Houston, TX (November 22, 2023) A Houston Police Department officer was injured by a DUI driver on the Interstate 10 Katy Freeway on Tuesday night, according to authorities. The crash happened near Dairy Ashford Road when the officer was trying to block lanes of the highway due to a previous collision.
A suspected drunk driver sped down the interstate and slammed into the patrol car, according to authorities. The driver then ended up in the westbound lanes and was hit by two other vehicles.
Have you or someone you know been injured in an accident? Reach out to us at any time at 844-966-0965
Emergency crews arrived at the scene and found both the police officer and the suspected DUI driver with injuries. The drivers of the other two vehicles involved received minor injuries in the collision on Interstate 10. Paramedics took both the police officer and the at-fault driver to a local hospital for treatment for injuries they sustained in the crash.
Crews had to clean the area of glass and debris and investigators worked the scene to find evidence to help determine what exactly happened. Authorities believe that alcohol was a factor in this collision.
Liability In Houston Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to Texas Vehicle Code 545152, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Houston Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to the officer injured in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Houston car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
