Fatal 18-Wheeler Crash at North Central Expressway and I-635 in Dallas Leaves One Dead, One Critically Injured

Modified Date: 
Fri, 10/09/2026 - 7:43am
Accident Date: 
Monday, October 5, 2026

1 dead, 1 critical after crash with 18-wheeler in Dallas, police say

Just before 12:30 p.m., Dallas police were called to Central and 635 for a multi-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheeler.

 

One driver was killed and another was hospitalized in critical condition following a multi-vehicle crash involving an 18-wheeler on North Central Expressway in Dallas on Monday afternoon, according to the Dallas Police Department. Officers were dispatched just before 12:30 p.m. to the area of Central Expressway (U.S. 75) and Interstate 635 (LBJ Freeway), one of the most heavily traveled freeway junctions in North Texas. One of the drivers involved was pronounced dead at the scene. A second driver was taken to a hospital in critical condition, police said. The names of those involved were not included in the initial police information. Dallas police have not said how many vehicles were involved or what led up to the collision, and no information about citations or charges has been released. The investigation remains ongoing. Accident Data Center extends its condolences to the family and loved ones of the driver who lost their life and hopes for the recovery of the driver who was injured. Anyone who witnessed the crash may be able to assist investigators by contacting the Dallas Police Department.

Location and Infrastructure

The junction of North Central Expressway (U.S. 75) and LBJ Freeway (I-635) is known locally as the "High Five," a five-level stack interchange in north Dallas near the city's border with Richardson. The interchange links major routes serving Dallas, Richardson, Plano, Garland, and the surrounding suburbs, and it carries a large volume of commuter traffic alongside commercial freight, including tractor-trailers. The area includes multilane mainlanes, elevated direct-connector ramps, frontage roads, and managed express lanes along LBJ Freeway, which create frequent merge points and lane changes. Heavy traffic volumes, varying speeds between lanes, and the blind spots associated with large commercial trucks can increase the risk of serious collisions on this corridor. Drivers traveling through the area are encouraged to maintain safe following distances, watch for merging traffic, and allow extra space around 18-wheelers.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Texas follows an at-fault system for motor vehicle collisions, meaning the party found responsible is generally liable for resulting damages. State law requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per injured person, $60,000 per crash, and $25,000 for property damage. Under Texas's modified comparative responsibility rule (Chapter 33 of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code), a person found more than 50 percent responsible cannot recover damages. Commercial motor carriers are also subject to federal safety and financial responsibility regulations. Texas generally imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. Compensation that may be available includes medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and, in wrongful death cases, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. This information is general in nature and is not legal advice.

Related Resources

Local Emergency Services

Traffic Safety Resources

Support Services for Accident Victims and Families

  • Texas Department of Insurance Consumer Help Line: 800-252-3439 – tdi.texas.gov
  • Texas Attorney General Crime Victims' Compensation Program – texasattorneygeneral.gov/crime-victims
  • MADD Victim Services: 877-623-3435 – madd.org
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988) for emotional support

Texas Traffic Laws and Regulations

City: 
Dallas, TX