A driver in a 1993 Chevrolet Blazer was traveling west on Lucky Seven Road while a driver in a 2000 Volkswagen was heading north on Merle Wolfe Road. According to law enforcement, the driver in the Blazer failed to yield at a stop sign and struck the Volkswagen. The driver of the Volkswagen sustained multiple severe injuries and was airlifted to a Texas medical center, where she was listed in serious condition. The driver of the Blazer and two passengers refused treatment at the scene. Police report that the occupants in both vehicles were wearing seatbelts at the time of the collision.

When someone has been seriously injured in a car accident, he or she may be facing weeks or months of painful surgeries, physical therapy and other treatments. During that time, medical and personal expenses may accumulate, leaving the accident victim in financial distress.

If the accident was the result of another driver’s careless behavior, such as failing to yield the right of way, speeding or distracted driving, then the victim may be eligible to collect financial compensation.

A Texas personal injury lawyer could answer questions and assess an individual case to determine a fair settlement amount. In addition, a lawyer may be able to handle many aspects of a lawsuit by negotiating directly with the insurance company. If the case requires litigation, the lawyer could provide the appropriate representation for the plaintiff.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has been informed by automaker Kia that there is a potential steering problem in some of its vehicles. A recall has been issued, but only for vehicles sold or registered in specific states. Texas is not one of the states named; however, local vehicles may still be affected.

Typically, a recall of this type is issued nationwide instead of by geographical region. In this case, however, the recalls due to possible rust and breakage of the control arm are thought to affect only those that are driven in states where rust might be a problem. Consumer groups have expressed concerns about such geographic recalls as it could leave some affected vehicles out of the notifications process. A van sold in Missouri, one of the recall states, to someone living in Ft. Worth, for example, could still have trouble with the steering problem. The new owner wouldn’t necessarily receive notice as they are outside of the geographic recall area.

The recall involves Kia Sedona vans from model year 2006 through 2012. About 80,000 vehicles are affected. The control arm, if rusted, could break and the driver would lose steering capabilities. Though no injuries have been reported so far, many owners have notified the NHTSA that their vehicles suddenly went out of control. By issuing a specific recall affecting only limited states, the manufacturer could save money.

In the case of a car accident that involves a potentially recalled vehicle, an attorney may be able to help with the details. Fighting a large auto manufacturer for damages can be intimidating. Having someone in your corner could make the difference between being properly compensated and losing a case.