Nine people died in a vehicle crash, including six university students

One of the most tragic car accident fatalities in Central Texas happened recently, when a group of young athletes and their coach died in a car crash on March 18. No matter how you look at it, the accident was a tragedy that didn’t need to happen and has devastated the family, friends, and loved ones of the victims. They were all young, talented, and spirited individuals whose contributions to the future will now never happen.

Students belonging to the University of the Southwest golf teams were on their way back to campus from a tournament. A pickup truck suddenly veered onto their side of the road. The resulting front-end collision was high impact. A 13 year old boy was driving the pickup truck and a 38 year old man accompanied him. It remained a mystery as to why the 13-year old was driving. In addition, the left front spare tire on the truck failed, causing the vehicle to swerve. The boy and man both died in the crash. Six of the students and the coach riding in the van died. The two students who survived are recovering.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Vice Chairman Bruce Landsberg said, «On the highways 100 people (are killed) a day. Every two days we are killing the equivalent of a Boeing 737 crashing. Now just think about that. That’s what’s putting this into perspective. And it’s long overdue that we start to do something about it.»

What type of negligence can cause car accident fatalities?

Negligence occurs when a person fails to act in a way that’s reasonable or safe. In fact, negligence is often the determining factor in assigning fault. In a car accident, authorities can hold person who acted negligently liable for damages based on Texas law. Acts of driver negligence include:

• Speeding
• Running stop lights / signs
• Drunk driving
• Distracted driving
• Failing to yield
• Driving without a license

If a driver does any of the above and causes an accident, he or she can be held liable for damages.

If your loved one was involved in a fatal car accident in Central Texas, seek legal help

At the Law Office of Michael R. De La Paz, we have successfully represented clients in fatal car accident cases in McAllen, Weslaco, South Padre Island and other areas statewide. Arrange a free consultation today to evaluate your potential case.