Wrong-way drivers are more common at night.
Head-on Collision With Wrong-Way Driver on the Northeast Side Leaves Woman Dead, Two Children Hospitalized
According to a KSAT News report, a tragic accident left a woman dead and two children injured last night.
Police reported the accident happened at around 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3rd, in the 3000 block of Harry Wurzbach Road near Urban Crest Drive on the Northeast Side. A vehicle was traveling on Harry Wurzbach when it collided head-on with a pickup truck driving the wrong way. A woman in her 40s, believed to be the driver, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two children of unknown ages were in the vehicle and were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries as a precaution. The driver of the pickup was a man in his late 40s or early 50s and was hospitalized with minor injuries. He was not arrested, but police say he could face intoxication manslaughter charges. The investigation is ongoing.
Did You Know?
Wrong-way drivers on a one-way street caused 82 fatal crashes in Texas last year.
Wrong-Way Drivers in Texas: What to Do If You’re Injured
Wrong-way driving is a rare but extremely dangerous type of accident—and it’s becoming an increasing concern across Texas.
Though wrong-way crashes account for only about 1% of traffic fatalities, Texas experiences more of these deadly collisions than any other state. When these accidents happen, they are almost always severe, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or loss of life.
If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one in a wrong-way crash, it’s critical to speak with a lawyer right away.
Why Do Wrong-Way Accidents Happen?
Most wrong-way crashes are completely preventable and stem from just a few common causes:
Drunk Driving
Alcohol is involved in roughly 60% of wrong-way crashes. Impaired drivers often struggle to comprehend road signs—especially at night—and may mistakenly enter exit ramps or drive against traffic.
Young adults between ages 18–24 are increasingly represented in these crashes, a trend that mirrors the overall rise in DUI-related incidents.
Elderly Drivers
Drivers aged 70 and older are more likely to go the wrong way due to slowed reflexes, vision problems, and increased use of medications that cause drowsiness or confusion.
Confusing Road Design
Poor signage, unclear lane markings, or temporary construction detours can disorient drivers—especially those unfamiliar with the area—leading them to drive the wrong way.
What to Do If You Encounter a Wrong-Way Driver
Wrong-way drivers typically appear suddenly, leaving you little time to react. If you spot a vehicle heading toward you:
-
Turn on your hazard lights.
-
Move to the right shoulder (but only if it’s safe—check your mirrors first).
-
Call 9-1-1 immediately and report the driver’s location and direction.
-
Do not re-enter the road until the wrong-way driver has completely passed and it’s safe to continue.
Being alert and quick to act can save your life and the lives of others.
Injured by a Wrong-Way Driver? Don’t Face the Insurance Company Alone
Insurance companies often rush to settle with victims of wrong-way crashes—but what they offer might not cover the full extent of your injuries and damages.
Before you sign anything, speak with a car accident attorney who can protect your rights and help you understand the full value of your case.
Call Shaw If You Were Injured by a Wrong-Way Driver in Texas
If you or someone you love was hurt in a wrong-way accident anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:
-
Ambulance Costs
-
ER Treatment
-
Hospitalization or Surgery
-
Ongoing Medical Bills
-
Pain and Suffering
-
Emotional Trauma or PTSD
-
Missed Wages
-
Funeral or Burial Costs
-
Wrongful Death
-
And More
Let us help you find out—for free.
Call Carabin Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced car accident lawyer. There are no fees and no obligations—just the expert legal advice you need.
Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for more than 32 years. We put our clients first—and we’re ready to fight for you.
We look forward to serving you.
²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors