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May 18, 2026
A tragic wrong-way head-on collision on I-35 in Austin has claimed another life, highlighting a dangerous spike in local traffic fatalities. Austin Police suspect driving while intoxicated (DWI) played a major role in the early-morning crash. Victims of drunk driving accidents in Texas have the legal right to pursue compensation for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering, by holding the negligent driver accountable through a personal injury claim.
This past Wednesday morning, another person was killed in a wrong-way crash on I-35 in Austin. According to police, a 23-year-old woman and her passenger headed the wrong-way by entering the Manor Road exit ramp at about 3 a.m. The woman’s car crashed head-on into the victim’s car. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
This is the city’s 65th fatal accident this year. Since Jan. 1, 69 people have lost their lives in accidents. In all of 2014, there were only 55 crashes with fatalities.
Austin’s police chief, Art Acevedo, said, “Obviously if you add up birthday celebration and wrong way driver I can tell you there’s an absolute, a strong probability that DWI will have, will play a role in this investigation, but we haven’t completely confirmed it.” Chief Acevedo said, “2015 is on track to be the bloodiest year on American highways since 2007.” According to several experts, part of the reason for this is because the lower fuel prices have more people on the roadways. That’s not a reason to drink and drive, though.
Chief Acevedo also asked that parents discourage their children from drinking and driving. He also asked them to explain to their kids about getting into a vehicle when the driver has been drinking.
Finally, he asked that juries impose harsher sentences on people convicted of drunk driving. Part of the reason for this is because some drunk drivers involved in accidents have only received probation.
If you have been injured by a drunk driver, you have a right to hold him or her responsible for your damages. This might include pain and suffering, lost wages, medical expenses and more. An Austin personal injury attorney experienced in personal injury cases can provide more information on how you can seek compensation from a drunk driver.
Key Takeaways
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Fatal Head-On Collision: A wrong-way driver entered an I-35 exit ramp in Austin, colliding head-on with another vehicle and killing the driver.
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DWI Suspected: Authorities note a high probability that alcohol played a role, as the crash occurred at 3 a.m. following a birthday celebration.
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Rising Traffic Fatalities: This incident reflects a broader, alarming trend of increasing fatal accidents and highway deaths locally and nationwide.
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Call for Strict Sentences: Law enforcement is urging juries to impose harsher penalties on convicted drunk drivers rather than standard probation.
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Victim Compensation Rights: Those injured or families who lose loved ones to drunk drivers can sue for medical costs, lost income, and suffering.
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Legal Representation: An experienced Austin personal injury attorney can help victims navigate the investigation and maximize their financial recovery.
Source: kvue.com, “APD Chief Acevedo calls for change after latest fatal crash,” Ashley Goudeau, Tina Shively, Aug. 19, 2015
