Texas Accident & Injury News
Head-on collisions often have devastating consequences.
72-Year-Old Man Dead After Major Accident Near Castroville
According to a report from News4SanAntonio, a man was killed in a major crash on Highway 90 near Castroville.¹
Police say the accident happened at around 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 18th, near Private Road 4620. A 72-year-old man, identified as Humberto Barrera, was driving a Toyota Tacoma eastbound when he lost control for unknown reasons and drifted into the westbound lanes.
He collided with an oncoming SUV and a truck tractor-trailer. The impact ejected him from the vehicle, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two occupants in the SUV were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the truck was not injured. The highway was shut down for several hours as crews responded. The investigation is ongoing.
Did You Know?
Wrong-way driving contributed to 1,787 crashes across Texas in 2024, according to TxDOT data.²
What To Do If You’re Hit by a Wrong-Way Driver
A wrong-way crash is one of the most dangerous situations a driver can face. It happens fast, often without warning, and usually results in a direct, head-on impact. At highway speeds, the force of that collision is severe.
When a vehicle crosses into oncoming traffic, everyone in its path is put at immediate risk.
Why Wrong-Way Crashes Happen
Drivers do not end up in opposing lanes by accident alone. In these circumstances, there is always a breakdown in awareness, judgment, or control.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Entering a highway or roadway from the wrong direction
- Poor visibility or unclear lane markings
- Fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
- Medical episodes that affect awareness or control
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
No matter the cause, once a driver enters oncoming traffic, the danger is immediate and often unavoidable for others on the road.
Why These Crashes Are So Severe
Unlike most accidents, wrong-way collisions are typically head-on. That means both vehicles are moving toward each other at high speed, multiplying the force of impact.
These crashes often result in:
- Traumatic brain injuries and head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and internal injuries
Ejection from a vehicle—like in this crash—dramatically increases the risk of fatal or catastrophic injury.
What You Need to Do Immediately After a Crash
After a wrong-way accident, the situation is chaotic. But the steps you take right away matter for both your health and your ability to recover compensation.
You should:
- Call 911 immediately—serious crashes require emergency response and a police report
- Get medical attention right away, even if you don’t think you’re hurt
- Stay at the scene unless it is unsafe to do so
- Document vehicle positions, damage, and road conditions with photos and/or video if possible
- Get the names and contact information from any witnesses
Wrong-way crashes often involve severe injuries that can worsen over time, especially head and internal injuries.
Who May Be Held Responsible?
In most cases, the wrong-way driver is held responsible because they created the dangerous situation. Crossing into oncoming traffic is a clear violation of a driver’s duty to operate safely.
However, investigators still examine all contributing factors. In some cases, liability may also involve:
- Poor roadway design or unclear signage
- Lack of proper warnings at entrances or exits
- Other contributing drivers or hazards
Each case is evaluated based on the full set of facts—not assumptions.
Injured in a Wrong-Way Accident? Call Shaw.
A wrong-way crash can change everything in an instant. If you were injured—or lost a loved one—in a crash like this, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Emergency Treatment and Ambulance Costs
- Ongoing Medical Care
- Pain and Suffering
- Lost Wages or Reduced Earning Ability
- Wrongful Death Damages
- And More
We’ll help you find out for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in Texas. There are no fees, no obligations, and no pressure attached. Just clear, compassionate guidance when you need it most.
We look forward to serving you.