Smith County, TX (May 9, 2025) – A serious collision occurred Thursday afternoon on Highway 271 at County Road 383, leaving at least one person injured and causing heavy traffic disruptions in the area. The wreck happened on May 8, just after 2 p.m., in a rural part of Smith County.
Emergency units responded swiftly to the scene of the major crash. Authorities closed off sections of Highway 271 to allow medical personnel and officers to tend to those involved and assess the extent of the damage. At least one injured person was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. Witnesses in the area reported seeing multiple vehicles stopped and emergency vehicles blocking access to the roadway. Traffic was backed up as first responders worked to manage the aftermath of the crash and direct drivers away from the scene. Officers remained on site for over an hour, documenting evidence and speaking to those involved. While police continue to investigate, the exact number of individuals involved and the cause of the crash has not been released.
We hope those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Car Accidents in Texas
Across Texas, motor vehicle crashes remain a significant concern for public safety. The Texas Department of Transportation recorded over 15,000 serious injury crashes in 2023 alone. Rural areas like Smith County can present unique challenges, such as limited visibility and higher travel speeds, which increase the risk of serious injuries.
Let’s break down some of the most common causes of car accidents across Texas:
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Distracted Driving: Texting, adjusting the radio, or even eating behind the wheel can pull a driver’s focus from the road. A few seconds of distraction is often enough to cause a severe crash. Increased awareness campaigns aim to combat this growing issue.
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Speeding: Traveling over the speed limit gives drivers less time to react and increases the severity of collisions. In rural regions especially, higher speeds on open roads can lead to devastating results when vehicles collide.
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Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drug impairment remains a factor in many fatal and serious injury crashes. Despite strict penalties, impaired driving continues to impact road safety throughout Texas.
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Failure to Yield: Intersections and merging lanes can be hotspots for collisions when drivers fail to yield the right of way. These preventable errors often result in T-bone or side-impact crashes.
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Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and slick roads can create dangerous driving conditions. Drivers who fail to adjust to weather risks increase the chance of losing control or rear-ending others.
If you or someone you love was involved in a crash like the one on Highway 271, reach out to a Tyler car accident attorney right away. A timely consultation can make a major difference in your case. From dealing with insurance adjusters to organizing medical bills and vehicle repairs, having someone familiar with the legal process matters. You don’t need to carry that weight alone—help is available.
At The McGuire Firm, we offer free consultations and are ready to help you through this difficult time. Our team has represented thousands of injured East Texans and helped them find a path forward. We’ve been on both sides of the courtroom and know how insurance companies think. If you don’t win, you don’t pay us—it’s that simple. Let us focus on the legal work while you concentrate on healing. We’re just a call away at (903) 630-7154. Reach out today, and let’s take the next step together.