The Dangers of Driving: Stopping on the Shoulder

If you drive on Texas roadways, and particularly highways, chances are that you will see a vehicle stopped on the shoulder. Whether it’s for a mechanical problem, such as a flat tire, or a traffic stop, shoulders of highways and roadways in Texas are frequently used for stopped or disabled vehicles. However, there are dangers associated with stopping on the shoulder of a roadway. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than 500 people are killed each year in the United States from accidents on the shoulders of roadways.

This high number of fatalities is most notably related to the close proximity between passing traffic on the roadway and the stopped vehicle on the shoulder. Additionally, drivers of stopped vehicles on the shoulder often exit their vehicle to inspect and even attempt to fix whatever issue they are having with their car, increasing the risk of serious bodily injury or death in the event of a shoulder collision.

Therefore, in the event you are faced with a situation while driving on the roadway and need to pull over to the shoulder, you should make sure to pull over as safely as possible and as far-away from the flow of traffic as possible. You should also avoid standing outside your vehicle, especially on the side that is closest to the stream of traffic. It is also important to make your presence known to passing traffic by using your hazard lights. Following these steps will not eliminate the possibility of a shoulder collision entirely, but they may minimize the harm that is caused in the unfortunate event of a shoulder collision.

We are here to help you. If you or someone you know has been injured as a result of the negligence of others, it is important to find a skilled law firm to handle your claim. The law firm of Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner is the oldest personal injury firm in Texas, and our attorneys can assist you with your claim. Call us today at 713-222-7211 or toll free at 1-800-870-9584.