Austin, TX (October 14, 2026) – An adult pedestrian died after being struck by a vehicle on East State Highway 71 near Brandt Drive in Austin on Wednesday, October 14.
The collision occurred at approximately 5:54 a.m. in the westbound lanes of the 1600 block of East State Highway 71, near Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
Austin-Travis County EMS said medics attempted to resuscitate the pedestrian, but the adult died at the crash site despite their efforts.
The Texas Department of Transportation reported that two westbound lanes were closed following the collision. Both lanes have since reopened.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
We extend our sincere condolences to the pedestrian’s family and loved ones.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Austin, TX?
In Austin and throughout Texas, a surviving spouse, children, and parents can file a wrongful death claim, either individually or together. If none files within three months of the death, the estate’s representative must pursue the claim unless all eligible family members request otherwise.
Before your family can recover compensation, you must establish that another party’s negligence or wrongful actions caused the death. A fatal crash alone does not establish fault. Whether a claim is possible depends on the circumstances and available evidence.
Although one family member may file the lawsuit, other eligible relatives can also receive compensation. The person who files does not automatically receive the entire award. A jury may divide damages based on the losses each eligible family member experienced.
Depending on your family’s losses, compensation may include lost financial support, household services, companionship, mental anguish, and eligible funeral expenses. A separate survival claim may also cover losses the deceased experienced before death, including medical expenses when applicable.
Under Texas law, families generally have two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Certain exceptions may affect this deadline. Filing too late could prevent your family from pursuing compensation through the courts.
Because Texas law limits who can file a wrongful death claim, a wrongful death lawyer can review your family’s situation and explain who is eligible. An attorney can also help prepare the necessary paperwork and handle communications with insurance companies.
Brian C. Gutierrez helps families across Texas after losing a loved one in a fatal crash. We take the time to understand each family’s circumstances and provide guidance throughout the claims process.
If you lost a loved one in a crash in Austin, contact Brian C. Gutierrez at (979) 243-9912. We can answer your questions and explain the legal options available to your family.
Note: This post is based on information obtained from publicly available secondary sources. While we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information presented, Brian C. Gutierrez, PLLC has not independently verified all details of the incident reported. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please contact Brian C. Gutierrez, PLLC so we can promptly review and update the content.
Disclaimer: The content of this post is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal or medical advice. Reading this post does not create an attorney-client relationship with Brian C. Gutierrez, PLLC. If you have been injured in an accident, seek appropriate medical care and consult a qualified attorney regarding your legal options. Any images included are for illustrative purposes only and do not depict the actual accident scene or individuals involved.
