By Attorney Fernando J. Lopez Lopez Law Group Published February 11 2026
Introduction
On Tuesday February 10 2026 Temple police responded to a deadly single-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 northbound near exit 305 close to the Buc-ee’s location. Officers arrived around 12:32 p.m. after reports of the incident. The vehicle traveling northbound with one occupant struck a concrete pillar. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Larry Wilkey. No other injuries were reported. All northbound lanes shut down for several hours while the Temple Police Traffic Unit investigated. Drivers got rerouted to exit at 304 or used alternate paths. The Temple Police Department continues the investigation with no cause released yet.
Highway crashes like this remind us of dangers on busy Texas interstates. Speeding loss of control or other factors often play roles. TxDOT data shows Texas sees about 11 fatal crashes per day on average with many on major routes like I-35. We assist clients regularly who ask what to do after a car accident how to start car accident claims or who to call after car accident. Single-vehicle wrecks can still involve complex issues like insurance denials or family claims. If this crash or a similar one affected you or a loved one reach out for a free case review. We handle these on no win no fee so you pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
For more on Texas highway risks see our guide to common causes of Texas car accidents.+
What Happened in the Crash
Temple police got dispatched just after 12:30 p.m. to I-35 northbound at exit 305. A single vehicle with one person inside veered and hit a concrete pillar hard. The impact proved fatal for the driver who died on site. Emergency crews confirmed no other people got hurt. The crash blocked all northbound lanes causing major backups. Police advised using exit 304 or other routes. The traffic unit stayed to process the scene which kept the road closed for hours. Investigators from Temple PD handle the case with tips welcome through their line at 254-298-5500 or Bell County Crime Stoppers.
This type of fixed-object collision happens when drivers lose control often on straight high-speed sections. Near popular stops like Buc-ee’s traffic can add distractions.
Why Single-Vehicle Crashes Turn Fatal
On interstates like I-35 vehicles travel at high speeds. A moment of inattention fatigue distraction or mechanical issue leads to veering off course. Concrete pillars or barriers offer no give so impacts cause severe trauma. Even with seatbelts and airbags fatal injuries occur from force. Families then handle sudden loss medical or funeral costs and emotional strain. Texas stats list speeding as a leading factor in many fatal crashes along with failure to maintain lane or control.
See our specific page on common causes of Texas car accidents speeding for more details.
Who May Be Responsible and Legal Considerations
In single-vehicle crashes the driver often bears primary fault but other factors matter. If road conditions poor maintenance improper signage or vehicle defects contributed third parties could share liability. For example if the pillar placement or barrier design played a role claims might go toward government entities like TxDOT. Texas law under Civil Practice and Remedies Code section 16.003 gives two years from the crash date for most personal injury or wrongful death suits. Government claims require quicker notice periods. Insurance policies get reviewed for coverage limits exclusions or denials. Wrongful death applies here since a life was lost allowing family members to seek compensation for losses.
Explore our wrongful death page for family claim information.
Steps to Take If You Get Hurt or Lose Someone in a Texas Crash
After any wreck including fatal ones people search car collision what to do what to do after a car accident or what to do if you hit a car. Even in single-vehicle cases these steps protect rights.
Immediate Actions After the Crash
- Seek medical care immediately even for minor issues as some injuries appear later.
- Ensure police file a report which helps when you need to report motor vehicle accident or find how to get an accident report online.
- Document the scene with photos of damage road conditions vehicle position and injuries if possible.
- Gather witness contacts police details and any available evidence.
- Avoid recorded statements to insurance companies without consulting a lawyer first.
- Contact a personal injury attorney quickly to secure evidence and meet filing deadlines for car accident claims.
These actions strengthen your position for how to claim car accident or related processes.
Check our general auto accident attorneys near me page for broader advice.
Types of Compensation Available After a Fatal or Serious Crash
Surviving family in wrongful death cases can pursue damages for medical bills before death funeral expenses lost income loss of companionship pain and suffering and more. In non-fatal wrecks claims cover hospital costs rehab lost wages future care and emotional harm. Values depend on evidence of fault damages and insurance coverage. Many ask how much is my personal injury claim worth or how long does it take to get a personal injury settlement. We evaluate cases to provide realistic expectations.
Visit how much is my personal injury claim worth for factors that influence amounts.
How Lopez Law Group Supports Victims Across Texas
Our firm manages serious injury and wrongful death cases statewide including Central Texas areas like Temple. We investigate thoroughly review reports consult experts negotiate with insurers and litigate aggressively when required. Bilingual in English and Spanish we serve diverse clients. No win no fee structure means no upfront fees. If you need auto accident advice hurt in a car wreck help or who to call after car accident we respond 24/7.
For nearby or related areas see pages like Texas car accident attorney statewide Austin car accident lawyer for Central Texas Dallas personal injury lawyer for North Texas or personal injury lawyers McAllen Weslaco TX for Rio Grande Valley focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can families claim after a fatal single-vehicle crash?
Yes wrongful death claims allow recovery from liable parties including insurance or government if applicable.
How long to file a claim in Texas?
Generally two years from the crash date though government cases need faster action. Begin soon after an accident.
What if the crash seems like driver error only?
Insurance may still pay under policies. We check for all possible sources of compensation.
Do I need a lawyer for this type of crash?
Yes to navigate insurance investigations deadlines and maximize recovery in car accident claim situations.
What are your fees?
We charge nothing unless we secure money for you.
Closing Thoughts
This fatal crash on I-35 northbound near Buc-ee’s in Temple highlights sudden dangers on Texas highways. Drivers and families often search what to do after getting in a car accident what to do in an accident after an accident steps or traffic accident procedure. If this incident or another wreck caused loss or injury avoid handling insurance alone. We provide clear guidance on car accident claims help report motor vehicle accident details and advocate strongly for fair outcomes.
Reach Lopez Law Group anytime for a free consultation. Submit our form or call us. We serve victims throughout Texas from the Rio Grande Valley to Central and North Texas with dedicated support. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X for the latest updates!
Related Posts
Common Causes of Texas Car Accidents
Wrongful Death Claims in Texas
Disclaimer
This post draws from public news sources for informational purposes only. It is not legal advice. Cases vary widely. Speak with a lawyer about your specific circumstances. Prior results do not ensure similar outcomes in new matters.
