Houston, TX (November 26, 2024) – A wrong-way crash involving a METRO bus and a car early Monday morning has left three people hospitalized, including one with life-threatening injuries. The incident occurred around 9:00 AM in the HOV/HOT lane of the I-45 North Freeway, northbound at Main. According to preliminary investigations by METRO, a driver bypassed a gate closure and entered the lane, traveling the wrong way. The crash resulted in significant injuries to the individuals involved, with two passengers from the bus taken to the hospital and the wrong-way driver hospitalized with life-threatening injuries.
The I-45 northbound lanes, including the HOV/HOT lane, were shut down for several hours following the crash, causing traffic disruptions. Fortunately, the roadway has since reopened, but investigators continue to gather details about the crash. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.
Wrong-Way Accidents in Texas
Wrong-way driving accidents, such as the one that occurred on I-45 North Freeway at Main, are among the most dangerous and deadly types of collisions on Texas roadways. These accidents often involve high-speed impacts, as drivers traveling in the wrong direction are often unable to avoid oncoming traffic. In this case, the METRO bus was unable to prevent the collision after the wrong-way driver entered the lane, leading to the crash.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by wrong-way drivers, especially in high-speed lanes like the HOV/HOT lanes, which are designed to allow faster-moving vehicles. While this crash was tragic, it’s worth noting that wrong-way driving accidents can often be prevented through better enforcement, clearer signage, and driver education.
Local authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of this crash, including factors such as whether alcohol or impairment played a role, as well as the exact details of how the driver was able to bypass the gate closure.
Local Accident Reports will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more details become available. If you or a loved one has been affected by a similar incident, it may be beneficial to seek legal counsel to better understand your rights and options moving forward.