Top Causes of Car Accidents in Carrollton, Texas and How to Avoid Them
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of serious injury in Texas, and Carrollton is no exception. Busy intersections, heavy commuter traffic, and rapid growth in the Dallas–Fort Worth area mean local drivers face real risks every time they get behind the wheel. While some crashes are unavoidable, many can be prevented when you understand what causes them and how to respond.
This guide explains the top causes of car accidents in Carrollton, why they happen, and what you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones on the road.
Why Car Accidents Are So Common in Carrollton
Carrollton sits at the crossroads of several major highways, including the President George Bush Turnpike, I-35E, and State Highway 121. With thousands of vehicles traveling through daily, collisions can happen in the blink of an eye. Add in growing residential neighborhoods, school zones, and distracted commuters, and the conditions are ripe for accidents.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported over 15,000 crashes in Denton County alone in 2023, with many of those accidents happening in Carrollton and nearby cities. Understanding what leads to these wrecks is the first step toward avoiding them.
Top Causes of Car Accidents in Carrollton
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is the leading cause of crashes in Texas. Smartphones, GPS systems, and even eating while driving can pull attention away from the road. According to TxDOT, nearly 1 in 5 crashes involve driver distraction.
How to avoid it:
Silence or put away your phone before driving.
Set your GPS before leaving.
Pull over if you need to read or send a message.
2. Speeding
Speeding increases both the risk and severity of accidents. On highways like I-35E, where traffic already moves fast, just a few extra miles per hour can make it harder to stop in time.
How to avoid it:
Follow posted speed limits, especially in school zones and neighborhoods.
Leave earlier for your destination to avoid rushing.
Use cruise control on highways to maintain steady speeds.
3. Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drug impairment remain a significant danger on Carrollton roads. Even small amounts of alcohol slow reaction times and cloud judgment, increasing crash risks.
How to avoid it:
Never drive after drinking or using impairing substances.
Plan ahead with a rideshare, taxi, or designated driver.
Report suspected impaired drivers to law enforcement.
4. Aggressive Driving and Road Rage
Tailgating, weaving in and out of lanes, and refusing to yield are common aggressive behaviors that lead to wrecks. Carrollton’s congested intersections, especially around Belt Line Road and Josey Lane, can trigger frustration behind the wheel.
How to avoid it:
Stay calm, even when traffic is heavy.
Allow plenty of space between your car and others.
Avoid engaging with hostile drivers.
5. Failure to Yield
Many accidents in Carrollton happen at intersections when a driver fails to yield the right of way. This includes left-turn crashes and collisions when merging.
How to avoid it:
Always look twice before turning or merging.
Pay attention to traffic lights, signs, and pedestrian crossings.
Remember that yielding is about preventing collisions, not just following rules.
6. Weather Conditions
Rain, fog, and icy roads create dangerous conditions that often lead to multi-car pileups in Texas. Even though Carrollton doesn’t get frequent snow, slick roads during sudden storms are hazardous.
How to avoid it:
Reduce speed during poor weather.
Increase following distance.
Keep tires, brakes, and wipers in good condition.
7. Driver Fatigue
Tired driving is as dangerous as impaired driving. Long shifts, late nights, or long commutes in and out of Carrollton can lead to drowsy driving crashes.
How to avoid it:
Get adequate rest before driving.
Pull over and rest if you feel drowsy.
Avoid relying on caffeine alone to stay alert.
8. Unsafe Lane Changes
Carrollton’s busy highways and crowded city streets mean lane-change accidents are common. Failing to signal, not checking blind spots, or cutting across multiple lanes can cause collisions.
How to avoid it:
Always signal before changing lanes.
Check mirrors and blind spots.
Move one lane at a time and only when safe.
9. Teen and Inexperienced Drivers
Carrollton’s growing population includes many young drivers just learning the rules of the road. Inexperience increases the likelihood of mistakes that lead to wrecks.
How to avoid it:
Practice defensive driving when sharing the road with new drivers.
Parents should model safe driving habits for teens.
Enroll young drivers in certified driver education programs.
10. Vehicle Defects or Poor Maintenance
Bald tires, faulty brakes, or broken headlights can turn any drive into a dangerous one. Even responsible drivers can cause accidents if their car isn’t roadworthy.
How to avoid it:
Keep up with regular vehicle maintenance.
Perform quick checks before long trips.
Address warning lights immediately.
Common Injuries in Carrollton Car Accidents
Even minor crashes can leave drivers and passengers with lasting injuries. Some of the most common injuries seen in local collisions include:
Whiplash and neck injuries
Back and spinal cord injuries
Cuts, bruises, and permanent scarring
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and time away from work.
What to Do If You’ve Been in a Car Accident in Carrollton
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence, taking the right steps can make all the difference:
Call 911 and get medical attention.
Collect evidence, including photos, witness statements, and police reports.
Notify your insurance company, but avoid making recorded statements without legal advice.
Speak with a personal injury lawyer who can explain your options and help you pursue fair compensation.
At Carrollton Injury Law, we put the personal back into personal injury law. We understand the stress and uncertainty after a car accident, and we are here to guide you through every step.
How to Protect Yourself and Others on Carrollton Roads
While you can’t control how others drive, you can lower your risks by:
Practicing defensive driving.
Staying alert in high-risk areas like busy intersections and highways.
Never driving while distracted or impaired.
Ensuring your car is always safe to drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most dangerous intersections in Carrollton?
Intersections like Belt Line Road at Josey Lane and Hebron Parkway at Old Denton Road are often reported as high-crash areas due to heavy traffic.
If I’m partially at fault for a crash, can I still recover damages?
Yes, Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. You may still seek compensation if you were less than 51% at fault.
How long do I have to file a car accident injury claim in Texas?
Generally, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas.
Should I see a doctor even if I feel fine after an accident?
Yes. Many car accident injuries, such as whiplash or concussions, may not show immediate symptoms. A medical exam protects your health and documents your injuries.
Do I need a lawyer after a minor accident?
Even if the crash seems minor, speaking with a lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure insurance companies treat you fairly.
Take the Next Step
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Carrollton, you don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Our legal team at Carrollton Injury Law is here to listen, guide, and fight for you. Let us help you pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
