GoRo Law Shares Car Accident Tips as Texas Traffic Deaths Decline

HOUSTON — As Texas roads claim thousands of lives each year, a Houston law firm is offering public guidance on what to do after a car accident. Gonzalez & Rothchild LLP, known as GoRo Law, has released a list of steps drivers can take to protect their health and any future injury claim. The advice comes as the Texas Department of Transportation recorded 3,769 traffic deaths statewide in 2025, down from 4,159 in 2024.

"Most people have never been in a serious wreck, so they don't know what to do when it happens," said Ben Rothchild, a partner at the firm and a former Marine Corps Judge Advocate. "A few simple steps at the scene can make a big difference later, especially once an insurance company gets involved." The firm recommends calling 911, seeking medical care even if you feel fine, taking photos of the scene, collecting information from all involved, avoiding apologies or admissions of fault, and consulting a lawyer before giving a recorded statement.

Edgar Gonzalez, a partner and former Coast Guard Judge Advocate, noted that insurance adjusters are trained to keep payouts low. "We want people to know their rights before they sign anything or say anything on the record," he said. The firm also emphasized that most personal injury claims in Texas must be filed within two years of a crash, and that waiting can weaken a case as evidence disappears and witnesses forget details.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, meaning an injured person can recover damages if they were less than 51% responsible, but any award is reduced by their share of blame. "We see insurers push that fault number up all the time," Rothchild said. "If they can say you were half to blame, they can cut what they owe you in half, or pay nothing at all."

Rothchild and Gonzalez both served as military Judge Advocates before moving into private practice. Rothchild served over 10 years in the Marine Corps, reaching the rank of major. Gonzalez led litigation teams in Houston at an intellectual property law firm for over four years, later served as general counsel and chief compliance officer for a pharmaceutical company, and reached the rank of lieutenant commander after 10 years in the Coast Guard. They say that background shapes how they prepare every case.

For businesses, the firm's guidance highlights the importance of understanding liability and insurance processes, which can affect commercial auto claims and workplace safety protocols. For individuals, the tips underscore the value of quick action to preserve evidence and legal rights. GoRo Law, located at 14800 Westheimer Road, Suite H, in Houston, is a 100% veteran-owned firm certified as a Veteran-Owned Small Business. It handles personal injury cases, including car, truck, and motorcycle accidents, along with commercial litigation and other business matters.

As Texas continues to see high traffic fatality numbers, knowing the right steps after a crash can make a significant difference. More information is available at Gonzalez & Rothchild LLP.