Texas Accident & Injury News
Vehicles aren’t toys. Buckle up every ride, every rider.
Driver Arrested for DWI After 22-Year-Old Passenger Dies in Viral Accident in Port Aransas
According to a report from News4SanAntonio, a 22-year-old man, identified as Michael Brown, died following a crash in Port Aransas during Spring Break.¹
Police say the crash occurred on March 14th along Highway 361. A Jeep collided with a Tesla, and the impact caused the passenger to be ejected from the vehicle. He suffered severe head injuries and later died at the hospital.
Authorities reported that a video circulating online showed the passenger riding on top of the vehicle before the crash.
The driver was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI). No other injuries were reported.
Did You Know?
In 2024, 16,317 crashes across Texas were caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol, according to data from the Texas Department of Transportation.²
Spring Break, Beach Driving, and Split-Second Decisions
For many young people, Spring Break is about relaxing, having fun, and letting your guard down—especially in beach towns like Port Aransas. The atmosphere feels casual. The roads feel slower. The risks don’t always feel real.
But vehicles are not toys. Even at low speeds, a single moment can turn into a life-altering tragedy.
What feels like harmless fun—riding outside a vehicle, standing through a sunroof, or joking around with friends—becomes dangerous the second something unexpected happens.
Why Beach Driving Can Be More Dangerous Than It Seems
Coastal areas bring together heavy traffic, unfamiliar drivers, pedestrians, and distractions all at once. During Spring Break, those risks increase.
Alcohol, crowded roadways, and unpredictable behavior create conditions where even a short drive can become dangerous.
Common factors that contribute to serious crashes include:
- Driving under the influence
- Passengers riding outside or moving around inside the vehicle
- Speeding or failing to adjust to traffic conditions
- Distractions from crowds, music, or group activity
When these factors combine, the margin for error disappears.
The Reality of Riding Outside a Vehicle
Riding on top of or outside a moving vehicle is extremely dangerous, regardless of speed. A sudden stop, turn, or collision throws a passenger from the vehicle with no protection.
These incidents often lead to severe head injuries or death.
Passengers should always:
- Remain seated inside the vehicle
- Wear a seatbelt at all times
- Avoid distracting the driver
These are simple decisions, but they are the difference between walking away and not.
Driving Under the Influence Is a Leading Cause of Fatal Crashes
Alcohol directly affects reaction time, coordination, and judgment. Drivers under the influence are far more likely to lose control of their vehicle or fail to respond to hazards.
Choosing not to drive after drinking is one of the most important decisions a person can make.
Planning ahead—whether through a designated driver or a rideshare—prevents situations like this from happening.
What to Do After a DWI-Related Crash
If you are involved in a crash where alcohol is a factor, taking immediate action protects both your health and your legal rights.
Important steps include:
- Call 911 immediately
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries are not obvious
- Cooperate with law enforcement
- Document the scene if it is safe to do so
- Avoid speaking with insurance companies before understanding your rights
When a Tragedy Leads to Legal Action
The loss of a young life is devastating. In cases involving impaired driving, Texas law allows families to pursue a wrongful death claim when another party’s negligent actions caused or contributed to the crash.
Compensation can help cover:
- Medical expenses
- Funeral and burial costs
- Emotional suffering
- Loss of support and companionship
While no legal action can undo the loss, it can help families seek accountability and financial stability during an incredibly difficult time.
Lost a Loved One in a DWI Accident? Call Shaw.
If your family lost someone in an alcohol-related crash, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Loss of companionship and financial support
- And more.
We’ll help you find out for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to speak with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Texas. There are no fees, no obligations, and no pressure—just straightforward legal guidance when you need it most.
We look forward to serving you.
²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors 2024