Two Critically Injured After Head-On Collision at Northwest Side Intersection

A man and a woman were left in critical condition following a head-on collision at a Northwest Side intersection Sunday night, according to a report from KSAT News.¹

Police reported the crash occurred around 9:40 p.m. on Sunday, February 1, at the intersection of West Hausman Road and Kyle Seale Parkway, near Babcock Road. Authorities said a 20-year-old woman was driving eastbound on West Hausman Road and attempting to turn onto Kyle Seale Parkway when a man traveling westbound struck her vehicle head-on.

The man, believed to be in his 30s, had to be rescued from his vehicle by firefighters using the Jaws of Life. Both drivers were transported to the hospital with life-threatening injuries. No other vehicles were involved, and no additional injuries were reported. The investigation remains ongoing.

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Did You Know?

In 2024, 35,984 crashes across Texas were caused by a failure to yield the right of way during a left turn, according to data from the Texas Department of Transportation.²

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Why Head-On Collisions Happen—and Why They’re So Dangerous

Head-on collisions are among the most severe crashes on Texas roadways. Because both vehicles collide front-to-front, the force of impact is extreme, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. These crashes commonly occur at intersections, particularly during left turns.

Understanding the most common causes can help drivers recognize risky situations and avoid them.

Left-Turn Errors Are a Leading Cause

One of the most frequent causes of head-on crashes is a driver failing to yield while making a left turn. Turning across oncoming traffic requires patience and careful judgment, especially at busy intersections.

Left-turn collisions often occur when drivers:

• Misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming vehicles

• Feel rushed to clear the intersection

• Turn on a yellow or changing signal

• Fail to see an approaching vehicle, especially at night

Even a brief miscalculation can result in a violent crash.

Poor Visibility Increases the Risk

Many head-on collisions happen in the evening or at night, when visibility is reduced. Darkness, headlight glare, and gaps in street lighting can make it harder to accurately judge traffic.

Drivers should use extra caution when turning left after dark, driving on unfamiliar roads, or navigating intersections without protected turn signals. Waiting an extra moment can make the difference between a close call and a serious injury.

Speed Makes Head-On Crashes More Severe

Speed plays a major role in how dangerous a head-on collision becomes. Higher speeds reduce reaction time and increase the force of impact, which can significantly worsen injuries.

Slowing down near intersections and obeying posted speed limits helps give drivers more time to react and avoid a crash.

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Distractions and Inattention

Distractions—such as phones, conversations, or navigation systems—can pull attention away at the worst possible moment. A distracted driver may miss oncoming traffic, signals, or changes in the intersection.

Staying focused and eliminating distractions is especially important when approaching or entering an intersection at night. Fatigue and mental distractions are more likely when it’s dark and your brain naturally begins to wind down.

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How Drivers Can Reduce the Risk of Head-On Collisions

While not every crash is preventable, drivers can lower their risk by practicing safer habits at intersections, including:

• Yielding fully before making left turns

• Waiting for a clear and complete gap in traffic

• Slowing down as you approach an intersection

• Being especially cautious at night

• Avoiding distractions behind the wheel

A little patience goes a long way in preventing serious injuries.

What to Do After a Head-On Collision

If you are involved in a head-on crash, safety and medical care should come first. Calling 911 and seeking medical attention immediately is critical, even if injuries are not obvious right away.

Documenting the scene if possible, obtaining the crash report, and avoiding recorded statements to insurance companies before getting legal guidance can help protect your rights. Head-on collisions often cause internal, head, or spinal injuries that may worsen over time.

Injured in a Head-On Collision? Call Shaw.

A head-on crash can leave victims facing serious injuries, long recoveries, and overwhelming medical expenses. If you were injured in a head-on collision, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:

• Medical bills and emergency treatment

• Ongoing or long-term medical care

• Pain, suffering, and lasting injuries

• Lost wages or reduced earning capacity

We’ll help you find out for free.

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio. There are no fees, no obligations, and no pressure—just clear, straightforward legal guidance when you need it most.

We look forward to serving you.

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¹KSAT News Report

²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors (2024)