If you or a loved one was hurt in a Houston highway crash, you may be experiencing emotional, physical, and financial stress. The Bellaire-based highway accident attorney, Stephen Goldenzweig, understands how overwhelming this can be and is ready to stand by your side. We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. Our local knowledge of Houston’s high-traffic areas, including the 610 West Loop, ensures that you’ll have a legal ally who genuinely understands these roads and the issues that lead to devastating accidents.
Why Choose Stephen Goldenzweig for Your Highway Crash Case
Stephen Goldenzweig has devoted his practice to advocating for those who have suffered in serious collisions. His mission is to ensure that big insurance companies don’t take advantage of accident victims who are already in a vulnerable state. By leveraging a thorough understanding of local traffic patterns, the Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group are better equipped to address the unique challenges that arise on our busy freeways.
Our track record reflects both compassion and a commitment to justice. Stephen Goldenzweig and his colleagues take pride in giving each case the personal attention it needs, whether you’re dealing with complex multi-vehicle crashes or severe injuries that require extensive care. We believe in removing financial barriers for injured clients, so we operate on a contingency fee structure: you never pay unless we win. That’s how strongly we believe in delivering real results.
“Goldenzweig law group did a wonderful job handling my injury case. I actually switched to this law firm from another one due to miscommunication, unprofessionalism, and untimeliness. Cynthia initially spoke with me about my case and gave me so much useful information that I hadn’t received from the previous law firm. Stephen Goldenzweig was prompt, and effectively communicative with updates! Goldenzweig law group has been a great experience! I’m glad to have found this law firm as they successfully settled my case.” – Ariana
Houston’s Highways: High-Risk Roads and Eye-Opening Statistics
Houston consistently ranks among the busiest and most dangerous driving environments in the nation. In recent years, Texas has recorded over 15,000 serious injury crashes, and one person is reportedly killed in a crash approximately every two hours statewide. Harris County, which includes Houston, leads the state in annual accident totals. One report indicated that Houston’s highways alone see over 2,800 serious injuries and more than 600 fatalities each year.
Several major freeways contribute to this risk:
- I-45 (Gulf and North Freeways)
- I-69/US-59 (Southwest and Eastex Freeways)
- I-10 (Katy and Baytown East Freeways)
- The 610 Loop
- Beltway 8
These thoroughfares are renowned for heavy congestion, fast speed limits, and ongoing construction work. I-45 through Houston, for example, has been cited as one of the deadliest highways in the country, with dozens of fatal wrecks reported each year. Given these statistics, having a Houston highway crash attorney at Goldenzweig Law Group who knows these roads inside and out can be a tremendous advantage.
Why Are There So Many Crashes on Houston Highways?
Congestion, speed, construction, and driver inattention all merge to create a perfect storm on Houston’s highways. Every day, commuters confront unpredictable stop-and-go traffic or, conversely, high-speed stretches where drivers push 70 to 85 mph. This fluctuation in speeds can trigger chain-reaction crashes in mere seconds.
Another issue is driver negligence, including texting, calling, and other distractions that can cause someone to drift or brake suddenly. Drunk or drugged driving remains a serious concern on highways, especially late at night. Work zone hazards also loom large: Texas ranks first in the nation for construction zone fatalities, and lane shifts or poorly marked routes often raise the likelihood of collisions. Finally, when inclement weather hits—particularly heavy rainfall—slick roads magnify even small mistakes, leading to multi-vehicle pileups.
Common Causes of Houston Highway Crashes
- High Traffic Volume and Congestion: Overcrowded lanes and frequent stop-and-go conditions.
- Driver Negligence (Distracted, DUI, etc.): Texting, intoxicated driving, or aggressive maneuvers.
- Construction Zones and Road Conditions: Lane reductions and complex detours raise collision risks.
- Weather and Visibility: Rain and flooding can create slippery surfaces and reduce driver awareness.
The Devastating Impact of Highway Accidents
High speeds increase the force of any collision, which is why highway accidents often involve severe or even fatal injuries. It’s not uncommon for a single crash to spiral into a multi-car pileup on a crowded freeway, with one vehicle bouncing into others. Certain collisions also lead to rollovers, associated with especially high fatality and injury rates.
In Houston, 1–2 fatal crashes occur nearly every day, underscoring the immense harm and loss these wrecks inflict. Survivors commonly report traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and severe burns. Even when victims do recover physically, the emotional and financial aftermath can linger for years. If a crash causes the tragic loss of a loved one, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death case.
Common Types of Highway Crash Cases We Handle
At the Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group, we routinely assist clients suffering from a range of accident scenarios. While every crash is unique, our aim is to let you know that we have the background to handle challenges both common and complex:
- Rear-End Collisions: Routine in stop-and-go traffic, these crashes frequently cause whiplash and soft-tissue injuries.
- Head-On Collisions: Often sparked by drivers going the wrong way or crossing medians, leading to catastrophic outcomes.
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups: One collision can quickly draw in multiple vehicles, making liability decisions complicated.
- Drunk Driving Accidents: Impaired drivers at high speeds risk catastrophic damage to themselves and others.
- Commercial Truck Accidents: Harris County saw over 5,700 commercial vehicle collisions in a recent year, many of them on major freeways.
- Motorcycle Crashes: Motorcyclists on fast highways face severe injury risk due to minimal protection.
- Road Construction Zone Accidents: Narrowed lanes, shifting shoulders, and sudden stops often trigger wrecks.
- Distracted Driving Crashes: Any lapse in attention—from texts to changing the radio—can result in a tragedy at highway speeds.
Uncommon but Serious Highway Crash Scenarios
Some accidents stand out as exceptionally rare or complex. Stephen Goldenzweig is prepared to address even these unusual circumstances:
- Median Crossover Crashes: Vehicles that breach a highway barrier can collide head-on with oncoming traffic.
- Wrong-Way Collisions: Drivers who enter a freeway in the wrong direction risk particularly violent high-speed crashes.
- Debris-Related Accidents: Objects falling off trucks or cars can cause other drivers to swerve and collide.
- Police Chase Incidents: Bystanders may be struck in high-speed pursuits, raising questions about fault and possible immunity issues.
- Construction Vehicle Collisions: Equipment or vehicles operating in highway work zones may create sudden dangers, with multiple liable parties.
What to Do After a Houston Highway Accident
Knowing the critical steps to protect yourself can make a big difference. Stephen Goldenzweig encourages accident victims to:
- Ensure Safety and Call 911: Get vehicles off the road if possible and summon police and medical help.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries appear days later; prompt evaluation keeps you healthy and creates a clear medical record.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: Photos of debris, skid marks, and vehicle positions can be invaluable, especially on large freeways like I-69 or I-10.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid apologies or discussing details about blame to anyone but the authorities.
- Contact an Attorney Before Insurers: Insurance adjusters may push for quick statements. The Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group can handle all communications to protect your interests.
Determining Liability for a Highway Crash in Houston
Texas law applies modified comparative fault, meaning you can still secure compensation if you’re no more than 50% at fault. When investigating highway accidents, Stephen Goldenzweig looks at every potential contributing factor, including:
- Negligent Drivers: Anyone who drove recklessly, while distracted, or under the influence.
- Commercial Entities: If a semi-truck is involved, the trucking company or a cargo loader could share fault.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: Mechanical failures, like defective brakes, can shift liability onto manufacturers.
- Government or Contractors: Missing signs, dangerous road construction, or poor design may implicate public entities.
- Pedestrians/Cyclists on Highways: Rarely, individuals on foot or bicycle on freeways can create hazards and be held partially responsible.
You should also know that if you are partly to blame, your total compensation may be reduced proportionately. However, the Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group often work with accident reconstruction experts and other professionals to investigate thoroughly and minimize unfair blame on our clients.
Seeking Compensation: Damages You Can Recover
When negligence contributes to a highway crash, you may be entitled to significant damages. Common examples include:
- Medical Expenses: Past, current, and future treatment, surgeries, and rehabilitative care.
- Lost Wages and Future Earnings: Compensation for work missed and any reduced ability to earn in the future.
- Pain and Suffering: Both physical pain and mental anguish, including conditions like PTSD or anxiety.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement of a vehicle, along with other property lost in the crash.
- Wrongful Death Damages: Burial costs, loss of income, and loss of companionship for families who’ve lost a loved one.
Since Texas does not typically cap these damages in personal injury cases, Stephen Goldenzweig pursues the full sum you deserve, giving special attention to long-term medical needs and any permanent lifestyle changes.
The Legal Process for a Highway Accident Claim in Texas
Stephen Goldenzweig follows a systematic approach to ensure your case is handled efficiently and thoroughly:
- Investigation: We collect evidence, gather witness accounts, and consult accident reconstruction specialists if needed.
- Filing the Claim: Our team files claims with the at-fault parties’ insurers and manages all communications.
- Negotiation and Settlement: Many cases settle when insurers realize we won’t accept an unfair offer. Timelines vary from several months to a year or more.
- Litigation if Needed: If a fair settlement isn’t proposed, the Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group will file a lawsuit and take the case to court.
- Resolution: Whether by settlement or a jury verdict, we aim to secure the compensation you need. Funds are then disbursed accordingly.
Keep in mind that Texas generally imposes a two-year deadline from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Claims involving government agencies can have notice periods as short as 90 days. Acting promptly avoids missing your window to seek damages.
How Much Does a Highway Crash Attorney Cost?
Stephen Goldenzweig knows that many victims hesitate to hire a lawyer because of financial fears. That’s why our team works solely on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any legal fees upfront, and if we’re unsuccessful in recovering compensation for you, you don’t owe us anything. Coupled with our free consultations, this fee arrangement ensures you can get the experienced advocacy you need without worrying about how to afford it.
Get Help from a Houston Highway Accident Attorney
If you’ve been hurt on a Houston highway, don’t face the legal, medical, and financial fallout alone. Call (713) 561-5003 or visit our office at 6575 West Loop South, Suite 420, Bellaire, TX 77401 for a free consultation. The Houston highway crash attorneys at Goldenzweig Law Group have the resources, local knowledge, and compassionate approach to guide you through each step of the legal process.
Time is critical. The sooner you speak with Stephen Goldenzweig, the quicker we can preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and begin building a case aimed at maximum compensation. Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what truly matters—your health, your loved ones, and your future.