Labor Day Weekend Accidents in Texas: What You Need to Know About Safety and Legal Rights

It’s another long weekend to take a break from school and work! Labor Day weekend also marks the unofficial end of summer — a chance for Texans to enjoy the warm breeze and sunny skies before fall arrives.

But holiday travel doesn’t always mean barbeques and family fun. Unfortunately, Labor Day weekend consistently ranks among the top three deadliest holidays in the U.S. for drivers.

Whether you’re planning a road trip with family or a quick night out with friends, being aware of the common causes of holiday crashes, your legal rights, and what steps to take after an accident is essential.

Common Causes of Car Accidents on Holidays

According to the National Safety Council (NSC), 495 people died during Labor Day weekend in 2023 alone. The most frequent causes of these tragedies include:

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) — Alcohol remains the leading cause of holiday car crashes. Impaired drivers account for roughly 36% of Labor Day fatalities, according to NSC data.

• Traffic Congestion — Crowded highways and increased travel make crashes more likely, especially on Texas interstates and major city roads.

• Distracted Driving — Phones, passengers, or roadside activity can easily divert a driver’s attention during an already chaotic weekend.

• Drowsy Driving — Early morning departures, late-night returns, and long road trips often mean fatigued drivers who are more likely to fall asleep at the wheel.

Prevention Tip: Plan ahead by sleeping well before a long drive, staying sober behind the wheel, and keeping your attention on the road.

What To Do If You’re Injured in a Crash

Even careful drivers can’t control the actions of others. If you’re hurt in a crash this holiday weekend, taking the right steps immediately can make a big difference in both your recovery and your legal rights.

1. Report the Incident — Call 911 so police and emergency responders can secure the scene and file an official report.*

2. Document the Crash — Take photos of the vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and any signs of negligence.

3. Seek Medical Attention — Some injuries don’t appear right away. Get checked by a doctor to prevent complications and to create a medical record.

4. Notify Your Insurance — Report the accident, but be cautious about giving detailed or recorded statements, especially to the other driver’s insurer.

5. Consult a Lawyer — An attorney can explain your rights, preserve evidence, and protect you from insurance companies that may try to reduce or deny your claim.

*If you or anyone else is injured (even a minor injury) in a car accident in Texas, you are legally required to report the accident to the police.

Protecting Your Legal Rights in Texas

Texas follows an at-fault system when handling car accidents. That means the driver who is found negligent is responsible for paying damages. As the injured party, you may:

• File a claim with your own insurance (depending on your coverage),

• File a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer, or

• File a lawsuit against the negligent driver for full recovery of damages.

Because proving fault is critical, evidence such as police reports, photos, and medical records can directly affect the outcome of your claim.

Labor Day Crash? Call Shaw.

Holiday travel should end with memories, not tragedy. If you or a loved one was injured in a Labor Day weekend crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Ambulance Costs

• ER Treatment

• Surgeries

• Medical Bills

• Pain and Suffering

• Property Damage

• Missed Work

• Wrongful Death

• And More

We can help you find out for free.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with one of our personal injury attorneys. No fees. No obligations. Just expert legal advice when you need it most.

Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.

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¹NSC on Labor Day