In Texas, merging drivers who cause an accident are most likely at fault.
Whether you’re entering I-45 South from a tight on-ramp or changing lanes through downtown Houston traffic, Texas law requires you to yield to vehicles already occupying the lane and merge only when it can be done safely. Texas law places full responsibility on the merging driver to adjust speed, find a safe gap, and execute the merge without disrupting the flow of traffic or causing a collision.
However, drivers with the right-of-way may also be liable for an accident with a merging driver. Reckless driving, speeding, distracted driving, and other negligent actions may result in a claim or lawsuit against you. Insurance adjusters play a significant role in assigning fault in any accident.
Who Has Right-of-Way When Merging Onto the Highway?
Drivers on the highway have the right of way. Drivers entering the freeway in Texas should yield to left-lane traffic as they merge onto a multiple-lane roadway, according to Texas Transportation Code §545.061.
Drivers traveling on the highway have the right-of-way.
Proving Fault and Building Your Claim
After a merging accident, determining what truly happened often comes down to more than just the drivers’ statements. Police reports, traffic camera footage, dash cam recordings, and witness testimony can all help establish whether the merging driver failed to yield or the highway driver was speeding or distracted. In many cases, accident reconstruction experts may analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, and the point of impact to determine speeds and lane positions. Insurance companies frequently try to shift as much blame as possible onto the claimant to reduce payouts.
Legal Help After a Merging Accident
If you or a loved one was injured in a Houston merging accident, Attorney Steve Lee can help. Our car accident law firm offers Free Consultations. We will investigate your accident claim and help you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries, medical bills and other damages.