Tyler, TX (July 5, 2025) – A serious collision involving a tanker truck and a Nissan Altima on U.S. Highway 271 near Interstate 20 sent four people to the hospital Saturday afternoon. Smith County Emergency Services District 2 reported that law enforcement and EMS crews were dispatched at around 2:11 p.m. on July 5 after the two vehicles collided along the busy stretch of highway.
Emergency responders worked tirelessly at the scene to extract three individuals trapped inside the Nissan Altima. Those inside the car were said to have suffered severe or life-threatening injuries. All three victims were rushed to a local hospital for immediate medical attention. The driver of the tanker truck also sustained injuries in the wreck and was transported to the hospital. Due to the impact and debris scattered across the roadway, part of U.S. Highway 271 was temporarily blocked as first responders secured the area and cleared the wreckage. Traffic delays and detours were reported as law enforcement investigated what led up to this devastating incident. The Tyler Police Department and other local authorities are continuing to examine the factors that may have caused the crash, including the possibility of driver error, mechanical failure, or weather-related conditions. Updates will be provided as the investigation unfolds.
We hope all those injured in this accident recover quickly.
Car Accidents in Texas
Motor vehicle accidents in Texas remain an ongoing public safety concern, with thousands of crashes happening on state roadways each year. The Texas Department of Transportation reports that more than 15,000 serious injury crashes were recorded in the state in a recent year alone. Car wrecks like this one serve as a stark reminder of the dangers that can appear unexpectedly on any Texas road or highway. Staying informed about common causes and consequences of car crashes can help drivers remain vigilant behind the wheel.
Learning about the risks involved in car accidents can make a real difference. Here are four common injuries victims may experience in a Texas car accident:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Head trauma is among the most common injuries in severe vehicle crashes. Concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive or physical challenges. Immediate medical evaluation is critical to detect hidden brain injuries early on.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis. Victims may face extensive rehabilitation and lifestyle adjustments to regain independence. Early intervention and specialized care can improve outcomes.
- Broken Bones: Fractures frequently occur in high-impact wrecks. Broken arms, legs, ribs, or hips often require surgery and months of physical therapy. Even after healing, some victims experience lingering pain or reduced mobility.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause damage to vital organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs. Internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent, so prompt medical treatment is essential to prevent life-threatening complications.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, contacting an experienced Tyler car accident attorney is crucial. Seeking legal help right away can make all the difference in protecting your rights, preserving evidence, and pursuing the full compensation you need to move forward. An attorney can handle insurance companies and legal details while you focus on healing. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve.
When you need a trusted legal partner in your corner, The McGuire Firm is here for you. Our team has handled over 3,000 cases for East Texans, helping car accident victims move from shock and confusion to recovery and relief. We’ve worked both sides of the courtroom, so we understand how insurance companies think—and how to counter their tactics. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. Our dedication to our clients’ recovery drives everything we do. We offer free consultations to help you understand your options. Call our Tyler car accident attorneys today at (903) 630-7154 to get started on your path to healing.