Getting into an accident on a bridge is especially dangerous, with narrow lanes, no shoulders to pull over onto, and high traffic. If you’re in an accident on a bridge in Texas or Louisiana, you don’t need to face insurance companies alone. Shamieh Law has over 40 years of combined experience helping victims of car accidents in Texas and Louisiana.
Why Accidents on Bridges Are So Dangerous
Driving on a bridge is dangerous by itself, with narrow lanes and often no shoulders to pull over onto, as well as barriers to prevent vehicles from going over the edge. The limited space available for drivers on bridges can result in pile-up accidents.
If you get into an accident, you or the other vehicle may be pinned between a car and the bridge barrier, or be left in traffic lanes while you wait for help. Weather conditions like fog or rain can also play a role by limiting visibility. In rare cases, the bridge’s maintenance could play a part in your accident if a part of the road crumbles or another part of the infrastructure fails.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Bridge Accident
If you get into a car accident, it can cause you to go into shock, especially if it occurs on a bridge, which can be a scary situation. Many victims experience trauma in the days and weeks after a crash, which can make it difficult to know what to do next—especially if they weren’t at fault. No matter what, never leave the scene of an accident, especially in Texas, and wait for emergency services. After an accident on a bridge, take the following steps:
- Stay calm and assess your safety first
- Turn on your hazard lights to stay visible to other drivers
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Do not leave your vehicle unless it is safe
- Only move your vehicle if you’re directed to by authorities
- Document the accident scene with photos, videos, and witness statements.
- Obtain the police report number
- Consult an experienced attorney
Unique Legal Considerations in Bridge Accidents
Accidents on bridges are dangerous and can involve multiple liable parties, especially in pile-ups or if the bridge itself has issues. Consulting an attorney before settling is essential, particularly if you want a fair settlement. Insurance companies might offer a low initial settlement to keep payouts down, but you shouldn’t accept it without first talking to an attorney. You may also have to deal with multiple parties, such as other drivers or government agencies.
Who May Be Liable?
Car accidents may involve multiple responsible parties or causes, and determining liability after a bridge accident can be complex. Responsibility lies with the negligent party who failed to act with care. This could be a driver who was not paying attention.
If the condition of the road or bridge contributed to the accident, those responsible for the bridge’s maintenance could be considered liable, such as contractors or government entities in charge of maintaining the road and signage.
Insurance Challenges in Multi-Vehicle Pileups
If your bridge accident involves a multi-vehicle pile-up, it can be difficult for insurance companies to determine and agree on liability. With many parties involved, figuring out exactly what happened and what caused the chain reaction can be complicated, especially if any drivers are uninsured.
Injuries Commonly Seen in Bridge Accidents
Car accidents can cause serious injuries, even if the accident is at a lower speed. Common injuries seen after an accident on bridges include:
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
- Spinal or neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Head trauma or Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Emotional distress and PTSD
How Shamieh Law Helps Bridge Accident Victims
Proving fault in a car accident, especially on a bridge, can be difficult. After an accident, it’s crucial to collect as much evidence as possible, like photos of the accident scene, and also to get medical attention. It’s also important to keep documentation of everything related to the accident and get legal guidance as soon as possible.
Shamieh Law has a history of handling car accidents with complex circumstances and serious injuries. Our attorneys know Louisiana and Texas well and can provide first-hand knowledge about local bridges, roadway conditions, and municipalities. We will handle all interactions with insurance companies and will aggressively negotiate with them to ensure you get the maximum compensation.
The time after an accident is stressful and uncertain. It can feel overwhelming to deal with injuries and recovery, let alone insurance or medical bills. Our team knows how difficult it can be to recover from a car accident, and we will do everything we can to advocate for you and your family.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, Contact us today or call (469) 813-7332.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Sue the City or State if Poor Bridge Conditions Caused the Crash?
Yes, you can file a lawsuit against a city or state for a crash that resulted from poor bridge conditions. Pursuing claims against government entities can be more difficult, as there are different filing deadlines compared to the regular statute of limitations.
What if Multiple Drivers Caused the Accident?
Louisiana and Texas both use comparative fault rules, which means each party is assigned a percentage of blame for the crash. The amount of compensation you can recover depends on your share of fault.
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim After a Bridge Accident in Texas?
The Texas statute of limitations is typically two years from the date of the accident, and missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation.
What Damages Can I Recover After a Bridge Accident?
If you’re in a car accident on a bridge, you may be eligible to recover economic and non-monetary damages. These damages can cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and wrongful death damages.