Texas Accident & Injury News
Wrong-way driving can cause devastating accidents.
Four-Vehicle Accident Left Five Hospitalized on the Northwest Side
According to a News4SanAntonio report, a vehicle swerved into the wrong lane and caused a major 4-vehicle accident on the Northwest Side.
Police say the accident happened around 8:50 a.m. on Sunday, November 23rd, at the intersection of Braun Road and Amelia Pass. A driver traveling through the intersection lost control, veered into opposing lanes, and was struck by three vehicles. The driver who crossed into oncoming traffic was hospitalized in critical condition.
At least five others were transported to the hospital with unknown injuries. Police said it was unclear why the driver lost control, but wet roads may have played a role. The investigation is ongoing.
Did You Know?
507 accidents statewide last year were caused by driving on the wrong side of the road at an intersection, according to TxDOT data.
Wrong-Way Accidents at Intersections in Texas
When most people think of wrong-way crashes, they picture highways — but intersections carry their own danger. A driver who suddenly enters the wrong lane gives oncoming motorists almost no time to react. That’s why wrong-way crashes at intersections, like the recent Braun Road collision, often involve multiple vehicles and multiple injuries.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes Happen at Intersections
There’s rarely just one cause behind these accidents. Common factors include:
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Wet or slippery roads — Like in this case, rain can make it easy for drivers to lose control.
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Speeding into a turn — Taking an intersection too quickly can send a vehicle drifting into opposing lanes.
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Distracted driving — Looking down at a phone or GPS, even for a moment, can cause a driver to veer.
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Impaired driving — Alcohol or drugs make it harder to judge lanes, curves, and other vehicles.
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Medical episodes — Sudden illness or loss of consciousness can cause a driver to swerve unexpectedly.
Even when a driver doesn’t mean to cross into oncoming traffic, the consequences can be devastating for every vehicle involved.
How Drivers Can Reduce the Risk
While you can’t control the actions of others, you can take precautions to reduce your own risk:
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Slow down at intersections — especially in rainy or foggy conditions.
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Increase following distance and give extra room to oncoming vehicles.
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Minimize distractions and scan the road ahead for drifting cars.
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Check your tire tread and brakes regularly.
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Avoid driving through standing water to prevent hydroplaning.
These habits can help you stay prepared when road conditions or another driver’s behavior becomes unpredictable.
Who Is Liable After a Wrong-Way Intersection Crash?
Liability usually falls on the driver who entered the wrong lane, especially if they were speeding, distracted, impaired, or driving too fast for the weather conditions. However, other factors may also contribute:
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Poor drainage or hazardous road design
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Mechanical failure or defective brakes/tires
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Missing or unclear signage
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Improper road maintenance
Because four-vehicle crashes involve multiple insurance companies and competing accounts, determining fault can become complicated. An experienced personal injury attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that all responsible parties are identified.
Injured by a Wrong-Way Driver? Call Shaw.
If you or a loved one was hurt because another driver crossed into oncoming traffic, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Emergency Treatment
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Medical Bills
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Surgeries
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Lost Wages
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Pain and Suffering
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Property Damage
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Wrongful Death
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And More
We can help you find out for free.
Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 today 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.
We look forward to serving you.