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Final Thoughts: Caution Is Key in Flood Zones

Floods are unpredictable and can be deadly. As car accident attorneys in Texas, we’ve seen firsthand how quickly a bad weather situation can become tragic on the road. The best advice we can give: never underestimate water, and always put safety ahead of speed or convenience.

If you or someone you love has been involved in a flood-related car accident and suspect negligence played a role, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury attorney. Getting legal advice early can make a big difference in your recovery process and your ability to move forward.

Train Safety in Texas: The Quiet Danger You Can’t Ignore

Train Safety are a part of everyday life in Texas. From major freight lines to local rail crossings in small towns, the state’s vast railway system supports commerce and connects communities. However, despite their importance, trains pose a quiet but serious danger to Texas drivers and pedestrians. According to the Federal Railroad Administration, Texas consistently ranks among the top states for rail crossing accidents and fatalities. Understanding how to stay safe near train tracks is essential to prevent tragedy and ensure everyone gets home safely.

Why Train Safety Is a Bigger Issue Than Most Realize

Trains don’t stop quickly. The average freight train traveling at 55 mph can take more than a mile to come to a full stop after the emergency brakes are applied. Unlike cars, trains cannot swerve to avoid obstacles. Once a vehicle or person is on the tracks, it may already be too late.

Texas has more than 10,000 public highway-rail grade crossings, many of which are in busy urban or rural areas with limited visibility. In addition, the state has seen a rise in distracted driving incidents and an increasing number of pedestrians using tracks as shortcuts or photo ops.

Common Causes of Train Accidents in Texas

Several preventable factors contribute to the high rate of train-related incidents in Texas:

• Ignoring crossing signals: Drivers who try to beat the train by crossing after warning lights flash often misjudge its speed.

• Stopped vehicles on tracks: In traffic-heavy areas, some vehicles may end up trapped on the tracks due to congestion or red lights.

• Poor visibility at crossings: In rural zones without active warning lights or gates, drivers may not see an approaching train until it’s too late.

• Pedestrian shortcuts: People walking across train tracks illegally, especially near urban train stations, risk being hit by oncoming trains.

Texas Train Safety Laws

Texas law requires drivers to stop no less than 15 feet and no more than 50 feet from the nearest rail at a crossing when:

• A signal device is flashing.

• A gate is down or being lowered.

• A train is visible and approaching.

• A train sounds a warning signal and is close enough to pose a hazard.

Violating these laws can lead to hefty fines—and far worse consequences. Motorists should remember that it’s not just illegal to go around lowered gates; it’s potentially deadly.

Key Train Safety Tips for Drivers and Pedestrians

Staying safe around railroads starts with awareness and caution. Here are essential safety tips:

1. Never try to beat a train
If lights are flashing or gates are lowering, stop. Trains often appear slower than they are due to their size and distance.

2. Expect a train on any track at any time
Just because you don’t see or hear a train doesn’t mean one isn’t coming. Always treat railroad crossings with respect.

3. Stay off the tracks
Whether on foot, a bike, or in a car, never linger on train tracks. Don’t stop on the tracks for any reason, especially in traffic.

4. Use designated crossings only
Pedestrians should never cross tracks where there’s no marked crossing. It’s both dangerous and illegal.

5. Be alert near crossings
Turn down the music, put away your phone, and pay attention to surroundings, especially when driving through rural or less-developed areas.

Technology and Infrastructure: What’s Being Done?

Several cities and counties in Texas have been working on improving crossing infrastructure. Some efforts include:

• Installing better lighting and warning systems.

• Adding more protective gates.

• Replacing passive warning signs with active alerts.

• Launching public awareness campaigns to educate drivers about train safety.

Despite these measures, driver awareness remains the most crucial factor in preventing railroad-related tragedies.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Gets Stuck on the Tracks

If your car stalls or gets stuck on the train tracks:

1. Exit the vehicle immediately, even if no train is in sight.

2. Move away from the tracks at an angle to avoid potential flying debris if a collision occurs.

3. Locate the blue and white emergency sign near the crossing. This sign contains a number to call and a crossing ID. Provide this info to the railroad dispatcher immediately.

Legal Considerations After a Train Accident

Train accidents can be complex, involving multiple parties including railroad companies, municipalities, and insurance providers. If you or a loved one is involved in a train-related accident in Texas, speaking with a personal injury lawyer who understands both state and federal railway laws is essential. Your attorney can help you determine liability, deal with insurance companies, and seek compensation for injuries or wrongful death.

Final Thoughts

Train safety in Texas is an ongoing concern that requires attention from both officials and everyday citizens. As drivers and pedestrians, we have the responsibility to stay alert, obey all warning signs, and never underestimate the power and speed of an oncoming train. These quiet dangers can be avoided—if we make the right choices.