Icy Conditions Cause Deadly 12-Car Pile-Up on I-10

 Posted on February 09, 2026 in Car Accidents

On January 24, a tragic multi-vehicle crash on I-10 in Kimble County claimed the life of a man from Florida and left others injured. According to local news, the Texas Department of Public Safety reported that 12 vehicles were involved in the collision around 6:30 p.m. near mile marker 470. The accident happened during a major winter storm that brought snow, sleet, and ice to Texas roads.

The man who died was driving a Toyota pickup when another vehicle struck his truck, causing it to veer into the south ditch. Other cars became involved in the wreck. In the commotion, a trailer detached from one of the semi-trucks and landed on the man’s vehicle.

Everyone involved in crashes like this – especially the families of anyone who is killed – will want to know what they are supposed to do next. If you are injured in a winter weather accident in Texas, a Kennedy car accident attorney can help you understand your next steps.

Why Winter Weather in Texas is So Dangerous

South and Central Texas drivers face unique challenges when winter weather strikes. Unlike northern areas or the panhandle, southern Texas rarely gets serious storms. Drivers often lack experience with icy roads and good winter tires to handle them. Infrastructure is also not designed for winter weather.

Ice usually poses the biggest threat to drivers. Freezing rain makes a thin, slippery layer on roads, often invisible to drivers. Bridges and overpasses freeze first, making freeways especially dangerous. Bigger, heavier vehicles, like commercial trucks, are especially vulnerable to icy conditions. Several of these were involved in the crash on I-10.

Who Is Liable in Winter Weather Accidents?

In pile-ups, liability is complex. When commercial trucks are involved, trucking companies can be held responsible if they did not train drivers properly, pressured drivers despite dangerous conditions, or did not do maintenance. If a trailer detaches, as it did in the January 24 crash, investigators will examine whether it was properly secured in the first place.

While no one has currently been found liable for the January accident, remember that bad weather doesn’t excuse unsafe driving. Under the "basic speed law" in Texas, drivers must adjust their behavior to road conditions. Posted speed limits are for ideal conditions, not ice. Even in a 75 mph zone, driving 40 mph may still be much too fast on ice.

Investigators look at whether drivers were speeding – based on conditions, not just the written speed limit – following too closely, or not keeping control of their vehicle. Anyone found not doing these things may be held at least partially liable.

What Compensation Can Victims of Winter Accidents Expect?

Compensation may include: 

• Medical expenses
• Ongoing care costs
• Lost wages
• Future earning capacity if injuries cause permanent disability
• Pain and suffering damages that account for physical pain and emotional trauma

When a loved one is killed, surviving family members may receive wrongful death compensation, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and mental anguish.

Call a New Braunfels Truck Accident Attorney Today

Winter weather accidents involving multiple vehicles need immediate legal attention. Insurance companies will move quickly to minimize their liability, and evidence can disappear as roads are cleared. A Kennedy, TX car accident lawyer can help.

At The Bettersworth Law Firm, our truck wreck lawyers have 25 years of legal experience handling complex vehicle accidents. We are aggressive yet compassionate advocates who keep our caseload low so we can devote our full attention to each case. You will have direct, regular contact with the attorney handling your case. You will never be just a number with us.

Contact The Bettersworth Law Firm at 830-606-0404 today for a free consultation.