Top Causes of Car Crashes in Carrollton, TX

Carrollton is one of North Texas’s busiest suburbs, with major highways and residential streets weaving through retail areas, parks, and industrial zones. Unfortunately, this blend of dense traffic, distracted drivers, and growing congestion also makes Carrollton a hotspot for vehicle collisions. In this blog, we’ll break down the most common causes of car crashes in Carrollton and explore what drivers—and injury victims—should know.

Whether you’re commuting along I-35E or exiting onto Belt Line Road, knowing the top car crash reasons in Carrollton can help reduce your risk—and help you take the right steps if you’re injured in an accident.

Causes of Car Crashes in Carrollton

1. Distracted Driving

One of the most well-documented causes of car crashes in Carrollton is distracted driving. Every day, Carrollton police and first responders deal with wrecks caused by drivers who were texting, adjusting a GPS, or simply not paying attention. In today’s fast-paced world, multitasking behind the wheel has become a major hazard.

Even taking your eyes off the road for two seconds can double your risk of an accident. And in places like the Belt Line Road exit, where traffic flow changes rapidly, this kind of distraction can be deadly.

Distracted driving doesn’t always mean using a phone—eating, applying makeup, and reaching into the back seat are also frequent contributors to crashes.

2. Drunk and Impaired Driving

Drunk driving remains one of the most dangerous reasons for car crashes in Carrollton. Impaired drivers often swerve between lanes, fail to stop at red lights, or miss vital traffic signs entirely. In many cases, these incidents occur late at night or early in the morning—often involving serious injuries or fatalities.

Carrollton police regularly conduct DWI checkpoints to reduce the risk, but unfortunately, intoxicated drivers still lead to numerous collisions each year. These crashes are particularly devastating because they’re 100% preventable.

3. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Speeding is another major factor behind the causes of car crashes in Carrollton. Whether someone is running late for work or ignoring posted limits, excessive speed reduces the time drivers have to react to sudden changes—like a car stopping short, a pedestrian entering a crosswalk, or unexpected road debris.

Aggressive driving habits—such as tailgating, weaving between lanes, and failing to yield—also contribute to Carrollton’s accident statistics. These behaviors often result in high-speed collisions, many involving broken bones or long-term injuries.

4. Hazardous Road Conditions

Carrollton’s roadways, especially during storms or high-traffic hours, can become especially hazardous. Poor visibility, slick roads, or temporary construction zones all contribute to a heightened risk of crashes.

Diesel fuel or other substances spilled on the road can reduce traction and cause even cautious drivers to lose control. When these spills involve hazardous materials, hazmat crews may need to shut down parts of highways—such as the southbound lanes of I-35E—to clean up and ensure safety.

5. Failure to Obey Traffic Signals

One of the most preventable causes of car crashes in Carrollton is simply not obeying traffic signals. Running red lights, ignoring stop signs, or failing to yield at intersections can lead to T-bone or side-impact collisions—many of which cause serious injuries.

Hotspots like Belt Line Road, Josey Lane, and other intersections with heavy traffic flow are often the site of these wrecks. With vehicles coming from multiple directions, one driver’s lapse in attention can result in a major accident.

Where Crashes Happen in Carrollton

Carrollton’s layout includes major highways like President George Bush Turnpike and I-35E, intersecting with busy commercial areas. Some of the most crash-prone areas include:

• Belt Line Road and Josey Lane – Known for heavy traffic and frequent congestion.
• Southbound Lanes of I-35E – Especially near exits, where vehicles often speed or merge unsafely.
• Hebron Parkway – A common location for rear-end and side-swipe crashes due to lane changes.

In one notable incident, diesel fuel spilled after a multi-vehicle crash on I-35E, prompting hazmat crews and first responders to shut down lanes for cleanup. These types of situations can create dangerous bottlenecks, increasing the chance of secondary crashes.

What Happens After a Crash?

After an accident, you may be facing more than just vehicle repairs. Many car accidents in Carrollton lead to serious injuries—like concussions, back injuries, or broken bones—that require immediate and long-term medical attention.

If you’ve been injured in a car crash, it’s important to take legal action quickly. Texas law allows accident victims to file personal injury claims, but there are deadlines to consider. Working with a qualified attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.

Aligning with a Personal Injury Lawyer

Not every accident leads to a lawsuit, but if you were injured due to another driver’s negligence—whether they were speeding, distracted, or driving under the influence—you may be entitled to compensation. The law protects victims of negligence, and a personal injury lawyer can help guide you through the process.

For example, if you were rear-ended because the driver behind you wasn’t paying attention, or if you were injured because someone ran a red light, an attorney can help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent your interests in court if needed.

At Hartley Law, we focus on helping injury victims across North Texas—including Carrollton—get the support and justice they deserve. You don’t have to navigate the legal system alone.

If you’ve been injured in a local crash and need legal guidance, speaking with a knowledgeable Carrollton car accident lawyer can help you understand your options and protect your rights.

How to Stay Safe on Carrollton Roads

While you can’t control what other drivers do, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of a crash:

• Always wear a seatbelt – It’s your best defense in a collision.
• Stay alert – Keep distractions to a minimum and stay focused on traffic patterns.
• Don’t rush – Leave early to avoid speeding or aggressive driving.
• Watch high-risk intersections – Slow down near known trouble spots like Belt Line Road.
• Keep your vehicle maintained – Bald tires or faulty brakes can increase your crash risk.

There are many reasons car accidents happen in Carrollton—from distracted driving and speeding to poor road conditions and failing to obey traffic signals. By understanding the causes of car crashes in Carrollton and staying proactive, drivers can help reduce the risk of collisions.

However, if you or a loved one has already been injured in a car crash, don’t wait to get legal help. Personal injury law is designed to support victims and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where do most car accidents happen in Carrollton, TX?

Many accidents in Carrollton occur on major roadways like I-35E, President George Bush Turnpike, and Belt Line Road. High-traffic intersections and highway exits—especially during rush hour—are particularly prone to collisions.

2. What should I do after a car accident in Carrollton, TX?

Call 911, seek medical attention, and report the crash to the Carrollton Police Department. Be sure to document the scene, exchange information with the other driver, and consider speaking with a personal injury attorney if you’re injured.

3. How long do I have to file a personal injury claim after a car accident in Carrollton?

Under Texas law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. It’s best to act quickly and consult with a local attorney familiar with Carrollton car accident claims.

4. Can I get compensation for a car accident caused by a distracted driver in Carrollton?

Yes. If another driver’s distraction—such as texting or using a GPS—caused your accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

5. How can a Carrollton car accident lawyer help after a crash?

A Carrollton car accident lawyer can help you gather evidence, handle insurance negotiations, and file a claim for the damages you’ve suffered. Legal support is especially important if the crash caused serious injuries or long-term impacts.