Dodge Ram pickup truck and a tractor-trailer struck the man south of Abbott
March 26, 2026 | Hill, TX
A 25-year-old man from Missouri lost his life in a tragic pedestrian incident in Hill County.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Gage Ward, 25, died after he was hit by a pickup truck and a tractor-trailer on Interstate 35 south of Abbott in Hill County.
What Happened in the Crash?
The accident occurred at approximately 4:30 a.m. on March 19 along Interstate 35 south of Abbott.
Key details include:
- Victim: Gage Ward, 25, from Missouri
- Vehicles Involved: Dodge Ram pickup truck and a tractor-trailer
- Location: Southbound lanes of Interstate 35, Hill County, Texas
- Outcome: Ward was pronounced dead at the scene
- Investigation: Handled by the Texas Department of Public Safety
Authorities continue to examine factors that may have contributed to the incident.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities across the United States have risen sharply in recent years, outpacing other traffic deaths. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA), these incidents often stem from multiple causes.
Factor |
Description |
Impact on Pedestrian Safety |
|---|
Speeding |
Drivers exceeding posted limits reduce reaction time |
Increases the severity of collision, contributing to 30% of cases per GHSA data |
Driver Error |
Failure to yield or improper lane changes |
The primary cause in urban highway settings like I-35 |
Distracted Driving |
Use of phones or other diversions |
Leads to 8% of fatal pedestrian crashes, per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) |
Impaired Driving |
Alcohol or drug influence |
Doubles the risk of pedestrian involvement, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
From 2009 to 2023, pedestrian deaths surged by 80%, compared to a 13% rise in overall traffic fatalities. This trend highlights the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures on highways such as Interstate 35.
Legal Insights on Pedestrian Crashes
In cases such as this, thorough investigations play a crucial role in understanding pedestrian accidents. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the importance of independent reviews.
“Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a pedestrian accident case and prove negligence,” said Bond. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping those who have lost a loved one receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”
Key takeaways from such analyses include:
- Independent investigations can uncover hidden factors like poor lighting or signage issues.
- Proving negligence requires a detailed examination of vehicle data and witness accounts.
- Families benefit from legal support to navigate complex investigations.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, adds perspective on supporting affected families.
“We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital,” said Formica. “A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of.”
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
The family of Gage Ward may pursue a wrongful death claim to address losses from this devastating accident. Such claims can cover:
- Loss of companionship and support
- Pain and suffering endured by the victim
- Emotional distress for surviving relatives
These legal avenues aim to provide compensation following catastrophic motor vehicle incidents. For guidance, families are encouraged to consult professionals familiar with Texas traffic laws.
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).