That brief moment when you’re preparing to merge into flowing traffic might seem routine. But when merging goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic, often involving high-speed side-impact collisions that leave victims with serious injuries. Merging car accidents in Texas can be surprisingly complex, and liability often hinges on factors like proper signaling, adequate spacing, and whether other drivers made room for the merging vehicle. Make sure to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in McAllen
Texas Right-of-Way Laws for Merging Traffic
Section 545.061 of the Texas Transportation Code places responsibility on all drivers to ensure lane changes happen safely. The statute requires that you “drive as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and may not move from that lane unless that movement can be made safely.”
To merge safely, it is important to signal early and check your mirrors and blind spots before moving over. You need to match the speed of traffic that you are joining and look for a gap that gives you enough space. When you have identified a safe opening with adequate space in front and behind, and when traffic conditions allow for a smooth transition, you can merge.
Don’t force your way into traffic or expect other drivers to slow down for you. If you are already on the highway, you should move over when possible to help merging drivers, but you are not legally required to do so. The key is that everyone must act reasonably to prevent accidents.
How Do Merging Car Accidents Happen?
Merging accidents occur for various reasons:
- Failing to signal before changing lanes or merging into traffic
- Misjudging the speed or distance of approaching vehicles
- Attempting to merge into gaps that are too small for safe entry
- Distracted driving, such as using phones, adjusting controls, or talking to passengers
- Aggressive driving behaviors like speeding up to block merging vehicles
- Following too closely, leaving no room for safe lane changes
- Poor weather conditions that reduce visibility
- Construction zones that force sudden merging without adequate warning
Who Is Liable When Merging Goes Wrong?
If you were injured in a merging car accident in Texas, you have the right to pursue legal action. You have the right to file an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against the person responsible. By filing a claim with a personal injury lawyer in McAllen, you can recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Other expenses related to the crash
However, merging accidents can get complicated quickly, and liability can rest with multiple parties. If you merge without looking and hit another car, for example, you will likely be at fault. But if a highway driver sees you signaling and speeds up to block you, causing a crash, they will likely share responsibility. When someone cuts you off during a merge and you rear-end them, fault depends on whether you were following too closely or if they merged unsafely.
Discuss Your Next Steps with De La Garza Law Firm
Merging should be routine, but when it goes wrong, you can get hurt badly. Figuring out who caused merging accidents often proves difficult: traffic moves fast, visibility changes, and right-of-way rules confuse everyone. De La Garza Law Firm can reconstruct your merging accident and build a strong case to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (956) 201-8453 for your free case review and learn how our Texas car accident lawyers will fight for you.
