Attorney Blog

How Deadly Are Houston Drunk Driving Accidents?

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

We all know that there are certain dangers that all Houston drivers face when they turn on their cars. However, we can all agree that the dangers are increased dramatically when alcohol is introduced into the equation.

Are you aware that there is a debate as to whether the legal age limit of consuming alcohol should be lowered and that the blood alcohol concentration should possibly be decreased? No matter your position, there is no debate as to the seriousness of drinking and driving. The statistics don’t lie.

According to the Mother’s Against Drunk Driving (MADD) website, someone is fatally injured in a drunk driving accident every 45 minutes in America. As a matter of fact, in 2008, there were 11,773 fatalities reported in accidents involving alcohol. That is staggering.

What’s even more shocking is the fact that about one-third of all drivers that have been arrested and convicted of driving under the influence are repeat offenders. That means drivers are not learning their lessons.

As you know, an alcohol related accident can be serious and lead to a permanent disability. It may even lead to death. Drinking and driving is a serious matter.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an Houston drunk driving accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Trucker Texting Ban May Reduce Houston Truck Accidents

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

We all know how dangerous texting and driving can be. Research shows that drivers can become distracted by texting enough to take their eyes off the road and become involved in a Houston accident. Imagine how serious that crash can be if it involves a semi.

This concern has prompted President Barack Obama to institute a national band on truckers and commercial bus drivers from texting while operating their vehicles. As a matter of fact, each offense can put their license at risk and may even subject them to fines up to $2,750 per infraction.

“Today we’re sending a strong message,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. “We don’t merely expect you to share the road responsibly with other travelers, we require you to do so.”

The problem for Texas officials is that there are no current state laws banning truckers and commercial bus drivers from texting while driving. The Texas Department of Pubic Safety is now scrambling to find ways to enforce the new national band.

We can all rest assured that the Texas roadways will be safer. The trucker driving next to you and your family will have their eyes on the road.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Houston truck accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston truck accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Reducing Injuries in Houston Car Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)26841 — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

As you probably know, car accidents plague the Houston roadways. Almost everyday someone is injured in an accident. A lot of these injuries involve children and young people.

Would you be shocked to know that the use of child safety seats are below national goals? Also, 38 percent of all car accident deaths involve alcohol.

If you are a parent, then you need to know that motor vehicle-related injuries kill more children and young adults in America than any other factor. Tens of thousands of people are killed in car accidents annually.

Fortunately, the Task Force on Community Preventive Services compiled a list of recommendations to help reduce crash-related injuries, such as making sure that child safety seats are used properly. This can help lower the need of hospitalization for children by 69 percent.

The Task Force also recommends that all occupants are properly buckled up when traveling in a motorized vehicle. This suggestion may seem obvious, but you would be surprised to know how many travelers fail to do so.

Lastly, the Task Force recommends that all drivers keep from drinking and driving and make sure no under age drinkers drive while intoxicated.

As you can imagine, the failure to follow any of these recommendations can put you, your loved ones and other citizens at risk. The outcome could be fatal.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Prognosis for Burn Victims of Truck Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25876 — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

We all can imagine how catastrophic a collision with a big rig can be, especially, when the truck is carrying hundreds of gallons of fuel. The outcome can resemble an explosive scene out of a Hollywood movie.

The problem is, an accident involving a big rig, is not as trivial as a scene from a Hollywood film. A victim may suffer serious burn injuries that can have life-altering ramifications and in some cases, may prove fatal.

Have you ever wondered how today’s technological advancements affect serious burn injuries? Probably not. In the past, a victim who suffered burns on over half of their body generally died from those injuries. Believe it or not, now, if a victim suffers burns up to 90 percent of their body, they stand a good chance of surviving.

However, the prognosis still may not be good. There are serious complications that can arise from burns. Along with the immense pain, a severely burned victim may suffer extreme swelling and blistering, damage to their blood vessels and the possibility of developing a life-threatening infection.

A burn victim may also become unable to work resulting in a possible loss of wages.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a Texas truck accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston truck accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Death on the High Seas Act Benefits

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)25277 — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

If you have lost a loved one, you are facing an incredibly difficult time in your life. Many problems follow the death of a spouse, family member or partner, especially if he or she provides much-needed income. There is a law that allows survivors of deceased seamen to pursue compensation, which will help offset the financial loss.

The Death on the High Seas Act (DOHSA) gives the surviving family members and dependants the opportunity to recover financial benefits. Under this law, benefits are available when the death was due to negligence or an unseaworthy vessel. The requirement is that the death had to have taken place on the high seas beyond three miles from the shore of any U.S. state, District of Columbia, U.S. territory or dependency.

A spouse, parent, child, or dependent relative can file a claim to receive DOHSA benefits. A legal action can be made to recover damages that include any monetary loss incurred from the seaman’s death. There is only a three-year window to file the claim, which starts from the date of the offshore accident.

For more information or legal advice, contact Houston Maritime Lawyer Steve Lee at 800-232-3711 or 713-921-4171. Also, read the article titled, What Every Seaman’s Family Needs to Know about the Death on the High Seas Act, for additional details on this topic.

How to Avoid a Car Accident this Holiday Season

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23770 — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

As you can imagine, the Houston roads can become more dangerous during the holiday season with many people traveling to holiday events. This means that your risk of being in an auto accident is greater. The good news is that there are several precautions that you can take to keep yourself and your family safe during the holidays.

Before leaving for an event, you should check road and weather conditions. A bad storm can pose hazards that increase your chances of being in an accident. If the weather is too bad, you should think about possibly skipping the event.

Make sure that you and your passengers are properly buckled up, especially children. Unfortunately, many people needlessly lose their loves because they forget to fasten their seatbelts.

You should always avoid speeding, even if you are running late. Speeding is a major contributing factor to accidents on the roadways.

Heavy traffic can also be a recipe for disaster, especially during heavy commute times. Consider leaving a little bit early or later for an event, to avoid the dangers of heavy traffic.

Finally, though it may be obvious, avoid driving if you have been drinking. Reports show that alcohol can reduce your reaction times to dangers on the roadways. Alcohol and driving are never a good combination.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident lawyer at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Many Fatal Car Accidents Involve Young Drivers

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)23463 — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

As you can imagine, many fatal car accidents involve young drivers. As a matter of fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), young drivers account for nearly one-fifth of all fatalities on American roads.

What is considered a young driver? Young drivers have been classified as drivers between the ages of 15 to 20. Studies show that young drivers lack the driving experience that older drivers possess. Their lack of maturity on the roads leads to driving behavior that is considered risky.

Car accidents are claiming the lives of too many young people. According to the NHTSA, car accidents are the leading cause of death for people between the ages of 15 and 20.

A car accident caused by a young driver can lead to life altering injuries including death. Fortunately, specific programs have been created to inform young drivers about driving dangers, as well as to discourage risky driving behaviors.

Many of us think that we are safer on rural roads. Don’t be so sure. According to the NHTSA, more than half of the fatal car accidents involving young people happen on rural roads.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a Houston car accident, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

What Makes a Vessel Unseaworthy?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)22302 — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

Imagine being in danger every time you go to work and not knowing it. Many maritime workers are at risk every day.

There are many factors involved when determining a vessel to be unseaworthy. However, most people don’t realize that a vessel does not have to be in danger of sinking to be considered unseaworthy. A vessel can be deemed unseaworthy by having an unsafe environment to live and work in, as well as from lacking proper safety gear and equipment.

Other factors that maritime workers should be concerned with are faulty machinery, inadequate crew, dangerous conditions, poor maintenance and crew member violence. All of these factors can cause a vessel to become unseaworthy. More importantly, it can lead to serious injuries, including death.

If you have been injured on an unseaworthy vessel, there are some things you should know. First, there are federal laws, such as the Jones Act, that protect maritime workers. Second, if you have been injured, you have three years from the date of your injury to file your claim. It can be a long process for you and your attorney to prepare your case; therefore, you should seek legal advice and file your claim as soon as possible.

If you or someone you know has been injured due to an unseaworthy vessel, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston maritime lawyer at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Does Cell Phone Use Increase the Chance of Being in a Car Accident?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)21617 — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

We see it almost everyday. People talking on their cell phones while operating a vehicle. Is it that surprising, though? A recent study by the Cellular Telecommunications & Internet Association revealed that as of February 2008, over 254 million people had cell phones.

The problem with cell phones is that studies are showing that there are links between cell phone use and car accidents.

We have all seen it. Drivers become distracted while talking on the phone and are not paying close enough attention to the road. The same studies show that the distraction of a cell phone while driving can impact driving performance and can increase reaction times and travel speeds. How many of us have been behind someone traveling in the fast lane going well under the minimum speed limit? It’s not only frustrating, it is also dangerous.

As a matter of fact, a 2005 study in Australia revealed that drivers using their cell phones while driving were four times as likely to be involved in car accidents injuring themselves or others.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a car accident caused by a distracted driver, you should contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident attorney at (713) 921-4171 or (800) 232-3711.

Texas Jackknife Accident Can Cause Serious Injuries

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)20159 — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

When a large truck jackknifes, it often leads to a multiple car pileup and numerous injuries. Jackknifing is a term that refers to a situation where the trailer of a large truck swings out to one side, making a 90 degree angle. This type of accident got its name because this 90 degree angle resembles that of a jackknife in its protective handle.

Jackknifing may be caused from a slick surface, poor weather conditions, downshifting, brake failure, accelerating on a low friction surface or failing to properly negotiate a curve. The trailer then swings to the side, as the large truck skids along the road.

Due to the nature of Houston truck accidents, these collisions often result in catastrophic injuries. Neck injury, spinal cord damage, head trauma, broken pelvis, coma, burns and death have been known to be caused by serious 18-wheeler accidents. In some situations, the trucker, trucking company or other responsible party can be held accountable and you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

A large truck accident in Texas is usually life changing. If you have been injured in a semi accident, you should contact an experienced Houston truck accident attorney who can explain your legal options. Contact Attorney Steve Lee today at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 for more information.

Drunk Driving Accidents Claim Thousands of Lives

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)19809 — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Getting behind the wheel when you are drunk is dangerous. Most of us already know this fact, but still, every year thousands of people die in drunk driving accidents across the country.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), 8,027 drivers died in drunk driving accidents nationally in 2008. Driver with blood alcohol levels of 0.08 percent and above were involved in these DWI accidents.

It doesn’t take a lot to reach a 0.08 BAC. For some people, as little as three drinks can cause them to be too drunk to drive. Intoxicated drivers are a hazard not just to themselves, but to the other people on the road. The sad truth is that many deaths could have been prevented. Alcohol impairment is still a major factor in many car accidents.

Researchers have found that when a person with a BAC of 0.15 or above gets behind the wheel, his or her chance of dying in a collision is extremely high.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Houston car accident caused by a drunk driver, you have legal rights and can hold that person accountable. Contact Attorney Steve Lee at 713-921-4171 or 1-800-232-3711 for more information.

It Just Got Tougher for Drivers in Texas Drunk Driving Accidents

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)18271 — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

The law just got tougher for drivers involved in Texas drunk driving accidents. A new Texas DWI law was just enacted that will require a suspected drunken driver to take a blood test without warrant if he or she was involved in a car accident that caused injuries.

According to the new law, if a police officer feels that a driver may be intoxicated and that driver has children in the car or a history of DWI offenses, the officer can mandate a blood alcohol test. Before this law was passed, it was estimated that about half of Texas drivers suspected of drunk driving refused blood or breath tests.

Thousands of people die every year in Texas car accidents and many of these collisions are caused by drunk drivers. Hopefully this new law will crack down on drunk drivers and prevent future drunk driving accidents in Texas.

If you or a family member has been injured in a Texas drunk driving accident, you need to contact a Houston car accident lawyer who will be able to explain your legal rights. You may be able to obtain compensation for your injuries that resulted from the crash. Call Attorney Steve Lee at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 today.

A Texas Truck Accident Can Cause a Deadly Broken Pelvis

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)17891 — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Texas truck accident is especially devastating since the outcome of such an accident is often fatal. Serious injuries have been associated with truck accidents, including pelvic fractures. A broken pelvis can be deadly.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident and has a pelvic fracture, don’t discount the seriousness of this injury. Since the pelvis cradles numerous organs and many blood vessels and nerves pass through it, a fracture can lead to a significant amount of bleeding. Not only is a pelvic fracture painful, but it can also cause internal damage.

Truck accidents happen for many reasons and the fault can often lie with either driver. However, if the crash was caused by the trucker or had to do with negligence by the trucking company, the accident victim can and should hold them accountable. Expenses from a pelvic fracture can add up quickly and the trucking company should be responsible for these costs, in addition to other damages, including pain and suffering, lost wages and so on.

Contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston car accident attorney, for legal advice at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711. If you have been injured, you shouldn’t delay in talking with an accident attorney.

A Texas Drunk Driving Accident Can Cause Paralysis & Other Injuries

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)16677 — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

When a driver makes the decision to get behind the wheel drunk, they not only put their life in danger, but the lives of the other drivers around them. Too often there are reports of Texas drunk driving accidents that lead to permanent injuries and death. For those victims who are injured in Texas DWI accidents, their lives are changed forever. Many accident victims are left paralyzed and forced to face a life of pain.

Paralysis is a reality for numerous victims of drunk driving accidents. In some cases, the paralysis affects the majority of the body, which is known as quadriplegia. Sometimes paralysis only impacts the lower region of the body, known as paraplegia, and the victim may not be able to walk as a result.

When someone becomes paralyzed, they usually incur substantial medical expenses in treatment, surgery and rehabilitation. There are also health complications associated with paralysis, such as bed sores, thrombosis, osteoporosis, frozen joints and respiratory problems. Medical bills can quickly add up for a person who is paralyzed.

If you or someone you love has become paralyzed from a Texas drunk driving accident, you can and should hold the driver liable. You may be able to obtain financial compensation that would not only cover your medical expenses and lost income, but also damages such as pain and suffering. Contact attorney Steve Lee, a Houston car accident lawyer, at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 for legal advice.

Traumatic Brain Injury Is Serious If Caused By Texas Truck Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)16278 — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you or a family member has been injured in a Texas truck accident, chances are the injuries are substantial. Truck wrecks have been known to result in traumatic brain injury, which can be fatal. It is important to understand the prognosis of traumatic brain injury and your rights as an injured victim.

Traumatic brain injury, also known as TBI, head trauma or brain injury, occurs when the head violently hits an object or an object penetrates through the skull. This type of injury can range from mild to serious when it comes to severity. It may lead to permanent brain damage and can change the life of the injured victim.

Some of the warning signs of traumatic brain injury include memory loss, headache, confusion, depression, vision problems, irritability and ringing in the ears. There are additional symptoms associated with a severe TBI case, such as persistent headache, vomiting, seizures, inability to awaken from sleep, pupil dilation, slurred speech and loss of coordination.

Truck accidents are usually devastating. If you have been injured in a Texas 18-wheeler accident that was caused by negligence, you can and should hold the trucker and trucking company accountable. You may be entitled to financial compensation for your injuries. Contact Attorney Steve Lee, an experienced Houston truck accident attorney, at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 for legal advice.

Texas Construction Workers Sometimes Suffer from Heat Stroke

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)15089 — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

As the temperatures rise in Texas, so does the risk of serious heat-induced illnesses. Construction workers are especially in danger of developing heat stroke, heat exhaustion or other sickness caused by the heat. These workers spend long hours in the sun and heat, which can lead to serious health problems.

Working in hot weather, and in the case of Texas, a humid environment, can be life threatening. It is crucial to recognize the signs of a severe heat illness and take precautions to minimize the chances of death.

Heat stroke is the most serious of all heat related illnesses and the symptoms include confusion, irrational behavior, high body temperature, loss of consciousness, convulsions and hot, dry skin. This condition can be fatal and it is vital that emergency medical treatment be pursued.

Heat exhaustion can also be dangerous, even though it is not as serious as heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, dizziness, thirst, nausea, giddiness and lightheadedness.

Employers are recommended by OSHA to provide cool water, reduce physical demands during the heat of the day and provide air-conditioned areas for their employees.

If you or a loved one has suffered heat stroke from working on a construction site, contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston construction attorney, at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 for legal advice.

Watch Out for Truckers Carrying Fraudulent Licenses in Texas

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)14688 — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Did you know that licensing fraud has become a major problem within the trucking industry? Knowing this frightening fact makes you think twice about your safety as you drive pass a large tractor trailer in Texas.

The federal government has discovered that numerous truckers are carrying fraudulent licenses that were obtained through a variety of schemes. Licensing fraud is a huge safety concern, as many of these truckers are to blame for serious Texas truck accident cases. Some of the scams involving commercial licenses include license-for-sale schemes, inadequate third-party testing, falsified tests and fake medical certificates.

Driving a large truck takes skill and thorough training. When truckers get behind the wheel without sufficient instruction and skill sets, they may not know how to react in time to avoid a collision or may not know how to operate the truck properly. What is even more alarming is that drivers who have medical conditions that could cause them to lose control of their vehicles are able to obtain these fraudulent licenses. As a result, these medically unfit truckers are causing serious tractor trailer accidents that sometimes prove to be fatal.

If you have been injured in a Texas truck accident, you need to contact an attorney immediately. Call Steve Lee, an experienced Houston truck accident attorney, today at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711.

Compensation for Maritime Injury Cases

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)14222 — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

Working on the high seas is not for the faint of heart. It is a challenging career that puts you in danger on a regular basis. Heavy machinery, tackle, equipment and slippery decks, as well as treacherous weather and water conditions make maritime accidents inevitable. If you are a seaman and have sustained a maritime injury, there is compensation available under a federal law known as the Jones Act.

Under the Jones Act, a maritime worker can pursue compensation for injuries caused by an offshore accident. If there was any negligence on part of the vessel owner, captain or crewmembers, you may have a Jones Act claim. An unseaworthy vessel, which could mean that a danger existed, could also entitle you to compensation.

Jones Act damages generally include pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, past and future lost wages, past and future medical expenses and other costs associated with the maritime injury.

These types of cases can be complex, which is why you should contact a maritime injury lawyer following a maritime accident. Also, there is a statute of limitations as to when you can file your Jones Act claim, so you need to take action immediately. Contact Attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 today.

Texas Construction Accidents Often Involve Falls

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)13298 — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you work in the construction industry, the heavy machinery and equipment you handle isn’t your biggest danger, its gravity. The U.S. Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) states that falls are the leading cause of construction deaths in the United States. Every year, over three hundred deaths occur from construction falls.

According to OSHA, most fall-related injuries are associated with scaffolding accidents, unprotected sides or wall openings, unguarded protruding steel rebars and misuse of portable ladders. Since construction is most often conducted several feet above street level, a fall accident can be catastrophic.

Scaffolding creates one of the greatest fall hazards. Scaffolds are not always constructed properly and when you combine that with the fact that there is little space to work with, falls seem to be inevitable. A scaffolding accident can cause serious head injury and death. OSHA recommends installing guardrails to minimize the fall risk.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a fall on a construction site in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation. A case involving a Texas construction accident can result in compensation for the injured construction worker. Contact Steve Lee, an experienced Houston construction accident lawyer, today at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 for legal advice.

Exposure to Asbestos Can Lead to Asbestosis

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)12181 — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been exposed to asbestos, you may be concerned about the long-term health effects. Asbestosis is a natural mineral product that was previously used in products such as insulation, cement, vinyl flooring and fire-resistant materials. It was popular in the past due to its resistance to heat and corrosion.

The problem with long-term asbestos exposure is that it can take anywhere from 20 to 30 years to realize the effects. One of the serious disorders associated with asbestos exposure is known as asbestosis. It is a breathing disorder resulting from inhaling asbestos fibers. Scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath can occur as the fibers accumulate in the lungs.

Symptoms of asbestosis don’t usually develop until there is damage and scarring of the lungs. Asbestosis symptoms typically include shortness of breath, decreased ability to perform physical activities, coughing, chest pain and finger deformity, known as clubbing.

You should seek medical attention if you have been exposed to asbestos for a long period of time, especially if you are experiencing any of the signs of asbestosis. If your condition was caused by someone else’s negligence, such as in the case of a negligent vessel owner, you may be able to hold that person liable for you illness. Contact attorney Steve Lee for legal advice at 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 today.

Texas Workers' Compensation

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)11959 — Wed, 13 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you have been injured on the job in Texas, you may be able to file a claim for workers’ compensation. The Texas Department of Insurance, Division of Workers’ Compensation regulates the delivery of workers’ compensation benefits to injured workers and eligible family members. This state agency also assists in resolving workers’ compensation disputes.

Workers’ compensation is an insurance program that provides benefits when you are injured at work or have developed a work-related illness. The compensation is designed to pay your medical expenses and a portion of your lost income. To receive workers’ comp benefits, your employer must have a workers’ compensation insurance policy under the Texas Workers’ Compensation Act.

Your medical treatment will be paid through workers’ compensation if your work injury or occupational illness occurred as a result of your employment. You can also receive compensation for a portion of your lost income if your injury or illness causes you to lose all or some of your income for more than seven days from one or more jobs.

If you have been injured at work, contact a Texas workers compensation attorney who can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Steve Lee is an experienced lawyer who can help you. Call 713-921-4171 or 800-232-3711 today for legal advice.

Spinal Cord Injury Caused By An Auto Accident

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)11158 — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

If you or a family member has suffered a spinal cord injury from an auto accident, you need to be aware of your legal rights. When a spinal cord injury results from an accident caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation to cover your losses and expenses, including lost income, medical expenses, pain and suffering and other costs associated with your injury.

A spinal cord injury is life changing and often leads to permanent disability or paralysis. Many victims of spinal cord injuries become quadriplegic or paraplegic, making it impossible to function in the same capacity as before the accident.

Once a patient is diagnosed with a spinal cord injury and issued immediate treatment, ongoing care is needed to help prevent further complications. Someone who has sustained a spinal cord injury from a car accident is at risk of developing pressure sores (also known as bed sores), pulmonary embolism, breathing problems and autonomic dysreflexia. Treatment is needed to avoid these health complications.

A spinal cord injury can also impact the family, as there are emotional and financial challenges that frequently arise. If the spinal cord injury victim had previously worked to support the family, the sudden inability to generate income can place a financial strain on the household. When someone else is to blame for the spinal cord injury, compensation should be pursued to help cover the costs of care and any losses.

Contact Attorney Steve Lee if you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident in Houston. Call (800) 232-3711 or (713) 921-4171 today.

Texas Car Accidents and Text Messaging

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)10684 — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

It is hard to disagree with the belief that text messaging can cause serious car accidents. Last year, five recent high school graduates were killed when their car hit a tractor-trailer. Investigators discovered that just moments before the fatal collision, the driver had sent a text message from her cell phone.

Text messaging has become the latest trend and more and more people are using texting as a way to communicate with family and friends. The problem isn’t text messaging itself, instead it is text messaging while driving. One study estimates that 20 percent of drivers send or receive text messages while driving and another poll showed that 66 percent of drivers ages 18 to 24 text message and drive at the same time.

Eight states have already banned texting for all drivers, but Texas is not one of them. In Texas, it is not against the law to send text messages while behind the wheel. In many of the states that have banned texting and driving, drivers can get pulled over if they are found texting, as it is a primary offense.

Text messaging can create a significant driver distraction which may lead to a serious car accident. If you have been injured in a Houston car accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Attorney Steve Lee at (800) 232-3711 or (713) 921-4171 for legal advice.

Are You Considered a Seaman Under the Jones Act?

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9713 — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

The Jones Act provides protection for injured seamen and allows them to recover compensation for their injuries. Under the Jones Act, a vessel owner or employer can be held liable for maritime injuries when the accident was the result of negligence or an unseaworthy vessel. An unseaworthy vessel doesn’t mean it cannot stay afloat, it could mean the vessel has some type of condition that is dangerous for workers.

Injured seamen can also collect compensation even when negligence wasn’t a factor under the Jones Act. This compensation is known as maintenance and cure and is designed to cover the injured maritime worker’s medical expenses and living expenses.

To qualify for a Jones Act lawsuit or maintenance and cure, the injured worker must be considered a seaman. The Jones Act has three requirements that must be met to determine seaman status and the courts will review each one. To prove seaman status the following must be shown:

• The worker had a relatively permanent connection to a vessel or identifiable group of vessels
• The vessels must be in navigation, but don’t necessarily have to be moving
• The workers’ duties must contribute to the mission or function of the vessel

If you have been injured while working on a vessel offshore, you need to contact a Jones Act attorney immediately to review your case. Contact the Law Firm of Attorney Steve Lee today at (800) 232-3711 for legal advice.

The article, “Determining Seaman Status Under the Jones Act,” has more information on this topic.

Whiplash Caused by a Rear End Collision in Texas

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9593 — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Whiplash is a term most of us have heard before, but many people do not realize the severity of this type of injury. A whiplash injury is usually caused by a rear-end collision and can be incredibly painful for the accident victim. Even though whiplash is not a life-threatening injury, it can cause a prolonged period of pain and discomfort.

A whiplash injury occurs when there is an over-extension of the neck, causing muscles and ligaments to stretch or tear. It is usually the result of the body being pushed violently forward from a sudden impact from behind.

Those who have suffered whiplash may experience neck pain, neck stiffness, headache, shoulder pain, dizziness, drowsiness, arm pain, arm weakness, problems with vision, ringing in the ears and back pain. One study has even linked whiplash to TMJ (temporomandibular) pain, which can lead to jaw pain and discomfort.

The recovery time for whiplash varies depending on the victim and the extent of damage to the neck. Doctors frequently recommend neck rest and may even give the patient a cervical collar, which will help reduce the movement in the neck while it heals. Occasionally physical therapy will be needed to help strengthen the muscles. As one might imagine, medical treatment and therapy can be expensive.

If your whiplash injury was caused by another driver who was negligent, you may be able to recover money for your injuries. Contact attorney Steve Lee today at 800-232-3711 or 713-921-4171.

The article, “Understanding Whiplash Caused by Car Accidents in Texas,” has more information on this subject.

Car Seats Save Children's Lives in Texas

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)9086 — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Study after study has shown the effectiveness of car seats in preventing serious injuries among children involved in car crashes. A recent study that spanned a full decade even showed that the use of car seats has actually gone up, which has consequently saved countless lives of young children.

The Partners for Child Passenger Safety study of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and State Farm analyzed insurance claims from 1998 to 2007 and the results from phone surveys on more than 875,000 children in accidents. The findings of the study were encouraging. According to researchers, the overall use of car seats among children 8 and younger increased to 80 percent in 2007 from 51 percent 8 years earlier.

The study also found that many children were being placed in booster seats, which help lower the risk of a child suffering serious injuries in a car accident. A previous study showed that the use of boosters lowered crash injury risk by 59 percent for 4 to 7 year-olds. A booster seat helps elevate a child so that the lap and shoulder belt fit properly. Even though booster seats help avoid child injuries in a car accident, the state of Texas has one of the lowest booster seat usage rates in the United States. Many believe that parents aren’t using booster seats in Texas because the state does not have booster seat laws.

According to the Partners for Child Passenger study, the majority of car crashes involving children happen within 20 minutes of home and 60 percent of accidents occur within 10 minutes of home.

The article, “Use of Car Seats has Gone Up,” has more information on this topic.

If your child has been injured in a Texas car accident, contact Steve Lee, a knowledgeable Texas car crash lawyer, at 800-232-3711 or 713-921-4171.

Accident Victims Risk Developing Symptoms of PTSD

mindywein@cox.net (Blog Author)8770 — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Over three million people are involved in car accidents each year and between 10 to 45 percent of those injured will later develop symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). According to mental health experts and researchers, car accidents are the leading cause of PTSD.

For most people, they usually associate Posttraumatic Stress Disorder with war veterans. Stories are told of veterans who experience traumatic flashbacks and develop extreme anxiety that impacts their lives. However, a car crash can also lead to this debilitating condition.

Two psychologists called Posttraumatic Stress Disorder a national public health problem that is taking a psychological toll on Americans. Car accident victims who suffer from symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder often find that they have trouble working, going to school, maintaining friendships and interacting with family members.

PTSD is triggered by a disturbing outside event in which the victim fears for his or her safety. Someone suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder may have trouble concentrating, sleeping and relating to others. They often feel detached, become irritable, develop a fear of driving and have persistent flashbacks of the car accident. Accident victims with PTSD continue to be impacted by the condition when they become too afraid to ride or drive in a car, which may keep them from working and enjoying life’s activities.

Treatment is available for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and usually includes therapy sessions and medication to treat the symptoms.

If you have been injured in a car accident and have developed Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, you may be entitled to compensation from the driver who caused the accident. Contact Attorney Steve Lee at 800-232-3711 or 713-921-4171 for advice regarding your Texas car accident case.

The article, “Car Accidents are Leading Cause of PTSD,” has more information on this topic.

The Anatomy of a Refinery Accident

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)8476 — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Anyone who works in an oil refinery knows that it is dangerous work, and there was no better illustration of that fact than the explosion at the Texas City BP refinery in 2005, in which fifteen people were killed.

We recently came across an article in Popular Mechanics that gave a thorough and complete account of what went wrong that day in March, and we think it should be required reading for any refinery employee. It lets you know exactly what could go wrong amidst all the oil, fumes, electricity and moving parts at an operating refinery.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a refinery or offshore oil platform, contact Houston injury attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Bad Numbers for Houston on New Years Eve

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)7848 — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

From the Houston Fox affiliate website:

HOUSTON -- Police were out in full force on New Year's Eve to make sure drivers were safe during the late night celebrations.

Houston Police say they made about 45 drunken driving arrests late Wednesday night into Thursday morning.

This is very disheartening news.

It continues to boggle the mind as to how otherwise reasonable citizens of Houston don’t see the dangers of driving drunk, or, even worse, see the dangers but choose to ignore them.

As a law firm that helps the victims of those who have been injured by drunken drivers, we can tell you from experience that the dangers of getting behind the wheel after you have been drinking are very real. Drunk drivers in Houston and all over the country have ruined lives and destroyed families, and the real shame of it all is that these incidents could have easily been avoided if the driver in question had simply exercised restraint, caution and responsibility.

If you or a loved one has been injured due to the actions of a drunken driver in or around Houston, Texas, contact Attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Car Inspections Should Never Be Put Off

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)7596 — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Getting your car inspected is usually viewed by most Texans as an inconvenience. You have to wait in line and fork over money that you could be spending on groceries, rent, or anything else. And they always seem to get you on something, so you have to set up an appointment to fix whatever it is that the inspectors found wrong, which means more money and more time.

But believe it or not, getting your car inspected wasn’t something that Texas thought up to torture you. If you had a one lane personal highway that only you were allowed to drive on, then Texas probably wouldn’t care if you failed every safety inspection criteria that exists. But since you have to share the road with the hundreds of thousands of other drivers in Texas, the state government (as well as everyone in the state) has a vested interest in making sure that your car is as safe as it can possibly be.

Don’t forget, your car is made up of thousands of moving parts, and any part of any machine can and will wear down. The last thing anyone wants is for your brakes to give out, or for your turn signals to short out, or for your tires to be incapable of providing you with traction.

Imagine causing an accident because you failed to get your car inspected, or failed to get something on your car repaired when you knew it was broken. That counts as negligence, and that can prove very costly if you end up in court. If that prospect doesn’t move you, then simply reverse it: Imagine if someone else failed to get his car up to inspection standards and then got into an accident with you.

Get your car inspected. Don’t delay.

If you or a loved one has been in an accident in Houston, contact Houston car accident attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Any Questions About Texas Workers' Compensation Insurance?

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)6937 — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

Workers' compensation is not a requirement for private employers in Texas, but there are still plenty of businesses that are required to have coverage for their employees.

Anyone in Texas who works for a living should know everything that they possibly can about workers' compensation insurnace. If you get injured on the job, knowing as much as you can about the basics can help you establish a successful claim.

By following this link:

http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/pubs/consumer/cb030.html

you will be provided with the basics on workers compensation insurnace coverage in Texas.

If you or a loved one has been injured on the jo in the Houston area, contact the law offices if injury attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

How Does Your Insurance Company Perform?

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)6623 — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

You should always bear in mind that the cheapest insurance is not always the best insurance.

Those companies that offer such cheap rates are often able to do so because of the way that they treat their policyholders when they file a claim.

A company called AM Best bases ranks insurance companies, but does not base the rankings on their profitability, or the amount of money that they spend on advertising. Rather, AM Best ranks insurance companies based on their willingness and ability to pay out claims.

This is the best way for you to figure out which insurance policy is the best for you. Go to their site and see where you insurance company is on their lists.

As always, if you have been injured in a Houston car accident, contact Attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Have a Teenage Driver? Don't Opt out of PIP

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)5958 — Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

In Texas, Personal Injury Protection is automatically added to the policy of any teenage driver, unless the parents opt out of it.

We are urging you to not take that option.

Personal Injury Protection is a smart way for you to protect yourself in the event that you get into an accident that causes serious injury in which you were responsible.

We think that even if you are an adult, having PIP is the smartest thing to have on your insurance. It doesn't matter if your car is brand new, or if your car is fifteen years old. Any time you get into an accident, you are at risk of being found at fault. Personal Injury Protection is just that; It helps protect your finances in the event that you are found liable for injuries to others.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident, contact Attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Banks Aren't the Only Ones getting a Bailout

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)5882 — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

If you follow this link:

http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aMf_JWeNUttU&refer=us

you will find a pretty interesting article about how two of the biggest insurance companies in the country lost half of their money in the stock market, which as we all know, just took a pretty serious plunge.

The end result is that they want a piece of that eight hundred billion that the government is giving to the financial corporations to keep them afloat.

We have to wonder why insurance companies never seem to make public thier losses in the stock market, which can evaporate half of their wealth, yet feel the need to shout to the high heavens over lawsuits, which don't account for the loss of any of their wealth at all.

Just something to consider.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in the Houston area, contact Attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

Event Data Recorders for Your Car

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)5881 — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

Here is an interesting article from Slate, which describes new technology for cars.

It seems that many cars are currently carrying the automotive equivalent of "black boxes," which are those data recorders that are used in airplanes and are used by the NTSB to help determine what happened when there is a plane crash.

We believe that these event recorders could prove invaluable to car accident injury cases, as these recorders can help prove in court exactly how fast each individual car was going, and we can use that data to find out all sorts of information that is pertinent to the case.

If you have been in an accident, having an attorney to subpoena that information could be the difference between getting fair treatment from the insurance company and getting nothing at all.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, contact Houston attorney Steve Lee for a free legal consultation today.

NHTSA Poll

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)4920 — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

This NHTSA poll done by the Gallup organization should not only make you nervous about being on the road, but should also make you rethink your own driving habits.

The percentage of people who routinely engage in unsafe driving behavior (cell phone use, eating while driving, messing with the stereo, talking to passengers) is mind boggling. But you should take a moment to think about how many of these bad habits YOU practice on a daily basis.

Never forget that you are behind the wheel of a vehicle that is moving very fast. It would be a tragedy if you caused someone else to get injured or worse because you got distracted from your primary objective.

Get Ready for Insurance Company Hassles

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)4919 — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

Hurricane Ike has really done a number on Houston, and while the damage wasn't nearly as bad as it was in New Orleans with Hurricane Katrina, we can expect some similar behaviors from the insurance companies.

The link below leads to an article that gives you some very good advice on how to get your claim moving efficiently. A lot of it is common sense, like keeping a record of any and all correspondence with your insurers, and to make sure that you don't rush it when it comes to having your property inspected. Remember, once you accept a settlement from an insurance company, they are usually under no real obligation to come back and take a second look.

http://www.newsinferno.com/archives/3901

Hurricanes are always tricky, in that insurance companies are always looking for an excuse to claim that the damage was caused by water and not wind. But you are not required to just passively sit there and accept whatever decision the insurance company comes to.

More NHTSA Statistics

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)4338 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

It's good news for Texas all around, as our traffic fatality rate has dropped 4.8%. For whatever reason, it seems that Texans are taking safety a little more seriously these days.

To read the report, follow the link below.

http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811017.PDF

NHTSA Releases 2007 DUI Fatality Statistics

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)4337 — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

The NHTSA has just released their 2007 statistics of DUI fatalities by state, and the good news is that Texas' rate has dropped considerably.

To read the report, follow the link below.

http://www-nrd.nhtsa.dot.gov/Pubs/811016.PDF

Crane Collapse Epidemic Hits Home

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)3533 — Sun, 20 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

A crane collapsed in Houston, killing four people. This is a tragedy, and is also incredibly frustrating, as I wrote about this epidemic last month. There needs to be some manner of intense regulation with these machines.

27 Paragraphs About Oil Platforms, 0 Words About Worker Safety

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)3446 — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

http://www.usatoday.com/money/industries/energy/2008-06-19-deepwater-oil-offshore-drilling_N.htm

This link goes to a USA Today article that discusses new offshore exploration and drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Worker safety in this dangerous job is not mentioned at all.

While it is true that oil is vitally important, it should not ever supercede the safety of those who are responsible for finding it and refining it. As exploration and drilling increase, safety measures for oil platform workers should as well.

Houston Does Not Rank Very Well In Driver Safety

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)3445 — Mon, 14 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

Allstate Insurance recently commissioned a study on the safest cities to drive, and the Houston area did not place very high on the list. According to the study, drivers in Houston are around 25% more likely to have an accident than other drivers.

To read the whole report, follow the link below.

http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080701005659&newsLang=en

Again, The Problem is Not Doctors or Lawyers, It's Insurance

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)3289 — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

A great article in The New York Times outlines one of the major obstacles to quality healthcare in America.

It isn't the lawyers, or the doctors that people have to worry about. It's the insurance companies micromanaging and denying perfectly reasonable prescriptions, tests and procedures in order to save a buck.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/17/health/views/17essa.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&oref=slogin&adxnnlx=1214579785-WPnNSyO0eNOhEfVFAY/6oA

Medical Helicopters: Are They Really Worth It?

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)3047 — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

An article in the Houston Chronicle recently brought up an interesting point. It turns out that an ambulance can get an injured patient to the hospital just as fast as a medical helicopter. This is something worth thinking about considering that there have been three medical helicopter crashes this year.

If time isn't necessarily a factor, then maybe the use of these helicopters should be reserved for when they are truly needed, such as when the accident occurs in an out of the way place.

Texas Tort Reform: Two Views

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)2857 — Sat, 31 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

The article linked above is from the Wall Street Journal, and it is describing how doctors can't wait to come down here to practice medicine. The reason? Tort reform.

In case you weren't aware of it, the State Legislature in Austin placed caps on non-economic damages to $250,000. So no matter how egregiously a doctor screws up and no matter how much of a loss that costs your family, the highest amount that you can get is $250,000.

Dead child? $250,000.

Husband ends up in a wheelchair? $250,000.

It's also interesting to notice that now the doctors are complaining about the medical board that has increased scrutiny of medical practicioners as a compromise for enacting caps. Which begs the question: Are the doctors that are in such a hurry to get down here coming because they want to, or because they know that they will get sued for less?

There is another side to these caps, as well.

An attorney from Dallas named Bob Kraft gives a perfect example of how the rights of victims have been completely trampled upon thanks to the new rules. Follow the link to the article below.

http://www.injury-and-disability.com/2008/05/yes-it-really-i.html

Are Your Teens Wearing Their Seatbelts?

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)2856 — Sat, 31 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration just released a particularly disturbing report.

It says that 68% of those killed in nighttime accidents between the ages of 16 to 20 weren't wearing their seatbelts.

You have to wonder what the outcome of these wrecks would be if teenagers were taught to automatically put on their seatbelts.

Follow the link for more information about the reports.

Practical Ways to Save Money on Car Insurance

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)2644 — Fri, 09 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

According to an article at Insurance.com, insurance rates have risen 1.05% this quarter, and will probably be rising even more for the rest of the year. Since we're all paying more at the pump, higher insurance rates are the last thing any of us need.

If you follow the link, you will find a USA Today article that gives you six different ways to save money on your car insurance.

Just bear in mind that skimping on your car insurance costs can come back and haunt you if you have to file a claim. And as always, if you find yourself injured in an accident and the insurance company is denying your claim unneccesarily, contact our offices for a free legal consultation today.

NHTSA Offers Safety Recall Text Message Notices

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)2522 — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

The NHTSA is offering a service that will automatically text message your phone or PDA with information regarding tires or child car seats.

We recommend signing up for this service as soon as possible, especially if you have children.

State Farm Wants Whistle Blowers Fined

adam@fosterwebmarketing.com (Blog Author)2353 — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

The two sisters who exposed State Farm's behavior in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina are coming under fire by the insurance giant.

The Rigsby sisters were State Farm employees who made copies of internal memos, and then handed these copies over to an attorney. These memos described in detail State Farm's plan to deny Hurricane Katrina claims by blaming the majority of the damage on flooding (which is not covered) as opposed to winds (which is covered.)

While it appears that there was some unfortunate conduct by the attorney that was initially representing the Rigsby sisters, it pales in comparison to the conduct by State Farm, who made blanket denials of claims without even bothering to really see what caused the damage.

A judge that allows the financial punishing of whistleblowers is setting a dangerous precedent. Lets hope that the judge who is presiding over this case comes to the same conclusion.

Houston Car Accident Injures One After Car Slams Into Shoe Store

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving four vehicles leaves one woman injured after she loses control of her vehicle and drives into the front window of a local shoe store. The incident took place on Wednesday, February 24, 2010.

Based on witness account, the woman was in the process of backing her vehicle up when she struck three other vehicles and then drove her car through the glass window of a Houston shoe store. Her vehicle came to rest approximately 15 feet inside the store.

According to investigators, rescue crews transported the female driver to a local hospital where she was treated for injuries sustained in the accident. The extent of her injuries were not made known and her identity has not been released. Fortunately, there were no other injuries reported in the bizarre crash.

The Houston car wreck is still under investigation by local authorities. Officials have yet to determine as to why the woman lost control of her vehicle and crashed into the Houston shoe store.

This is an unfortunate accident and we wish all of those involved a speedy recovery.

Houston Car Accident Leaves Two Dead in Morning Crash

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving a speeding car leaves a driver and passenger dead in a morning crash that involved two vehicles. The incident took place at approximately 5:00 AM on Saturday morning, February 13, 2010, on Veterans Memorial at North Sam Houston Parkway.

According to police, witnesses saw a speeding car southbound on Veterans Memorial at speeds in excess of 100 mph. The driver allegedly ran a red light and crashed into a sport utility vehicle (SUV). The car then careened off the Toyota SUV and struck a concrete wall located under the Beltway.

The unidentified male driver and female passenger in the car were both pronounced dead at the scene. Rescue crews transported the male driver of the SUV to a local hospital where he was treated for injuries sustained in the accident. He has been listed in stable condition. His identity has not been released by officials.

Morning commuters were inconvenienced for several hours as crews were required to shut down Veterans Memorial to clean up the accident scene.

The fatal Houston car crash is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is an unfortunate incident and our thoughts go out to all of those that have been affected by this tragedy.

Pearland Auto Accident Kills Two

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Pearland auto accident involving seven vehicles leaves two dead and several others injured. The chain-reaction crash took place at approximately 6:30 AM on Wednesday morning, February 17, 2010, along Texas 35.

According to Pearland police, the incident began when a Chevrolet pickup truck heading south on Texas 35 began to swerve into oncoming traffic. The Chevrolet reportedly hit several other vehicles before hitting another pickup truck head-on.

The collision forced both of the pickup trucks into a nearby ditch where they both caught on fire. The unidentified driver of the Chevrolet was not able to escape the burning vehicle.

“He died at the scene,” said Pearland police Lt. Onesimo Lopez.

However, the driver of the second pickup truck was able to successfully escape the burning scene. Details concerning his injuries were not made available.

A total of seven vehicles were involved in the pileup as other drivers attempted to avoid the original crash. Police report that the driver of a Ford Explorer was also killed in the accident when her vehicle slammed into the side of another car.

The Pearland chain-reaction crash is still under investigation by local authorities.

This is a tragic accident and our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those that have been affected by the unfortunate incident.

Houston Accident Involving Bus and Light Rail Train Injures 9

Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston accident involving a Metro bus and a light rail train leaves 9 people injured after the bus and train collide. The incident took place at approximately 3:30 PM on Monday afternoon, February 8, 2010, at St. Joseph Parkway and Main Street.

According to investigators, the Metro bus was traveling westbound on St. Joseph Parkway when the driver ran a red light and struck a light rail train that was traveling northbound on Main Street. It was unclear as to why the bus driver ran the light.

Rescue crews transported the bus driver and eight passengers to local hospitals where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident. Their identities and conditions were not made available. There were no injuries reported on the train.

“It was just horrible,” said Maria Garza, a passenger on the train. “At the moment I didn’t know what to think. It was just something that happened really fast. It just took me by surprise.”

The Houston accident is still under investigation by local authorities. They indicated that there was a camera on board the train that should assist officials in their investigation.

This is an unfortunate accident and our thoughts go out to all of those that were involved.

Houston Auto Accidents Leave Two Dead

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

Two Houston auto accidents that took place hours apart leave two people dead. The accidents occurred on Saturday morning, January 30, 2010.

According to Texas Department of Public Safety Trooper Jeremy McGilbery, the first accident happened shortly after midnight when the driver of a 1995 Honda Accord lost control of his vehicle on Old Houston Road near Texas 242. The vehicle rolled over after it struck two fences and a power pole.

The driver has been identified as David Wayne Mowery Jr., 24. Mowery was pronounced dead at the scene.

The second Houston accident occurred at approximately 3:00 AM the same morning on Riley Fuzzel. The driver of the 2006 Acura, Chad Wesley Garrett, 30, of Spring, was heading southbound when he lost control of the vehicle and struck a tree head-on.

Garrett was also pronounced dead at the scene from blunt-force injuries to the chest and abdomen sustained in the accident.

Charles Allen Strickland, 27, of Pearland, was a passenger in the Acura. Rescue crews transported him to Memorial Hermann Hospital where he was listed in serious condition.

Both Houston area accidents are still under investigation by local authorities.

Both of these accidents are reminders of how precious life is and our thoughts and condolences go out to all of those that have been affected by the crashes.

Houston Car Accident Leaves Motorcyclist Dead

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving a motorcycle leaves a motorcycle rider dead after he slams into a car in an attempt to avoid the vehicle. The incident took place at approximately 10:00 PM on Wednesday evening, January 27, 2010, in the southwest Houston area.

According to police, witnesses said that the motorcyclist was traveling westbound on the 610 South Loop near the Stella Link Road exit at a high rate of speed. The motorcycle slammed into a Honda Civic as the rider attempted to swerve around the car. The exact speed that the motorcycle was traveling at was not made known.

The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. He was allegedly not wearing a motorcycle helmet at the time he collided with the Honda Civic. His identity was not released by authorities.

The motorcycle hit the Honda Civic with such force that the Honda was around. There were two unidentified women inside the Honda. Rescue crews transported the two women to a nearby hospital where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident. They were listed in stable condition.

The fatal Houston car accident involving the motorcycle is still under investigation by local authorities.

Houston Auto Accident Injures Officer

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston auto accident leaves a police officer injured after his motorcycle slams into the back of a pickup truck. The incident took place at approximately 10:45 AM on Thursday morning, January 14, 2010, southwest of the downtown Houston area.

According to Police Lt. Larry Satterwhite, both vehicles were westbound in the 1300 block of West Alabama when the accident occurred. A third car reportedly slowed to turn right into a driveway, causing the pickup truck to slow down in response. However, the police officer driving his motorcycle was unable to slow in time and rear-ended the pickup truck.

Rescue crews transported the male officer to a nearby hospital where he was treated for injuries sustained in the accident. The identity and condition of the officer were not made available. However, Satterwhite said that the officer was conscious.

There were no other injuries reported in the wreck.

Satterwhite indicated that it was raining at the time of the collision. However, it is unknown whether wet road conditions played a role in the accident.

Morning commuters were inconvenienced as crews had to shutdown West Alabama, which is close to the University of St. Thomas, to cleanup the accident scene.

The Houston accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Houston Truck Accident Kills One

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston truck accident involving three vehicles, including an 18-wheeler, leaves one person dead after the semi strikes a vehicle. The incident took place at approximately 1:45 AM on Saturday morning, January 9, 2010.

According to the Houston Police Department, the incident began with a stalled Mazda on the side of the road in the 9000 block of Eastex Freeway. According to reports, a white Chevrolet Silverado either struck the Mazda or a concrete wall in an attempt to avoid the Mazda.

Houston Police Department spokesperson John Cannon said an 18-wheeler then came along and slammed into the stalled Mazda, killing the driver of the Mazda. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene.

Rescue crews transported a second passenger in the Mazda to a nearby hospital and was treated for injuries sustained in the wreck. According to Cannon, the injuries were considered serious.

The identities of those involved in the fatal accident have not been made available.

Officials report that the driver of the Chevrolet fled the scene of the accident.

The Houston car accident is still under investigation by local authorities. The Houston Police Department’s Hit and Run unit has asked anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who may have information concerning the incident to contact them at (713) 247-4065.

Houston Car Accident Sends 10 to the Hospital

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving four cars sends ten people to the hospital after a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction causes a chain-reaction accident. The incident took place at approximately 9:15 PM on Saturday night, January 2, 2010, on Highway 6.

According to police, a car heading south on Highway 6 near Patterson lost control and swerved into the northbound lanes. A second car then skidded to a stop in order to avoid the first car. However the second car was T-boned by another vehicle causing a fourth vehicle to slam into the two vehicles.

Rescue crews transported two victims by air to Memorial Hermann Memorial City Medical Center where they were treated for injuries sustained in the accident. They have been listed in serious, but stable condition.

Rescue crews transported eight other victims to a nearby hospital.

Officials have not released the names of any of the victims, including the driver of the first vehicle that caused the chain-reaction crash.

Local commuters in both directions were inconvenienced for approximately two hours as crews removed debris from the accident

The Houston car accident is still under investigation by local authorities. It has not been determined why the driver of the first vehicle lost control and veered into the northbound lanes.

Houston Car Accident Kills 2, Injures 5 Others

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving four vehicles claims the lives of two people and injures five others. The incident took place at approximately 4:00 AM on Friday morning, January 1, 2010 on N. State Highway 6 near Patterson Road.

A Ford Crown Victoria was heading northbound in the 3000 block of N. State Highway 6 when it swerved into the southbound lanes and into oncoming traffic, according to the Houston Police Department. The Ford then slammed into a Dodge Laramie pickup truck.

The Dodge was struck by a Lexus GS 30, which was heading southbound. The force of the impact caused the Ford to slam into a Cadillac Escalade that was also traveling northbound on Highway 6.

The driver of the Ford Crown Victoria, John Jackson 23, of Houston, and the driver of the Dodge pickup truck, Benjamin Arnold, 32, of Houston, were both killed in the multi-vehicle wreck, according to the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

According to Houston Police Department spokesperson Victor Senties, five passengers of all the vehicles involved in the accident were transported to separate local hospitals. Senties also reported that the names of the five victims were not available.

The fatal Houston auto accident is still under investigation by local authorities. It was unknown why the driver of the Ford failed to stay in the single lane he was traveling in.

Driver Killed in Clear Lake Car Accident

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

A Clear Lake car accident in the Houston area involving a single-car leaves the driver dead and injures a passenger after the vehicle loses control and slams into a tree. The incident took place early Saturday, January 2, 2010, near the University of Houston at Clear Lake.

According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the driver, Joshua Howard, was traveling southbound in the 2700 block of West Bay Area Boulevard, when he lost control of the vehicle and veered off the road and slammed into a tree. According to reports, the 2000 Ford Mustang GT driven by Howard was in the outside lane, instead of the single marked lane, when the accident took place.

Rescue crews transported Howard to Clear Lake Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced dead from injuries sustained in the wreck.

An unidentified front passenger was also injured in the accident. However, the passenger refused medical treatment from rescue workers at the scene.

The fatal Houston area accident is still under investigation by the Sheriff’s Traffic Enforcement Section. It has not been determined as to why Howard was in the outside lane, however, investigators believe that alcohol was a contributing factor in the single-vehicle accident that left one person dead.

Passenger Run Over in Houston Car Accident

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident results in one person being run over after being ejected out of a vehicle during an accident. The incident took place at approximately 9:45 PM on Tuesday evening, December 1, 2009, along the Southwest Freeway in Houston.

According to a Crime Stoppers report, a Chevy Trailblazer lost control while traveling northbound on the Southwest Freeway, eventually spinning into the 9400 block of the service road of the freeway.

An unidentified passenger in the Chevy Trailblazer was thrown out of the vehicle and was then run over by an unidentified white car, according to the report. The driver of the white car then fled the accident scene, never stopping to check the condition of the victim.

Rescue workers transported the victim to a nearby hospital and was treated for serious injuries which included some broken bones. The condition of the victim is unknown at this time.

The report indicates that the make and model of the white car that ran over the victim is unknown. Police are still searching for the driver of the white car.

It is also unknown who was driving the Trailblazer and why the vehicle lost control.

The Houston car accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Houston Area Crashes Result in Four Deaths

Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Evening accidents in the Houston area leave four people dead and one man in a wheelchair injured. The unrelated accidents took place on Friday evening, December 18, 2009.

According to the sheriff’s office, Harold Horton was killed while crossing an intersection around 7:00 PM in east Harris County. An unidentified driver of a Chevrolet truck struck the pedestrian in his right side. Rescue workers transported Horton to LBJ Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Another accident involving an unidentified man driving a black Ford F-150 took place in the 6100 block on Eastland when the truck swerved into the opposite lane of traffic and slammed into a man who was on the side of the road in a wheelchair. Rescue workers rushed the injured man to Ben Taub General Hospital where he was listed in critical condition, according to Houston Police Department spokesperson Jodi Silva.

Another pedestrian, Stephen Cannon, 27, was killed when he was hit by a Nissan while attempting to walk across the South Loop West near Kirby. The driver, Juan Benitez, 33, fled the scene. However, police located the man about a mile away in a parking lot.

Later that evening, a motorcyclist was killed on the South Loop East between Kirby and Buffalo Speedway, when the male motorcyclist lost control of his bike and slammed into a Dodge Durango.

Right before midnight, a single Houston auto accident claimed the life of Trina Harris, when her vehicle slammed into a concrete wall on the East Hardy Toll Road.

Houston Area Crashes Result in Four Deaths

Sat, 26 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

Fatal Houston Auto Accident May Have Been Caused by Shooting

Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A fatal Houston auto accident involving a single car and a possible shooting leaves one person dead. The incident began at approximately 2:30 AM on Saturday morning, December 11, 2009 in the southwest Houston area.

According to police, the fatal accident may have been caused by a gun shot incident. Officials report that an unidentified man driving a Lexus sedan south on Chimney Rock lost control of his vehicle, crossed over the northbound lanes, and crashed into a parking lot. The parking lot is located at the 6500 block of Chimney Road.

Rescue workers transported the male victim to Memorial Herman Hospital Southwest where hospital officials pronounced the victim dead. Police have not released the identity of the 28-year-old driver, pending the notification of family members.

“Officers at the scene found some spent bullet casings in the road and what appeared to be a possible bullet hole in the front license plate,” said Houston Police Department spokesperson John Cannon. Cannon also indicated that they did not find any signs of a gunshot wound on the victim.

There were no reports of any other vehicles being involved in the incident.

The Houston accident is still under investigation by local authorities. No other information was made available.

Houston Car Accident Leaves Woman and Baby Dead

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving three vehicles leaves a woman and a six-month-old baby dead. The incident took place at approximately 6:30 AM on Friday morning, December 4, 2009 at the intersection of Tidwell and Jensen.

According to Houston police, the crash occurred at the 2800 block of Tidwell in the north Houston area. Reports indicate that a black Chevrolet Impala and a black Ford Mustang were stopped at a red light in the westbound lanes. The Mustang was in the right lane while the Impala was in the left lane.

According to police, a silver Buick LeSabre was heading westbound on Tidwell in the right lane and stuck the side of the Impala and then the Mustang. The force of the impact caused the Mustang to roll over several times and strike a utility pole.

The driver of the Mustang, a 22-year-old female and a sixth month old female, were killed in the collision.

Rescue workers transported the driver of the Impala to St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital and is listed in stable condition. The driver of the LeSabre was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital.

All persons involved in the three-vehicle wreck remained unidentified.

The fatal Houston car accident remains under investigation by local authorities. It is believed that the driver of the LaSabre was traveling at a high rate of speed when the car lost control and struck the other two vehicles.

Mother and Child Killed in Houston Crash

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving three vehicles leaves a mother and child dead. The incident took place at approximately 6:30 AM on Friday morning, December 4, 2009 at the 9500 block of Jensen Drive near Tidwell Road.

According to police, a male driver in a Buick was traveling westbound on Tidwell Road at a high rate of speed and hit the side of a Chevrolet Impala. The force of the impact caused the Impala to slam into a third car that was turning at the Jensen Drive intersection.

The unidentified third car contained the two victims, the mother and child. The mother was pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. Rescue workers transported the 7-month-old child to a nearby hospital. The child was eventually pronounced dead by hospital officials.

The drivers of the Buick and the Impala were also transported to the hospital and treated for injuries. The driver of the Impala suffered only minor injuries while the other driver was listed in serious condition.

Investigators have not released the identities of any involved in the fatal three-vehicle wreck. The Houston accident remains under investigation by local authorities. Police have indicated that slick roadways may have been a contributing factor in the accident.

One Dead, Two Injured in Houston Car Accident

Fri, 27 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving four vehicles leaves one person dead and two others injured. The incident took place at approximately 3:00 AM on Sunday morning, November 22, 2009, along the shoulder of North Freeway near Spring-Steubner.

According to Harris County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began when a driver pulled off onto the shoulder due to a flat tire. A second vehicle pulled over as well. Police report that the two drivers knew one another. In response, two tow trucks had also pulled over to assist the drivers.

Investigators say that a fifth vehicle swerved onto the shoulder, as the two truck drivers were repairing the flat tire. The force of the impact caused the fifth car to roll over on the side of the freeway.

One of the two tow truck drivers was struck and was pronounced dead at the scene. The car also struck the other tow truck driver, as well as the driver of the disabled car. They were both transported by rescue workers to nearby hospitals were they were treated for injuries.

The driver of the fifth vehicle was also injured and transported to a nearby hospital. She has been identified as a female.

Police have not released the identities of any of the victims involved in the multi-vehicle crash.

The Houston car crash is still under investigation by local authorities. However, police did take a blood sample from the female driver. The results are pending.

Houston Car Accident Kills Toddler

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving two vehicles ends in the death of a 2-year-old boy. The incident took place at approximately 1:45 PM on Saturday afternoon, November 7, 2009 at the 11500 block of Northwest Freeway.

The accident involving a green Chevrolet C1500 pickup and a white Mercury Grand Marquis occurred when the Mercury failed to stop at a red traffic light. According to investigators, witnesses reported that the Chevrolet pickup truck was heading east on the freeway frontage road as the Mercury, heading north on Antoine Drive, ran the red light causing the two-vehicle accident.

The 2-year-old boy, who was traveling in the Mercury at the time of the incident, was transported to Texas Children’s Hospital where he was pronounced dead on Sunday. According to police, the child was not strapped into a car seat. They have not released the name of the boy.

Rescue workers transported three other unidentified people to local hospitals where they were treated for injuries suffered in the accident. No other details about their injuries were available.

The incident is still under investigation by local authorities. No other information was made available as to whether any charges will be brought forth. The case is to be referred to a Harris County grand jury.

Houston Car Accident Kills Elderly Woman

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving three vehicles ends in the death of an elderly woman. The incident took place at approximately 7:00 PM on Friday evening, November 13, 2009 at the 3100 block of Gulf Freeway.

According to Houston Police Department spokesperson John Cannon, the chain-reaction accident happened while there was heavy traffic along the northbound lanes of Gulf Freeway. According to reports, a Chevrolet Impala, while approaching the traffic jam, attempted to switch lanes and rear-ended a Ford Focus driven by Ana Olivarez, 79. The force of the impact killed her. The impact also caused her Ford Focus to bump into the back of a Subaru Outback.

Rescue workers on the scene transported Olivarez to Ben Traub General Hospital in Houston, where she was pronounced dead from injuries suffered in the accident.

“It was a chain reaction kind of deal,” Cannon said.

The remaining people involved in the accident have not been identified. It was unclear if there were any other injuries.

The three-vehicle accident is still under investigation by local authorities. According to Cannon, the driver of the Impala did not show signs of intoxication and no charges have been filed by police. However, the driver was cited for failure to control seed.

Houston Car Crash Kills Local Attorney

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident in the downtown area involving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) kills two, including a local Texas attorney. The incident took place at approximately 8:00 AM on Thursday morning, October 29, 2009.

The Houston Chronicle reported that Attorney John O’Quinn, 68, and another unidentified man were traveling along the Allen Parkway, just west of the downtown area, when the crash took place. They were allegedly driving at excessive speeds in a black Chevrolet Suburban when the SUV lost control, crossed two medians, and finally slammed into a tree. The force of the impact caused the tree to be uprooted and required rescue workers to chop away the tree before the SUV could be removed from the scene.

Rescue workers pronounced both men dead at the scene. According to the Houston Chronicle, it is unknown as to who was driving the vehicle when the SUV lost control and crashed into the tree.

According to police, there was light precipitation that morning and the roads were slick, playing a possible contributing factor in the crash.

O’Quinn, a Texas plaintiff attorney, was nationally known.

The accident is still under investigation by local authorities as to determine the exact cause of the wreck.

Houston Ambulance Hit by Suspected Drunk Driver

Sat, 07 Nov 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving an ambulance results in the arrest of a man on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. The incident took place at approximately 2:30 AM on Thursday morning, October 29, 2009.

The two-vehicle wreck between a car and the ambulance occurred at the intersection of South Dairy Ashford and Westheimer Road in the southwest Houston area.

According to investigators, witnesses reported that a Honda car was heading southbound on South Dairy Ashford when it struck the ambulance. The ambulance was exiting a shopping center when the car slid into the side of the emergency vehicle. According to witnesses, the Honda was traveling at approximately 80 mph.

Investigators report that there was a woman who was 8 months pregnant inside the ambulance at the time of the incident. She had been involved in another car accident on Westheimer Road which the ambulance had responded to.

The unidentified woman did not sustain additional injuries from the accident with the Honda. However, she was transferred into another ambulance and taken to West Houston Medical Center.

The driver of the Honda was placed under arrest. According to police, the unidentified man was highly intoxicated, failed a field sobriety test and was unable to stand when police arrested him.

The Houston drunk driving accident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Houston Car Crashes Kills One and Injures Four Others

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two separate Houston car accidents resulted in the death of one person and injured four others. The crashes occurred on the south side of Houston late Monday night, October 19, 2009.

The first accident occurred just after 10:00 PM involving a black Nissan Maxima with two passengers. According to investigators, the Nissan was traveling at high speeds on the Beltway 8 frontage road near Bissonnet Street when the driver lost control and careened into a utility pole.

Rescue workers extracted the driver and passenger from the Nissan Maxima. The male driver was transported by ambulance to a local hospital. The female passenger was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital.

The second accident occurred shortly after 11:00 PM that same evening involving a Honda car and a sport utility vehicle (SUV). According to investigators, the incident took place on the southbound lanes of Interstate 45 near the 610 Loop exit ramp.

Officials say that the accident occurred when the Honda shifted three lanes without the use of a turn signal. The Honda allegedly struck the SUV causing the SUV to roll over several times.

The unidentified driver of the SUV was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. According to investigators, she was not wearing a seatbelt. There were two other passengers in the SUV and both were transported to Ben Taub General Hospital.

The driver of the Honda was not hurt and has not been charged in the death of the SUV’s driver.

A Suspected Hit-and-Run Driver is Arrested in Houston Car Accident

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident resulted in the arrest of a suspected hit-and-run driver. The car crash took place in the southwest area of Houston at approximately 10:00 PM on Thursday evening, October 22, 2009.

According to investigators, the unidentified driver slammed into a motorcyclist and then fled the scene of the crash. The incident took place at the intersection of Bellaire Boulevard and Baneway Drive. The motorcyclist was traveling eastbound on Bellaire Boulevard when the suspect driving a small car hit the rear section of the motorcycle causing the motorcyclist to crash.

According to reports, the driver of the motorcycle was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. The unidentified motorcyclist was transported to West Houston Medical Center and treated for injuries. The extent of the motorcyclist’s injuries has not been reported, however, the rider is reported as being in stable condition.

According to police, the hit-and-run driver never stopped the car when the driver clipped the rear of the motorcycle. Police say the driver continued down the road. However, police did find the car later parked at a nearby apartment complex. The driver was located and taken into custody.

The Houston hit-and-run incident is still under investigation by local authorities.

Woman in Hospital After SUV Rollover Accident in Houston

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Houston car accident involving three vehicles sends a woman to a nearby hospital. The Houston crash took place on North Loop West and Highway 290 at approximately 11:00 PM Friday evening, October 16, 2009.

According to police, the woman was driving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and lost control of her vehicle while attempting to avoid an accident.

Police state that the incident began when a taxi driver cut off another vehicle causing several other vehicles to swerve in an attempt to avoid hitting each other. The vehicle that was cut off by the taxi driver went into the path of the SUV. The woman lost control of the SUV when she attempted to avoid the car. This caused the two vehicles to collide with one another sending the SUV into the grassy shoulder where it landed on its side.

Neither the driver of the car nor the taxi driver was injured in the incident. However, the woman in the SUV was trapped in her car. Rescue crews had to cut her out of the SUV. She was transported to Ben Taub Hospital where she is listed in stable condition.

The multi-vehicle Texas car accident that took place in the northeast Houston area is still under investigation by local authorities.

One Dies in Southeast Houston Crash Along Beltway 8

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

A Texas car accident in southeast Houston results in one person being killed. The incident took place along the Sam Houston Tollway service road at approximately 5:55 AM on Tuesday morning, October 6, 2009.

A man and his son were pushing their stalled vehicle along a darkened portion of the tollway in the 7800 block of Beltway 8 East near the ramp to enter the tollway at Telephone Road when another driver slammed into them, according to police. Their identities have not been released.

The father was injured and was transported to Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries. No other details about his injuries were made available. The son died at the scene.

The name of the female driver of the car that slammed into the stalled car has not been released as of yet. Police have not filed charges against her.

According to police, the frontage road is dark and there is no shoulder in the area that the accident took place. The father and son where apparently pushing their disabled car in a lane of traffic when the other car slammed into them along the Sam Houston Tollway. Investigators have reported that the emergency lights on the stalled vehicle were operating at the time of the incident and that the posted speed limit is 50 mph.

The southeast Houston car accident is still under investigation by authorities.

3 Die Following an Orange County Accident

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 08:00:00 EST

Three adults were killed in a two-vehicle car accident that took place in Orange County, Texas, outside of Houston. The fatal wreck also left a 3-year-old child in critical condition.

The incident took place at approximately 9:05 PM on Tuesday evening, September 22, 2009. According to a Department of Safety dispatcher, the two-car crash took place at the intersection of FM 1442 and Cajun Way Road in the Orange County area. Cajun Way Road is formerly known as Jap Lane.

The two vehicles crashed into one another when Kelly Marie Dutta, driving a 2006 GMC Sierra southbound on FM 1442, made a turn onto Cajun Way Road. Dutta apparently made the turn in front of a 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer driven by Kathy Viator of Vidor.

Emergency crews pronounced Dutta, 33 of Beaumont, dead at the scene. Traveling with Dutta was 3-year-old Emilee Dutta Nowddin. She was transported by ambulance to Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston where she is listed in critical condition.

The other two victims involved in the fatal Orange County crash, Margarett Jane Cottom, 61, of Jasper and Kathy Harrison Viator, 47, of Orange were also pronounced dead at the scene of the accident.

The crash is currently under investigation by authorities.

Students are Safe after Aldine School Bus Crashes

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

High school students were shaken-up when a Houston school bus crashed into a car. However, the students have been reported as being safe following the Houston accident.

The incident took place in the northwest Houston area at approximately 7:00 AM on Thursday morning, September 24, 2009.

The school bus was reported as belonging to the Aldine Independent School District. The school bus was apparently carrying more than 50 students from Eisenhower High School.

The collision reportedly took place on Antoine Drive near Eagle Drive where, according to investigators, a car cut in front of the bus causing the bus to collide with it. The identity of the driver of the car involved in the crash has not been made known yet.

As a precaution, emergency crews examined thirteen students at the scene of the accident. According to officials, the students were treated for minor injuries. None of the students required hospitalization and no serious injuries had been reported as of yet.

Local drivers were inconvenienced when traffic was delayed along Antoine Drive while crews cleaned up the scene.

It is not known as of yet as to why the car pulled out in front of the school bus. The accident is currently under investigation by Houston authorities.

Mother and Child Killed in Fiery Houston Car Accident

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A mother and child were killed in a fiery car crash that involved three vehicles along Sam Houston Parkway in the south Houston area.

The Houston car accident took place on Sunday afternoon, September 20, 2009. According to the Houston Chronicle, the accident happened on the 6200 block of Sam Houston Parkway when a minivan apparently ran a red light.

The minivan was heading west on Sam Houston Parkway and ran the red light at Fuqua, according to police. It then slammed into a Ford Sport Trac. The impact of the minivan caused the Ford to hit a Chevrolet SUV. Police reported that the Ford and Chevy exploded into flames when the force of the impact caused them both to strike a light pole.

The two victims, a mother and 4-year-old child where traveling in the Ford at the time of the accident. Emergency crews pronounced them both dead at the scene. Their identities have not been released. Police officials are waiting for the Harris County Medical Examiner’s office to complete the autopsy reports.

There has been no report as to whether anyone inside the minivan or the Chevy SUV was injured in the crash.

Police have not officially filed charges against the unidentified driver of the minivan. A full investigation of the fatal three-vehicle car crash is currently underway by police officials.

Car Hits 8-Year Old Boy in Clute, Texas

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

An 8-year old boy is taken to the hospital after a car strikes him in Clute, Texas. According to police, the boy is suspected of suffering head injuries as well as internal injuries as a result of the Clute car accident.

The accident occured at approximately 3:45 PM on Sunday, September 13, 2009. The accident happened in the 200 block of Stratton Ridge Road. The driver, a 24-year-old man from Clute, reportedly struck the boy with his car, according to Clute Police Sgt. Christopher Smoot.

Smoot said that the driver said the boy was riding his bike between two trailer homes and rode into the street before he could see him. The incident is currently under investigation.

The boy was immediately transported by helicopter to Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital located in Houston. According to Smoot, as of Sunday evening, the boy’s condition was unknown. Smoot reported that the young boy was coherent when he was transported from the scene of the accident. He also indicated that the boy had cuts and bruises, as well as possible head and internal injuries.

Police reported that the driver’s breath smelled of alcohol. He was given a blood alcohol test at Brazosport Regional Health System.

According to Smoot, the man was arrested for driving with no driver’s license. However, as of Sunday evening, no other charges have been filed.

Man Killed in Santa Fe Car Accident

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 22-year-old man was killed in major car accident in Santa Fe. The crash occurred in the early morning hours of Monday, September 7, 2009 in the 6200 block of Pearson Road in Galveston County.

According to investigators, a red Saturn was speeding at a high rate when it reached a curve in the road and skidded over 100 feet, leaving the road. The vehicle hit a ditch and flew into the air. Two men had been riding in the car and were ejected during the crash.

Brian Yudizky, the driver, was taken by helicopter to the University of Texas Medical Branch, where he was pronounced dead at 6:45 AM. Yudizky’s passenger was flown in a separate helicopter to Houston’s Hermann Hospital. According to Sheriff’s Lt. Randy Burrows, the passenger’s name has not been released because they are waiting to notify his family. The man’s condition was also not available.

Burrows said that both men were from the Santa Fe area.

Alcohol and excessive speed are believed to have been factors in the fatal Santa Fe car crash.

North Harris Drunk Driving Accident Kills One Person

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 08:00:00 EST

A North Harris drunk driving accident claimed one life last weekend. According to investigators, the car accident took place at John F. Kennedy and Connorvale at approximately 7:15 PM on Saturday.

The driver of the 1998 Dodge Caravan was arrested for intoxication manslaughter after the passenger died. Apparently, the van went through a stop sign, struck a car and then crashed into a nearby house. The names of the accident victim and driver have not been released by the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.

A witness told investigators that the van was heading east on Connorvale when it ran a stop sign and smashed into a 2004 Infinity G35 that was traveling north in the 13000 block of John F. Kennedy Blvd.

The van then went through the yard of a home and smashed into the house in the 4300 block of Connorvale. The passenger was taken to the hospital and was later pronounced dead.

Wrong Way Vehicle Causes Fatal Manvel Car Accident

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 30-year-old Houston resident was fatally injured in a two-vehicle car accident on State Highway 288 in Manvel when he was driving his car the wrong way and struck another vehicle.

Witnesses said that they saw Garza driving a 1996 Ford Ranger. He was driving his car northbound in the southbound lane of State Highway 288 when he hit a 1999 Ford F250 that was traveling southbound. Garza died at the scene of the accident.

The occupants in the Ford F250 sustained non-life threatening injuries and were taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital by Manvel EMS for treatment. Their identities were not immediately available.

According to Manvel Police Captain Aaron Bell, “Garza was originally from Tennessee, but has family members in Pearland.”

Investigators from the Manvel Police Department are looking into the cause of the crash. It is still unclear as to whether or not alcohol was a factor in the fatal Manvel car accident, but alcohol was discovered at the scene.

Drunk Driving May Have Been a Factor in Houston Car Accident

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

A toxicology test of the driver has been ordered following a fatal Houston car accident.

A man was driving a vehicle with two flat tires when he crashed into the side of a Kansas City Southern train in southwest Houston. The Houston auto accident occurred in the early morning hours of Monday, August 24, 2009. The driver died at the accident scene.

According to a witness, the unidentified driver was speeding and hit a sign before slamming into the moving train. The crash took place at Fondren and S. Main at approximately 5:30 AM. The witness also told police that there were sparks flying from both rear wheels of the vehicle.

At the time of the accident, the stop signal light was illuminated on the railroad and the crossing arm was lowered. The train conductor didn’t notice that a car had hit the train, but was stopped a couple of miles away by the police.

Houston Man Sentenced for Intoxication Manslaughter

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Vicente Jesus Ramirez, a 30-year-old Houston man, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for intoxication manslaughter. Ramirez was convictd by a jury in Fort Bend County for his involvement in a head-on collision that occurred two years ago and claimed the life of Ronald Dobson.

The skid marks at the accident scene indicated that Ramirez hit Dobson head-on, even though Dobson tried to avoid the collision. According to the evidence, it appeared as though Ramirez did nothing to try to avoid the tragic Houston drunk driving accident.

Dobson was taken to Ben Taub Hospital where he later died.

Ramirez had a blood-alcohol level of .30 at the time of the accident, which is nearly four times the legal limit in Texas. His BAC was presented as evidence during the trial.

Ramirez said that he had been drinking earlier at a restaurant and had consumed five 23 ounce beers. He admitted to trying to pass another vehicle.

“The victim’s family lost a husband, father and grandfather due to this defendant’s careless actions. The strength of the evidence and testimony resulted in a guilty verdict, a 10 year sentence and this community’s decisive opinion on driving while intoxicated,” said Assistant District Attorney Chris Delozier.

Ramirez’s charge was a second-degree felony, which carries a 2-20 year prison term and a fine up to $10,000.

Homicide Charges Probably Won't Be Filed in Fatal Texas Bus Crash

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

The bus driver involved in the fatal crash last year that killed 17 members of Houston’s Vietnamese community will most likely only be charged with nothing more than misdemeanor traffic violations.

Sherman police had originally been looking into charging the bus driver with negligent homicide in connection with the fatal bus accident. However, officials said that there is probably insufficient evidence to support the charge against Barrett Broussard.

The Texas bus accident occurred on August 8, 2008 when 53-year-old Broussard was driving 55 passengers to an annual event for Vietnamese Catholics in Missouri. One of the bus’s tires blew, which caused the bus to skid off a highway bridge. The tire had been retreaded and was on the right front axle, which was in violation of federal regulations.

The National Transportation Safety Board showed that the tire failed due to the fact that it was a retread. That is why Broussard could have been charged with negligent homicide, since he did not have the retread removed before the trip.

Broussard pleaded not guilty to two misdemeanor charges in Grayson County Justice of the Peace Court, which were filed not long after the accident. One of the charges was for driving a bus with a retread on the front axle and the other was for operating a vehicle that did not have the proper authority for interstate travel.

Two Killed in Separate South Houston Car Accidents

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two people were killed within hours of each other in separate crashes in south Houston. The first Houston car accident occurred at approximately 9:45 PM in the 2600 block of Genoa Red Bluff.

The crash took place when a black Acura heading eastbound on Genoa Red Bluff attempted to pass a slow-moving vehicle and crashed head-on into a blue Suzuki motorcycle that was traveling westbound.

According to Houston Police Department spokesman Victor Senties, the 21-year-old motorcyclist was killed in the accident.

The other fatal collision occurred at approximately 1:45 AM in the 12200 block of Almeda Road. That car accident happened when a Honda Civic stopped at a traffic light was rear-ended by a red Toyota Tundra.

The female passenger in the Honda died and the driver was transported to the hospital in critical condition.

Senties said that the driver of the Toyota may face an intoxication manslaughter charge. The driver sustained only minor injuries.

Two Houston Drunk Driving Accidents Within Two Hours

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two different drunk driving accidents occurred in Houston in the early morning hours of Friday, July 24, 2009. Both crashes are believed to be caused by drivers who were driving while intoxicated (DWI).

The first drunk driving accident happened in downtown Houston at approximately 1:30 AM at the intersection of Austin Street and Preston Street.

According to Houston police, the driver was in a Saturn heading north on Austin Street at a high speed when the car veered off the road and hit a light pole. The vehicle then jumped over two parking lot curbs and smashed into a white Ford Mustang that was parked. The driver broke his nose.

Officers said that the driver was intoxicated and had left a midtown bar. He failed the field sobriety test.

The second Houston drunk driving accident occurred at approximately 2:30 AM at the intersection of Westheimer Road and the South Sam Houston Parkway.

According to investigators, a driver was heading east on Westheimer Road in a Hummer and crashed head on with a Toyota Tacoma. One of the drivers had ran a red light. The driver of the Tacoma was seriously injured and firefighters had to remove him from his truck with the jaws of life.

East Houston Car Accident May Have Been Caused by Wet Road

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A two-vehicle accident in east Houston resulted in the death of one man and injured another. Wet roads are believed to have been a factor in the fatal crash.

According to Houston Police Department Sgt. R. Gonzales, a man who has not been identified, was traveling west in the 12700 block of East Freeway at approximately 7:43 PM when he lost control of his vehicle and smashed into a concrete divider.

The impact from the crash caused the Honda Civic to turn into the second lane of traffic, where it collided with a Ford pickup truck.

The passenger in the front seat of the Civic died at the accident scene. His identity has not been released due to a pending autopsy by the Harris County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The driver of the Civic was taken by paramedics to Ben Taub General Hospital where he was reported as being in critical condition.

No further information regarding the fatal Houston car accident is available at this time.

Corpus Christi Man Victim of Drunk Driving Accident

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A young man remains in a coma following a Texas drunk driving accident. Sethen Waid, of Corpus Christi, was seriously injured in a car accident involving an alleged drunk driver on S. Padre Island Drive on June 5, 2009. The drunk driving accident resulted in the death of Cristobal Isaac, a 20-year-old Robstown resident.

Clayton Johnson, the 18-year-old alleged drunk driver, faces charges of Intoxication Manslaughter. According to police, Johnson had a blood alcohol level of .22, which is almost 3 times the legal limit.

A fundraiser was held for Waid to raise money for his mounting medical bills. Friends also gathered to increase the awareness about drunk driving.

Waid is supposed to be transferred to a Houston medical facility and his friends hope to hold more fundraisers for him.

Houston Car Crash Claims One Life

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A north Houston car crash resulted in one death and an injury on the morning of Friday, July 3, 2009.

The fatal Houston car accident took place at approximately 7:15 AM in the 3000 block of North Sam Houston Parkway. According to Houston Police Department spokesman, John Cannon, the crash occurred when a man driving a white truck pulled over to help some people who had been involved in a one-vehicle accident on the service road. A red Chevy HHR heading east on the service road smashed into the back of the truck.

William Edward Kanak, a 56-year-old man, was the front seat passenger of the Chevy. Kanak was killed in the accident and the driver sustained facial injuries.

The car crash is still under investigation.

Navasota Car Accident Kills Two Sisters

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 08:00:00 EST

A tragic car accident in Navasota has taken the lives of two sisters. Jessica Mattern, a high school sophomore, and her 4-year-old sister were killed when the SUV they were riding in overturned just .8 miles north of Navasota on F.M. 3090 on the evening of Wednesday, June 17, 2009.

The rollover accident occurred when Amanda Alfaro, the 15-year-old driver of the vehicle, tried to help Jessica locate her cell phone. Jessica was looking for her phone when the driver ran off the road, overcorrected and lost control of the suburban. It appeared as though the vehicle started a side skid and flipped.

All of the windows broke, as the SUV rolled numerous times. Jessica’s 4-year-old girl, Sierra Simmons, was ejected from the vehicle and was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital with massive head trauma. She died two days later in the hospital.

Jessica was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. Amanda was listed as being in good condition with chest pains and her younger sister who was in the vehicle, Mary Elizabeth, was in good condition with lacerations. Merricka Ybarra, a 15-year-old friend, was also in the SUV and was listed in stable condition with cuts and bruises and a leg injury.

Drowsiness a Factor in Fatal Houston Car Accident

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A husband and wife were traveling to Sugar Land early morning on Sunday, June 28, 2009, when the husband pulled their car onto the shoulder of the Eastex Freeway at Kingwood. He wanted to trade places with his wife because he was tired.

Willie Tolert, a 54-year-old man, was driving his Chevy Aveo when he pulled onto the side of the freeway. A red pickup truck smashed into the back of the couple’s vehicle as they were switching places and killed Tolert instantly. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His wife was not injured in the fatal Texas car accident. The pickup driver was transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital – The Texas Medical Center where he is listed in stable condition.

The pickup driver admitted that he may have fallen asleep at the wheel. According to police, the pickup driver was not intoxicated at the time of the accident, but he may have taken some kind of pills. He was supposed to be tested for drugs at the hospital.

Alcohol May Have Been Factor in Deadly Houston Car Accident

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

A driver was killed when he crossed into oncoming traffic and hit another vehicle head on in Houston. At this point, Houston police are trying to determine if the driver was intoxicated at the time of the Texas auto accident.

The Houston car accident occurred at approximately 11:00 PM on Friday, June 12, 2009. According to police, a pickup truck was heading westbound on Hempstead Highway near Concord when the driver crossed over the dividing lane and crashed head on into a Dodge Stratus.

A witness to the accident stated that the Dodge Stratus caught fire and pinned the driver inside the vehicle. The Houston Fire Department was able to free the driver and he was taken to Ben Taub Hospital where he later died, according to police.

According to investigators, the pickup truck driver was taken into custody and the plan was to have a blood alcohol test done to determine if he was intoxicated.

The accident victim’s name was not released at the time of the article.

Woman Involved in Houston Drunk Driving Accident Faces Charges

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to Harris County prosecutors, Pamela Pugh, from Spring, was driving drunk when she killed a mother of four. Pugh was speeding at 100 MPH when she caused the woman’s death.

Pugh was driving on the Hardy Toll Road at 11:30 PM on May 28, when she crashed into a pickup truck driven by Cheryl Guberman, a 44-year-old woman from the Woodlands. As a result of the impact, Guberman’s truck hit a concrete wall and went over the edge of the highway, falling more than 40 feet to the ground.

Pugh called 9-1-1 that evening to report that another driver cut her off, causing her to wreck her vehicle. She stated that the other vehicle kept going, but she was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving by deputy constables. It wasn’t until hours later that investigators were informed about the vehicle that was forced off the road.

Prosecutors stated that the blood test taken hours after the Houston drunk driving accident, showed that Pugh had a blood alcohol level of .19, which is more than double the Texas legal limit.

Guberman’s family discovered her body in the early morning on May 29. They retraced her path after she failed to pick up her son from Bush International Airport. Her family found crash debris on the highway and saw that Guberman’s truck had gone over the edge of the highway.

Pugh was released on a $30,000 bond from jail. The judge has ordered that she not drive again until further notice. She had one other DWI conviction in 2006 and now faces intoxication manslaughter charges.

Drunk Driving Accident Victim Dreams of Walking

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

In 2003, Kenneth Smith’s life changed forever. He was a passenger in his father’s Ford F-150 pickup truck on a fall evening in 2003. They were heading home from a day of installing stereos and alarms in cars. Kenneth’s father, Gary, told him to get some rest, as they stopped to pay a toll on a rural Harris County road.

Kenneth is now a quadriplegic and his father is dead.

The tragic drunk driving accident occurred on September 13, 2003 in northeast Harris County. The Smith’s vehicle was struck that evening by drunk driver Ramchand Jagaroo. The drunk driver was speeding down U.S. 90 in his black BMW at approximately 80 to 90 miles per hour. According to police, Jagaroo’s vehicle started fishtailing and hit Gary’s Ford truck on a bridge over the San Jacinto River. The pickup flipped over a barrier and off the bridge, where it landed on its roof on a small island in the river.

Gary’s bones were shattered in the crash and he died. Kenneth was flown to Memorial Hermann Hospital with three fractured vertebrae and a damaged spinal cord. Doctors inserted 14 metal plates and bolts into his body to help hold him together.

Jagaroo was charged with intoxicated assault and manslaughter. He pleaded guilty and was sentenced to life in prison. Jagaroo had been convicted of three prior DWIs.

Kenneth still dreams of walking to this day. He wants to try a treatment that involves injecting stem cells into the body, in hope that they will regenerate the body’s cells and restore movement. Kenneth’s doctors are skeptical of the treatment because it is not backed by scientific data. However, Kenneth wants to raise the money to try this treatment, which will cost $40,000.

Texas Car Accident Kills Two People and Injures Others

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 08:00:00 EST

An auto accident in Diboll, killed two East Texans and injured three other people. The Texas car accident took place shortly before midnight on Saturday, May 30, 2009 approximately .2 miles north of Diboll. Two children and one adult were transferred to hospitals in Houston and Dallas in poor condition.

Willie Lacy, a 48-year-old Alto resident, and Crystal Thomas, a 29-year-old Lufkin resident, died at the scene of the crash. Lacy was a railroad worker and Thomas was a state school employee. Their child, 7-year-old Joveair Thomas, was with them at the time of the accident and was transferred to Dallas Children’s Hospital with internal and chest injuries. Thomas’ other child, 4-year-old Christopher Gross, is also being treated at Dallas Children’s Hospital for a broken neck and internal injuries. Thomas’ mother is currently with the children.

The Department of Public Safety stated that the couple’s vehicle was struck head on by a GMC pickup truck driven by Vicente Gonzalez, a 30-year-old landscaper from Corrigan. He is also in critical condition for internal injuries and broken legs at Hermann Hospital in Houston. According to investigators, Gonzalez was driving southbound in the northbound lane.

Police Officer Injured in Houston Car Accident

Thu, 28 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A police officer was critically injured in a car accident in Houston after two vehicles slammed into his patrol car. Officer Lloyd Morrison II had surgery for his injuries and remains in critical, but stable condition.

Kese Smith, Houston Police spokesman, said that the police officer “responded well” to surgery, but Smith would not give any other information about the procedure.

Officer Morrison’s patrol car was hit by two different vehicles on Saturday morning, which left him pinned against a fire truck on the Gulf Freeway. He sustained broken legs and serious injuries to his right arm. According to Smith, “the extent of his injuries are going to require extensive rehabilitation.”

Morrison had responded to a single car accident in the southbound lanes of Interstate 45 at Cullen at 3:30 AM Saturday. His patrol car was hit by 28-year-old Moroof Kareem. When Morrison got out of his vehicle to assess the damage, he was hit by 22-year-old Richard Sandoval, which pinned Morrison against a fire truck at the scene of the first crash.

Kareem was charged with DUI and posted $500 bond. Sandoval will be charged with intoxication assault.

Corpus Christi Pedestrian Accident Kills Man

Wed, 27 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A man described as being in his 30s, was hit and killed on South Port Avenue just south of Laredo on the evening of Friday, May 22, 2009. The fatal accident appears to have been a hit and run.

Police have stated that the pedestrian, who was in his 30s, was trying to cross South Port shortly before 9:00 PM Friday evening when a white pickup truck struck him and caused his death.

According to witnesses, the pickup truck driver left the scene of the accident and turned into a nearby neighborhood. Police have asked the public to watch out for a white pickup truck with damage to the front right fender.

One witness recounted, “We saw a white truck go by and the right tail light was out in the front. My fiancée gave me a call, I didn’t pay attention to nothing until I started hearing everything and then I put two and two together and I thought maybe that was the vehicle or something.”

Galveston Drunk Driving Accident Kills Three People on Mother's Day

Wed, 20 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

On Mother’s Day, an SUV smashed into a car, killing a Houston man and two children on a church outing at the beach. Police believe that the man driving the SUV had two prior drunk driving convictions.

Orvel Wayne Speck, a 44-year-old Galveston resident, was driving a black 2009 GMC SUV when he swerved off Seawall Boulevard and hit Tremaine Albert’s 2009 white Chevrolet Malibu. Albert, a 25-year-old barber and Progressive Missionary Baptist Church deacon, was loading his car with the assistance of his 10-year-old stepson and 3-year-old godson.

The impact from the Galveston drunk driving accident forced the Malibu into Albert and the children. The SUV then rolled and landed upside down on the sidewalk, according to witnesses. Police believe that excessive speed and alcohol were contributing factors in the crash. Speck’s blood alcohol level was tested, but police declined to reveal the results.

Speck had been arrested for drunk driving in 1989. He was convicted and given a one year probation for that incident. In 1990, he was arrested again for drunk driving. Department of Public Safety records show that he was convicted and sentenced to two years of probation. He has not yet been charged for the latest incident.

Speck is currently being treated at Hermann Memorial-Texas Medical Center and a police officer is posted at his hospital room.

Texas Drivers May Have to Give More Room to Bicyclists

Tue, 12 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to a proposed bill, drivers could be charged with a misdemeanor offense if they don’t give bicyclists at least three feet of passing clearance in most circumstances. The legislation is aimed to make drivers more responsible for their vehicles.

Robin Stallings, executive director of BikeTexas, said “it’s important for motorists to understand that close counts – just like in horseshoes. This bill has the potential to educate motorists that getting close is far more dangerous than they expected.”

The legislation is known as the Safe Passing Bill (SB 488), which in addition to giving bicyclists more room, would also prohibit the “right hook,” a dangerous turn made in front of a bicyclist, pedestrian, runner, motorcyclist, construction worker or other vulnerable user of the road. A driver, who violates the rule, could face a $500 fine.

If a driver causes an accident that results in injury, he or she could be subject to a Class B misdemeanor and could spend up to 180 days in jail and pay a $2,000 fine.

Bicycle accidents are a serious problem in Texas. Last year alone, there were 50 deaths caused by bicycle accidents and 274 incapacitating injuries, according to a preliminary Texas Department of Transportation report.

Senator Rodney Ellis, D-Houston, authored the Senate version of this bill. The Senator owns seven bicycles.

Harris County Girl Killed in Bus Accident

Thu, 07 May 2009 08:00:00 EST

A 15-year-old girl was killed after being hit by an Aldine ISD school bus that had dropped her off just a few houses away from where she lived.

Nellie Comier was driving the bus at the time of the fatal accident. She told investigators that she did not see Alma Meza crossing in front of the bus, said Harris County sheriff’s deputies. The bus moved forward, causing Alma to fall to the ground where she was run over by the left rear wheels. Alma died at the scene.

According to her relatives, Alma was a straight-A student and frequently helped care for her three siblings while her mother was working. Her family members said she was a typical teenager who dreamed of becoming a runway model, teacher or professional volleyball player one day.

Relatives gathered together at their northeast Harris County home to comfort loved ones grieving after Alma’s tragic death.

Eddie Longoria had been riding on the same bus as Alma and said that the mood on the campus was somber following the accident. He said the school has officially retired Alma’s sports number. “They decorated her locker with posters and her basketball shoes,” said Longoria.

Insight Provided for Houston Fire Truck Accident

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

A police report has revealed additional insight into the accident involving two fire trucks that killed a 29-year-old cyclist and injured nine firefighters. According to the report, the driver of the pumper engine, Brian Edwards, stated that he was traveling westbound on Westheimer Road with lights and sirens blaring.

Edwards told investigators that his light was green on Dunlavy and that the ladder truck came into the intersection with no warning. He said that he only had a couple of feet to react, so he braked and pulled left. However, it was too late and Edwards’ truck crashed into the ladder truck.

Warren Ducote had been driving the ladder truck at the time of the crash. He said that when they were on Hawthorne Street, the Westheimer light was green. Ducote did not look at the light again. He slowed down and looked left and then right, but didn’t see anything so he continued north on Dunlavy. The truck was then hit and rolled over.

The Houston Police Department is still finishing its report into the accident. The driver of the ladder truck is believed to have failed to use due caution, but that doesn’t mean there will be criminal charges in the death of the cyclist, Leigh Boone.

The Houston crash caused more than $1.2 million in property damage.

One Killed, 4 Injured in NW Houston Car Accident

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

According to authorities, a teenage boy was killed and four others injured after their vehicle crashed. They had allegedly been shooting pellets at vehicles in northwest Houston on the afternoon of Saturday, April 25, 2009.

The fatal crash in Houston took place at 1:19 PM when one of the teenagers, who was driving a Nissan Xterra, ran a stop sign at the intersection of Overhill and Oak Forest Drive. The Xterra was struck on the front passenger side by a Saturn Outlook.

Following the collision, the Xterra hit a curb, slid into the front yard of a home before flipping over and sliding farther down the street and flipping again. The Outlook veered into a driveway and crashed into a home.

One of the teenage passengers in the Xterra was ejected from the vehicle. He later died at Ben Taub General Hospital.

Four other teenagers, who had been in the vehicle, were transported to area hospitals for treatment for their injuries. Their conditions were not known at the time of this article.

The occupants in the Outlook were not injured.

According to witnesses, before the collision took place, the teens in the Xterra had been shooting pellets from air-soft guns at vehicles in the neighborhood. The teens are students at Waltrip High School.

The crash is still under investigation.

Car Slides Into Rain-Swollen Ditch in Houston

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Five children are missing and presumed dead following a car accident in Houston. According to authorities, the car that they were traveling in slid into a rain-swollen ditch after the driver lost control of the sedan while he was trying to answer his cell phone.

The sedan had fallen into Greens Bayou near George Bush International Airport during heavy thunderstorms in the area that caused flash floods. Assistant Chief Omero Longoria of the Houston Fire Department said that they are currently in recovery mode and are looking for bodies.

Two girls, ages 1 and 3, and three boys, ages 4, 6 and 7, are still missing. According to police, two men and a 10-year-old girl were able to get out of the Lincoln Town Car and are in good condition.

The accident occurred at approximately 5:00 PM. Chief Longoria said that by 8:00 PM, divers with the police department found the sedan in more than nine feet of water.

John Cannon, a Houston police spokesman, said that the driver, who is the father of four of the missing children, appeared to be drunk at the time of the accident and failed a sobriety test at the crash scene. The other man in the car, the driver’s brother, told police that the driver had attempted to answer his cell phone right before he lost control of the vehicle.

The heavy storms had dropped record amounts of rain throughout the afternoon, as much as 5 to 6 inches in some areas. Interstate 45 had to be shut down, which caused traffic throughout the city.

La Marque Man Charged in DWI Accident that Killed Two Teenagers

Tue, 07 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two Texas City teenagers were killed when a drunk driver hit their car. Jim Howard III, a 28-year-old La Marque resident, was charged in connection with the accident.

Howard was arrested last Friday as he was about to be released from the hospital and was booked on bonds totaling $950,000. He is being charged with intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle in the death of the Texas City teenager, Samantha Romero, 17. Romero was killed after Howard’s car smashed into a small Scion that was carrying five teenagers in La Marque.

Howard has also been charged with three counts of intoxicated assault with a vehicle, but one of those charges will most likely be changed to manslaughter following the death of Raquel Martinez, 17, who also died from the injuries she sustained in the drunk driving accident.

Two other teenage girls, Jaslynn Perkins, 17, and Priscilla Selvera, 17, were seriously injured in the accident and are recovering in Houston hospitals.

J.L. Campbell, the La Marque Police Department’s lead investigator, went to the hospital last Friday after he was told that Howard was about to be discharged. Howard was being treated at the University of Texas Medical Branch hospital from injuries he sustained in the crash. Campbell said that even though Howard had to use a walker to get around, he was well enough to be booked in county jail, where he will be housed in the medical ward.

Eight People Injured in Metro Bus Accident in Houston

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EST

Eight injuries were reported following a Metro bus accident in northwest Houston on the afternoon of Friday, March, 27, 2009, according to authorities.

A bus traveling north in the 5100 block of Antoine near Hoover in northwest Houston was involved in a crash around 5:00 PM. Metro spokeswoman Carolina Mendoza said that the bus was rear-ended by a car.

Six individuals, who had been riding on the bus at the time of the collision were injured, along with the driver and passenger of the car. All eight bus accident victims were transported to area-hospitals, including Spring Branch, Northwest Memorial Hermann and Methodist, said Mendoza. She also said that the extent of their injuries were unknown at the time she was interviewed.

The driver of the car that rear-ended the Metro bus was issued a traffic citation for failure to control speed, said Mendoza.

There was no other information available at the time of this article.

Bus accidents are commonplace in Texas. In 2007, there were 390 buses involved in non-fatal crashes and 1,684 injuries in crashes involving buses in Texas, according to the latest statistics published by the U.S. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

Houston Accidents Believed to be Caused by Rain

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Several car accidents are believed to have been caused by the heavy overnight rain on March 13, 2009. Some of these accidents occurred in the Houston area, including one involving a Houston police officer.

The Houston police officer was driving northbound on the wet freeway when the police car spun out of control as it approached Tidwell exit on Interstate 45, the North Freeway in north Houston. The rear bumper of the police vehicle smashed into a concrete wall. Luckily, the police officer was not injured in the accident. The crash occurred at about 12:30 AM.

Another accident took place at the same time as the police officer crash in northwest Houston. A pickup truck spun out of control on the North Freeway in close proximity to Link Road. As the pickup truck spun out of control, another car crashed into it, which pushed the truck into a concrete wall.

The driver of the pickup truck was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital in stable condition. A passenger in the car that was involved in the accident was injured and taken to the hospital also.

Within an hour of these two crashes, a Florida woman was injured in an accident near Memorial Park. She was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10, when her truck hit standing water and spun out of control. Her vehicle smashed into a concrete wall twice near the Washington Avenue exit. The driver was taken to Ben Taub General Hospital in stable condition.

Texas City Teen Killed in Drunk Driving Accident

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

A suspected drunk driver is believed to have caused a crash that killed a Texas City High School student and injured others.

The accident occurred early morning on Saturday, March 21, 2009. A car carrying six Texas City teenagers was stopped at a red light on FM 1765 near Ross at about 2:00 AM when a speeding vehicle hit them from behind. The impact of the accident pushed the teens’ vehicle into oncoming traffic and caused them to hit a third vehicle. A pregnant woman was in the third vehicle and was also injured.

Samantha Romero, 17, was sitting in the back seat of the parked car when it was hit. She was killed in the accident and Raquel Martinez, 17, was critically injured. Martinez was taken by ambulance to the trauma center at Ben Taub Hospital in Houston. According to police, the four other teens were also taken by ambulance to hospitals in Houston and Texas City.

The pregnant woman in the third vehicle was taken to Mainland Medical Center and it has been reported that she and her unborn child are in good condition. The driver of the third vehicle was also reported as being in good condition.

The suspected drunk driver was seriously injured in the crash and was taken to Mainland Medical Center in Texas City for treatment. Police are waiting for the results from blood tests before pursing drunk driving charges. If the results show that the driver was drunk, there may also be vehicular manslaughter charges filed.

Grief counselors were available for Texas City High School students as they returned from spring break. Romero is the second Texas City High School student to die in the past month.

Houston Motorcycle Crashes Result in 2 Injuries, 1 Death

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

A motorcyclist was killed in a southwest Houston accident and a separate motorcycle crash in northeast Houston injured the rider and his passenger.

Houston police were at the crash scene of the first motorcycle accident after 10:00 PM, Friday, March 6, 2009. The motorcycle crash occurred on the East Loop approaching the Liberty exit. According to police officers, the male motorcycle rider and his female passenger were laying on the freeway near the crashed motorcycle.

Witnesses informed police officers that the motorcycle was speeding southbound on the East Loop and was seen weaving in and out of lanes on the freeway. When the motorcyclist attempted to veer in front of another vehicle, he hit the front bumper of the car and lost control of his motorcycle, which eventually led to the crash, according to investigators.

The motorcyclist was transported to Ben Taub General Hospital in serious condition and his female passenger was taken to Memorial Hermann Hospital in critical condition.

The occupants inside the car were not injured in the crash. The southbound lanes of East Loop were closed for about one hour during the police investigation. Police believe that the motorcycle driver was responsible for the crash.

The second motorcycle accident occurred about 11:00 PM on Friday, March 6, 2009, when according to police, the driver of a car traveling on Bellaire Boulevard attempted to head south on Jetta and veered in front of a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed.

The impact of the collision caused the motorcycle to slam into the front end of the moving car. The motorcycle driver was ejected from his bike onto the street and was killed, according to investigators.

Witnesses told police officers that the motorcycle appeared to be racing against another vehicle.

Grammy Winning Singer Charged with DWI in Harris County

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

Tejano singer and Grammy winner Emilio Navaira is facing a class-A misdemeanor driving while intoxicated (DWI) charge, which is one year after his bus crash, according to a KPRC Local 2.

The singer turned himself in to authorities the evening of Friday, March 6, 2009. Navaira has since been released on a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to be back in court on March 13, 2009 for his arraignment.

According to Harris County District Attorney’s Office, Navaira had a .08 percent blood-alcohol level when he crashed his tour bus Easter morning. The Bellaire police said that after a concert and a night of excessive drinking, Navaira and his band got into their bus and drove toward San Antonio. The bus crashed on the West Loop at the Southwest Freeway.

Navaira was ejected from the driver’s seat and sustained serious brain and bodily injuries. Some of the band members were also injured. The Grammy winner has already had two brain surgeries and still needs more, said his doctors.

“Only recently did we feel that Emilio was mentally healthy enough to cooperate and work with his attorney and to face the charges against him,” said prosecutor Warren Diepraam.

Navaira’s attorney responded to the singer’s charges by saying, "We anticipate Emilio turning himself in and posting the appropriate bond in the next couple of days. We look forward to discussing the case after we have an opportunity to review the state's file. Our continued concern is for Emilio's health and recovery from his injuries."

Woman Convicted of Intoxication Manslaughter in Montgomery

Mon, 02 Mar 2009 08:00:00 EST

It has been nearly a year since the accident that killed a Montgomery man and injured his wife and children. Amanda Lynn Doyle, 25, was recently convicted of intoxication manslaughter and sentenced to prison by a Montgomery County judge in connection with the fatal DWI accident.

Doyle was given the maximum 20-year jail sentence for intoxication manslaughter, as well as the maximum 10-year jail sentences for each of the four counts of intoxication assault. These sentences will be served concurrently.

State District Judge Fred Edwards sentenced Doyle after she pleaded guilty to the charges and chose to have him decide her punishment instead of a jury.

According to authorities, Doyle had a blood alcohol level of 0.17 percent, which is more than double the legal BAC limit in Texas. The fatal DWI crash occurred when Doyle collided head on with Daniel Hottman’s vehicle on February 29, 2008 on Loop 336 in Conroe.

Hottman, 46, was an assistant pastor for a church and also worked as an electrician. The tragic accident took place when Hottman was driving home from a church conference in Houston with his wife, Christi, and their three children, Winston, 22, Erica, 12 and Hannah, 9.

Assistant District Attorney Joel Daniels said that Hottman died after the accident and his wife sustained serious injuries, including burns and several fractures. Christi now has to use a cane when she walks and a leg brace.

The children sustained internal injuries from their seat belts, but have recovered.

Doyle confessed to taking “a number of intoxicating prescription drugs” in addition to drinking alcohol.

Officers Injured in Crashes During Funeral Processions in Houston

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Two officers were injured in northwest Houston while escorting two separate funeral processions.

Metro police officer, T.J. Barnes, and a Harris County sheriff’s deputy, were the two injured on Saturday afternoon. “It is very out of the ordinary,” said Houston Police Department Sgt. L. Lefler regarding the two accidents. Both crashes occurred within two miles and a couple of hours of each other.

The first collision took place at approximately 1:30 PM when a woman driving a Chevy Tahoe on Lawn Street did not yield at a stop sign and crashed into the Metro police officer who was escorting a funeral procession west on North Victory Drive, said Lefler.

Barnes was ejected from his motorcycle and landed in the grassy area near the median. He was transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital – The Texas Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. The woman driving the Tahoe was taken to Memorial Hermann Northwest Hospital also with non-life-threatening injuries.

According to officials, Barnes has been with Metro for five years.

The second accident occurred about 3:40 PM when a Harris County sheriff’s deputy escorting a funeral procession on a motorcycle west in the 9400 block of West Montgomery hit a four-door Buick sedan. The Buick attempted to cross the road by pulling in front of the procession, said Lefler.

The deputy was flown to Memorial Hermann-The Texas Medical Center by LifeFlight. He was reported as being in serious, but stable condition. The driver of the Buick was taken to Memorial Hermann Northwest, but the driver’s condition was not known.

Lefler said that the sheriff’s office will be leading the investigation into the crash that injured the deputy.

Suspected Drunk Driver Kills Father and Young Daughter in Harris County

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

Authorities believe that the fatal accident that killed Jony Ventura, 33, and his 4-year-old daughter was caused by a suspected drunk driver.

Ventura was on his way to work at Snowflake Donuts in Tomball when the crash occurred at approximately 2:00 AM. He had a daily shift at the donut shop and was allowed to bring his daughter with him. According to Harris County Sheriff’s Investigators, Idania Sagastisado, a 26-year-old woman, was driving drunk as she headed in the wrong direction on northbound Highway 249, just north of Cypresswood Drive. Sagastisado hit Ventura’s sedan head-on.

Ventura tried to swerve away from the oncoming car, but was unable to avoid the collision. He was killed on impact and his daughter was rushed to an area hospital where she died.

Rhina Ventura said that her daughter liked going to work with her husband because she liked to help make donuts just like him. Both father and daughter will be laid to rest in El Salvador. Rhina Ventura has one remaining child, 3-year-old Daniel.

“I tell him they are in the park because he doesn’t understand that he’ll never see them again,” said Rhina.

Sagastisado pleaded guilty in 2005 to driving while intoxicated and was released that time on a $1,000 bond. Rhina Ventura said that she is praying for justice and hopes that Sagastisado will be locked up for life to “pay for the pain she has caused my family.”

After sensing a strong odor of alcohol on Sagastisado’s breath at the accident site, deputies requested that a blood sample be taken at the hospital. She is facing intoxication manslaughter charges from the fatal accident.

Sagastisado survived the fatal crash and was airlifted to the hospital in serious but stable condition.

Drunken Driver Facing Charges in Fatal Houston Crash

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

A man is facing a charge of intoxication manslaughter, following an accident in northwest Harris County that occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, February 15, 2009. According to authorities a passenger was killed in his car.

It appears as though the driver lost control of his vehicle just after 3:00 AM after his car hit a curb along the 19400 block of westbound West Little York, near West Montgomery. His car then swerved across the road and hit a tree, said Harris County Sheriff’s deputies.

Christopher Green was the passenger in the vehicle, who was identified by authorities. He died as a result of the crash.

An odor of alcohol was detected by deputies from the driver of the vehicle. He was transported to an area hospital for testing and had a blood-alcohol content level of .20 percent, said authorities. His blood-alcohol content level was more than twice the state’s legal limit, which is .08 percent.

Deputies said that the driver could have been racing with another car just before the accident, which is still under investigation.

In Texas, police officers can stop and cite drivers for impaired driving due to alcohol or other drugs regardless of BAC. Texas also has a zero tolerance law. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drive with any detectable amount of alcohol.

It has been estimated that someone dies in a Texas alcohol-related accident every five hours.

Motorist Arrested for DWI After Accident in Huntsville

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

A motorist was arrested for driving while intoxicated after causing a four vehicle crash on I-45 in Huntsville.

The night of the accident, Huntsville police, along with Huntsville firefighters and EMS personnel, arrived at the scene of the crash at the 500 block of the I-45 on the west feeder road about 500 feet north of FM 1374 near Huntsville Memorial Hospital.

Sgt. Mike Legerski of the Huntsville Police Department said the accident occurred when a 2002 GMC Yukon exited I-45 at exit 114, traveling south toward FM 1374.

Three vehicles were already stopped just past the exit ramp, as they waited for the traffic signal to change. The man driving the Yukon, 48-year-old James Kreder, told police he did not see any cars ahead of him and struck the rear of the first car, a 1996 Jeep Cherokee. The Jeep Cherokee then collided with the vehicle in front of it, which caused that vehicle to hit the car in front.

Legerski described the accident by saying, “Basically he (Kreder) rear-ended the third vehicle, and that caused kind of a domino effect.”

The cars that were struck were forced forward by the impact, as Kreder’s vehicle veered off the road and eventually stopped nearby.

The drivers of the three vehicles were treated for minor injuries at the crash scene, but no one was taken to the hospital.

Investigators determined that Kreder had been drinking. He was charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) and arrested.

This DWI accident occurred just two days after another multiple vehicle accident was caused by a drunk driver.

10-Vehicle Accident in Houston

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 08:00:00 EST

A driver in Houston lost control of his vehicle and struck a car, which then hit a pedestrian. The two vehicles ended up smashing into several park cars, according to a report by KPRC Local 2.

The driver that caused the accident is believed to have suffered a medical emergency while he was exiting onto Weslayan Street from the Southwest Freeway, said Houston police.

“We think he may have had a seizure or possibly a heart attack. He blacked out at the wheel,” said Sgt. A.C. Francois.

According to investigators, a senior citizen was struck while he was walking his dog outside the La Quinta Inn after the two vehicles collided. He was staying at the motel while receiving cancer treatments at a hospital in Houston. The pedestrian suffered only minor injuries, but he temporarily lost his dog after the accident. The dog was later found and is currently recovering at an animal hospital.

Houston police said that the two vehicles were spinning out of control after the impact and struck eight other cars that were parked in front of La Quinta Inn. A tree was also knocked down and damage was done to the motel’s breezeway.

One motel guest commented that he doesn’t plan on parking in front of the motel again.

The driver who started the 10-vehicle accident was transported to a hospital, but his condition had not been released to the public at the time of this article.

HFD captain fired over 'disgraceful' conduct at wreck

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Melissa Manriquez’s prognosis was grim after she was thrown from her Ford Explorer during a crash on the Gulf Freeway’s service road. When paramedics found her lying on the pavement in a pool of blood, she had a faint pulse and labored breathing. Within moments, they detected no signs of life.

After the 18-year-old waitress and single mother had been covered with a sheet — allegedly on a Houston Fire Department captain’s orders — several tow truck drivers and other witnesses noticed something startling: The sheet was rising and falling. Manriquez was still breathing.

For more information, follow the link below.

Car fire closes Sam Houston Tollway

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- The Sam Houston Tollway was closed for hours Saturday morning after three cars got into an accident and all three caught fire.

Traffic was backed up in both directions.

No word on any injuries.

Loopholes big enough to crash a bus through

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

Houston's Erika Mendez will never listen to her father sing again. She'll never watch him dance and smile, or cradle her mother during family celebrations.

Pedro Mendez died Jan. 2, 2008, during the worst bus crash in Victoria County history - a revealing rollover that injured 46 others. The father of five was 57.

For more information, follow the link below.

Investigators: Brake failure may have caused single-car crash

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON—Two women were hospitalized after the brakes of their car apparently failed on State Highway 249.

According to Harris County deputies, the women were traveling eastbound around 1 a.m. when they took the feeder road exit ramp at the Sam Houston Parkway.

For more information, follow the link below.

45 Drunk Driving Arrests Made on New Year's Eve by Houston Police Task Force

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 08:00:00 EST

4 Teens Killed, 1 Hurt In Crash

Fri, 26 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON - Four teenagers were killed and another was critically injured in a crash that closed part of a major Houston freeway on Friday, KPRC Local 2 reported.

For more information, follow the link below.

Motorcyclist critical after crash with car in Willowbrook Mall parking lot

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON—Last-minute holiday shopping took a tragic turn Tuesday night when a motorcyclist and a car collided at Willowbrook Mall.

It happened in the parking lot around 10:15 p.m.

Police said the motorcyclist was traveling northbound on the loop around the lot when he crashed.

For more information, follow the link below.

OSHA probes complaint at Exxon Baton Rouge refinery

Thu, 25 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON, Dec 23 (Reuters) - U.S. worker safety regulators are investigating working conditions at the nation's second-largest refinery during Hurricane Gustav in early September, according to officials on Tuesday.

For more information, follow the link below.

Grand jury indicts man for criminally negligent homicide

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Angelina County grand jury has indicted a Houston man who caused a fatal accident in Lufkin in July and, the same day, began a multi-vehicle chain reaction crash in Diboll.

Isaac Milstead, 70, was indicted for criminally negligent homicide as a result of his role in the fatal Lufkin crash. Milstead attempted a left turn out of the center lane of U.S. 59 in south Lufkin and struck another vehicle, Lufkin Police Lt. David Young said at the time.

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Valero reports Houston refinery compressor snag

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

NEW YORK, Nov 26 (Reuters) - Valero Energy Corp (VLO.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz), the largest U.S. refiner, reported flaring as a result of a brief compressor outage at its Houston, Texas oil refinery, according to a filing late Tuesday with state regulators.

For more information, follow the link below.

Houston TV station helicopter crashes, 2 dead

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (AP) — A television station says two people died when its news helicopter crashed in a rural area north of Houston.

KTRK, an affiliate of ABC, reported Monday that a pilot and a photographer were on their way to a shooting scene in Montgomery County when the chopper crashed

For more information, follow the link below.

Car That Crashed and Burned Sideswiped by Another Car

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON – A pickup that crashed and burned on the Southwest Freeway Monday night was sideswiped by another car, according to Houston police.

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Control room work may delay Texas refinery return

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON, Nov 21 (Reuters) - Repairs to a control room heavily damaged in Thursday's explosion at Delek US Holding's (DK.N: Quote, Profile, Research, Stock Buzz) 58,000-barrel-per-day (bpd) Tyler, Texas, refinery may delay the plant's return to production, sources familiar with refinery operations said on Friday.

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Houston woman dies after Monday car accident in Liberty County

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

A woman from Houston died Tuesday after a one-car accident in Liberty County, said a Texas Department of Public Safety dispatcher.

The accident happened at 5:05 p.m. Monday on Texas 105, 1.2 miles north of Cleveland.

For more information, follow the link below.

Houston Motorcycle Officer Hurt in Accident with Vehicle

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 08:00:00 EST

The 40-year-old man was taken by LifeFlight to Memorial Hermann Hospital with pain in his right shoulder and a laceration to the right side of his head. The officer had worn a helmet when the accident took place.

For more information, follow the link below.

BP contract worker dies near Texas City refinery

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (Reuters) - BP Plc on Thursday confirmed that a worker for a contractor died after an accident at a waste disposal area near the company's Texas City refinery.

For more information, follow the link below.

Teen Dies in Seat Belt Accident

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Houston police say a 13-year-old boy apparently pretending to be strangled by a seat belt died when he got tangled in the safety device.

Christopher Rhein was a student at Goodson Middle School in the Cypress Fairbanks ISD.

For more information, follow the link below.

Rockets' Alston due in court to answer drunken driving charge

Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

Rafer Alston set for October DWI trial

The Houston Chronicle (Ruth Rendon) reports: Houston Rockets point guard Rafer Alston will stand trial next month on a charge of driving while intoxicated, a judge ruled today. County Court at Law Judge Jean Spradling Hughes set an Oct. 22 trial for Alston, 32, after a brief discussion with attorneys… The charge against Alston is considered a misdemeanor because it would be his first DWI offense.

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Four injured in officer involved accident

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- An officer was involved in a wreck in northwest Houston.

The HPD unit was headed east on Hammerly at Pech responding to another's officer call for assistance. Police say the driver of another car got confused and ended up getting in the way.

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Bus crash revealed hole in U.S. regulation

Wed, 08 Oct 2008 08:00:00 EST

Federal investigators say they may have uncovered a scheme to slip Mexican-built buses into the United States without undergoing required safety inspections.

Power is Scarce, But Houston's Spirit Isn't Lacking

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON — Kimberly Sykes finally threw out the gumbo she made the night Hurricane Ike slammed this city. For a week, she and seven others in her family ate it by candlelight, trying to keep it cool during the day with what ice they could scrounge up.

For more information, follow the link below.

Car Crashes Into Southwest Houston Home

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

A female driver crashes her car into a home in southwest Houston after failing to stop at a dead end street.

The crash took place on Drexel Hill Drive near Warwickshire Drive at approximately 12:30 a.m. Friday.

For more information, follow the link below.

Police Chase Ends with High Speed Rollover Accident

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Police say it was a near-perfect ending to a potentially deadly chase on Thursday morning, when a suspect rolled his car several times without injuring anyone else.

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Jury finds dump truck driver guilty

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON – A City of Houston dump truck driver was found guilty of criminally negligent homicide.

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Worker killed near downtown

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

A 71-year-old Pasadena man remains jailed today in connection with the weekend death of a Texas Department of Transportation worker.

Ray Wilson is charged with failure to stop and render aid and intoxication manslaughter.

Police said Wilson struck David Hall, 42, a TxDOT construction worker, at 100 North Travis at 9:20 p.m. Saturday and then left the scene.

For more information, follow the link below.

Metro bus crashes into building

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- A metro bus made an unexpected stop inside a downtown building Saturday morning.

According to reports, the bus collided with a pickup truck in the 800 block of Milam, and then crashed into a building.

The driver and 11 passengers were taken to the hospital. The driver of the pickup truck was also taken to hospital.

For more information, follow the link below.

15 die in U.S. 75 crash of bus operating illegally

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Houston company operating the tour bus in Friday's deadly crash was doing so illegally, federal officials said, and the motor coach was riding on a recapped right front tire, also in violation of federal safety rules.

For more information, follow the link below.

Injured victim's spouse sues bus owner, driver

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (AP) - A lawsuit has been filed in state district court by a relative of three of the victims of the bus crash near Sherman -- seeking unspecified actual and punitive damages.

Lau Pham is suing the vehicle's manufacturer, owner and driver for negligence.

For more information, follow the link below.

Suspected drunk driver sideswipes ambulance

Fri, 08 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Houston police are investigating an overnight hit and run involving an ambulance.

It happened just after midnight on the Southwest Freeway going over Buffalo Speedway. Police say a man who sideswiped the ambulance was clearly intoxicated, and while they have yet to release what his blood alcohol content may have been, they say he was so intoxicated that he got sick.

For more information, follow the link below.

Motorcyclist injured by power line listed in fair condition

Sun, 03 Aug 2008 08:00:00 EST

A motorcyclist critically injured in a bizarre accident on Interstate 45 July 3 was listed in fair condition Friday at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston’s Texas Medical Center, according to a hospital spokesman.

According to the Conroe Police Department report, Bruce Canfield, 51, of The Woodlands, was riding his Harley Davidson north on Interstate 45 near Gladstell when a Williams Brothers Construction Company dump truck in the construction area snagged an Entergy power line, dropping it across the main lanes in Canfield’s path.

For more information, follow the link below.

Crane collapses at Houston refinery, killing 4

Sun, 20 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON (AP) — Hitting the ground with enough force to lift a worker off the ground, one of the nation's largest mobile cranes collapsed at a Houston oil refinery, killing four workers and injuring seven others.

As federal officials prepared to investigate the latest in a string of fatal accidents involving cranes, the Louisiana company that owns the 300-foot-tall piece of equipment said it would pursue its own probe of Friday's incident. Deep South Crane & Rigging spokeswoman Margaret Landry issued a statement from the company's headquarters in Baton Rouge, saying it was investigating "to determine the root cause, correct it and ensure that this type of tragedy does not occur again."

Eleven hospitalized in alleged drunk driving accident

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

On June 29, at approximately 7:20 p.m., Ricardo Arias, 28, was operating his 1999 Ford Expedition westbound in the 12300 block of North Lake Houston Parkway.

Traveling in the vehicle with Arias were his wife and their seven children. The children range in age from 2 months to 9 years old.

For more information, follow the link below.

Car Goes Into Ditch When Brakes Fail

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Police believe a set of failed brakes may have caused a woman's car to smash through a fence and into a water-filled drainage ditch at an apartment complex in southwest Houston.

The accident happened Thursday night as the woman was driving home from work.

For more information, follow the link below.

Officer Killed in Accident Remembered as Good Father, Husband

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

Family, friends and colleagues celebrated the life of an officer who was killed when a car struck him as he was performing traffic duties.

Officer Gary Gryder, who served in the Houston Police Department for 25 years, was killed Sunday when Hung Truong crashed his vehicle into construction barricades and both he and another officer who was on duty.

For more information, follow the link below.

Construction Accident at Rice University Under Investigation

Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:00:00 EST

(Media-Newswire.com) - An investigation is under way into the circumstances surrounding the accident at a construction site on the Rice University campus Thursday afternoon that resulted in the death of one construction worker and injury of seven others.
The death and injuries occurred when a severe thunderstorm with high winds and lightning struck the campus around 4 p.m. The Rice Crisis Management Team is still gathering information about the incident, but here is what has emerged to date.

For more information, follow the link below.

Impaired driver plows into HPD officers on a coffee break, killing one

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- A Houston police officer was killed and another severely injured Sunday morning after an accident with an intoxicated driver.

Three officers were working traffic control at a West Houston construction site on the Katy Freeway eastbound feeder and Highway 6 around 5:15 a.m. when the incident occurred.

For more information, follow the link below.

Construction Accident At Stadium Injures 3

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

ARLINGTON, Texas -- A crane accident has hospitalized several construction workers at the Dallas Cowboys new stadium in Arlington.

Keith Cooper, with Manhattan Construction, said three people were injured Thursday when they were trying to assemble a crane, Dallas television station KXAS reported.

For more information, follow the link below.

H.S. Teacher & Coach Accused of Driving Drunk, Killing Woman

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

News 4 has confirmed a high school math teacher and baseball coach has been arrested for driving drunk and killing a woman.

The victim, Tamara Simpson, 29, was on her way home from work when police say she was hit and killed by a drunk driver. The man accused of driving drunk is Jose Castaneda, a math teacher and baseball coach at O'Connor High School.

For more information, follow the link below.

Workers begin salvaging Cynthia Woods

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

GALVESTON — The Cynthia Woods was only 2 years old and in good condition when six members of the Texas A&M University at Galveston offshore sailing team left the island Friday afternoon in a 700 mile race to Veracruz, Mexico, officials say.

On Tuesday, salvage workers were preparing to tow the sailboat to an undisclosed location where investigators would try to determine from the wreckage what caused its keel to fall off, killing one crew member and sending five others adrift in the Gulf of Mexico for 26 hours.

For more information, follow the link below.

Fiery Crash Claims Life Of Central Texas Truck Driver

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 08:00:00 EST

(June 11, 2008)—Bobby Cox, 61, of Gatesville died Tuesday in a fiery crash involving three 18-wheelers and a pickup truck on Highway 6 south of Calvert.

The accident occurred Tuesday when an 18-wheeler driven by Ronnie Bernard, 38, crossed the centerline of the highway, clipped a second rig and then hit a third 18-wheeler head on.

For more information, follow the link below.

Firefighter Killed in Motorcycle-Vehicle Accident

Sat, 31 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

A Houston firefighter is killed after his motorcycle crashes into a car along a southwest Houston road.

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Women Arrested After Slamming Truck into Animal Hospital

Sat, 31 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Two women face charges after their truck slammed into a Houston animal hospital overnight.

The accident happened at "The Cat Doctor" on Westheimer and Stanford just before 2 a.m. Thursday.

For more information, follow the link below.

Tejano singer Emilio had 0.19 blood alcohol level after crash, police report says

Sat, 31 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON: Grammy-winning Tejano singer Emilio Navaira's blood alcohol level was more than twice the legal limit for driving when he crashed his tour bus on a freeway, according to a police report released Thursday.

No charges have been filed against Navaira, but a police report states that prosecutors believe the March 23 accident in suburban Houston warrants a charge of driving while intoxicated.

For more information, follow the link below.

Houston Valet Companies Have Employees With No Insurance, Licenses

Thu, 08 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

It's a business the city of Houston is trying to control, but investigative reporter Amy Davis discovered a new city ordinance designed to protect you falls short, leaving some consumers at the curb with no car.

For more information, follow the link below.

Court should reverse self for workers' sakes

Thu, 08 May 2008 08:00:00 EST

The Texas Supreme Court has agreed to reconsider its ruling that gave companies new protection from liability for injuries to workers on their property who are not their employees. The court should reverse its earlier ruling because it has misapplied state law and given plant owners less incentive to maintain safe workplaces.

For more information, follow the link below.

2 in Houston killed in separate overnight hit-and-runs

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

Houston police are investigating a pair of fatal auto-pedestrian accidents in the city overnight.

Shortly after 8 p.m. Friday, a suspected drunken driver struck and killed Edy Calderon, 31, in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 7600 block of Office City Drive, police said.

Cyclist Killed in Accident With Vehicle

Sat, 26 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

Harris County Sheriff's investigators find a cyclist dead on the East Sam Houston Parkway after he is hit by a vehicle early Friday morning.

The accident took place at the 4800 block of East Sam Houston Parkway in east Harris County.

Houston Woman Dead After Rollover Accident

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- A 20-year-old woman is dead after the vehicle she was driving flipped onto its roof in north Harris County.

The accident happened just after 2 a.m. as she traveled on Kuykendahl Road near Demontrond Road.

For more information, follow the link below.

Driver Ejected, Killed in Collision with Exit Ramp Divider

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Police say a man died shortly after being ejected and run over by his own pickup truck in a collision with a freeway guard rail.

The westbound lanes of the Sam Houston Tollway at Blackhawk were closed for several hours after the accident early Monday morning.

For more information, follow the link below.

Four Injured in Accident with Houston Police Officer

Thu, 10 Apr 2008 08:00:00 EST

HOUSTON -- Four people, including two police officers, were sent to the hospital after a car accident in the 5500 block of Shepherd late Tuesday.

The road was closed in both directions just after 10:45 p.m.

Two Houston police officers in one squad car were responding to a call when they T-boned an older model Mercedes. A man in the Mercedes had to be extracted out of the car. A woman in the car was able to get out on her own.

For more information, follow the link below.