Who Is at Fault in a Multi-Car Pileup in Texas?

 Posted on October 15, 2025 in Car Accidents

In May 2025, a tragic crash occurred at the intersection of Woodrow Bean Transmountain Drive and North Desert Road in northwest El Paso. A semi-truck towing another disabled truck failed to stop in time and slammed into vehicles that were stopped at a red light. The collision involved 12 vehicles, resulting in the death of a 65-year-old man and injuries to at least seven others. The accident resulted in significant losses and several lawsuits.

Car crashes like these often cause serious injuries, major property damage, and confusion about who should pay. If you suffered injuries in a multi-car pileup, you need an experienced El Paso County, TX car accident lawyer to guide you through the legal process.

How Is Fault Determined in a Multi-Vehicle Pileup?

Texas uses a fault-based system in personal injury claims. This means the driver who causes the crash must pay for the damage and injuries that result. Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.021, drivers involved in a crash that causes injury or death must stop, exchange information, and help anyone who is hurt. Sometimes, determining fault is straightforward, such as in the Transmountain crash described above. Other times, it can be much more complicated.

To find out who caused a pileup, investigators look at every detail. Police reports, witness statements, photos, and dashcam or traffic camera footage all help piece together what happened. Sometimes, experts use computer programs or specialists to recreate the crash and show which car started the chain reaction.

Who Could Be Liable for a Multi-Vehicle Collision?

In a multi-car pileup, several drivers may share responsibility. Common examples of actions that could cause the first collision in a multi-vehicle crash include:

• A speeding driver who rear-ends another vehicle

• A distracted driver who fails to brake in time because they were using a phone or adjusting the radio

• A tailgating driver who leaves too little space to stop safely

• A truck driver or trucking company that ignored maintenance issues or violated hours-of-service rules, leading to brake failure or driver fatigue

• A vehicle manufacturer that sold a car with a defective part, like faulty brakes or tires, which caused a loss of control

• A government agency or road contractor that failed to repair potholes, clear debris, or install proper warning signs, making the crash more likely

Understanding who is liable is crucial because Texas law allows multiple parties to share fault. An attorney can help identify each responsible party and pursue every available source of compensation.

What if More Than One Party Is at Fault for a Multi-Car Pileup in Texas?

When more than one person shares responsibility, Texas law allows fault to be divided among everyone involved. This is called proportionate responsibility. Sometimes, outside factors also play a role. For example, poor road conditions, defective car parts, or bad weather can make a crash worse. If a tire or brake defect caused the crash, you might be able to file a product liability claim under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 82.001. If the government failed to fix a dangerous road or put up warning signs, it could also share some of the blame.

Even if you think you were partly at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation. Our attorneys can walk you through the process of determining liability in your case.

Contact an Experienced El Paso, TX Car Accident Attorney Today

If you were hurt in a multi-car pileup, you need a lawyer who truly understands these complex cases. Attorney James Kennedy is certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a title earned by fewer than 3 percent of attorneys in Texas. He has a deep understanding of the laws that apply to these cases. He will put his extensive courtroom experience in personal injury law to work for you.

Contact James Kennedy, P.L.L.C. today at 915-544-5200 to schedule a free consultation with an El Paso County, TX car accident lawyer who has the experience you need. Se habla Español.