Did Road Rage Contribute to a Recent 17-Vehicle Crash?

 Posted on April 09, 2025 in 18-wheeler truck accidents

On March 14th, 2025, a multiple-vehicle crash involving 17 vehicles on I-35 in Austin reportedly started because the driver of a semi-truck allegedly said he was "cut off." It is unclear whether the driver’s statement referred to an inability to stop because someone had merged too closely in front of his truck or to road rage caused by someone cutting him off. The wreck happened in a road construction zone, and some Austin residents believe that poor road conditions may have contributed to the collision.

The truck’s driver failed a field sobriety test and showed various signs of intoxication at the accident scene, but a breathalyzer exam and blood tests did not show alcohol or drugs in his system. Five people were killed and 11 more were injured. An ongoing investigation may reveal more details about why this deadly collision occurred. Cases like this are extremely complex. If you are injured in a car wreck, whether due to road rage, poor road conditions, or another cause, our skilled Austin, TX personal injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Trucks Cannot Stop As Quickly As Cars

Many motorists do not understand that a fully loaded tractor-trailer cannot react to emerging traffic conditions as quickly as a passenger vehicle can. In ideal conditions, an average car traveling at 65 mph needs 316 feet to stop. A semi-truck at the same speed requires 525 feet.

If a car merges directly in front of a truck, the truck may not have time to slow down or stop to avoid a collision. In that scenario, the car’s driver would likely share the fault for causing the crash.

Road Rage Can Kill

Extreme aggressive driving, often resulting from a perceived insult to a driver, is known as road rage. A driver who believes another car cut him off can react badly, with road rage often leading to forcing the other driver off the road, ramming the vehicle, intentionally preventing the driver from changing lanes or passing, or physically assaulting the "offending" driver.

Even if the aggressive driver’s vehicle does not contact the offender’s car, a crash can still occur due to the reckless driver’s behavior. Speeding, aggressively weaving through traffic, failing to yield the right of way, and tailgating are common contributing factors to accidents caused by road rage.

Road Construction Zones Can Be Dangerous

Many dangers can exist in road construction areas, including:

• Drivers who fail to reduce speed
• Narrowed or rerouted lanes
• Distracted driving
• Construction debris on the roadways
• Construction workers or equipment being in close proximity to moving traffic

Like with most motor vehicle accidents, an investigation should determine why a road construction zone crash happened and who was responsible.

Your Lawyer Will Investigate Your Crash

Before you can file an insurance claim, you need to know who was at fault for your collision. Some accidents, like the one mentioned above, are complicated. Insurers often try to blame another party for causing crashes so they do not have to pay claims. Your attorney will investigate your accident to establish fault and liability. Then, we will work hard to maximize your compensation, which may include damages for your hospital and medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Discuss Your Case With Our Dedicated San Antonio, TX Truck Accident Lawyer

No matter how complicated your car or truck accident claim is, our experienced Bexar County, TX personal injury attorney can handle it skillfully. Contact Alford Law PLLC online or by calling 210-951-9467 today to set up an appointment for your complimentary consultation.