Austin Continues to Struggle With I-35 Rock Throwing

The Austin Police Department and local residents are becoming increasingly frustrated as the number of rock-throwing incidents in the downtown area continue to escalate without any information on who may be responsible or what is being done to keep drivers safe. There were a total of 13 separate incidents reported during the weekend of May 20th alone – leaving 5 people injured and bringing the total number of cases since July 2014 to 83.

The Austin Police Department has determined that the rocks are being thrown deliberately, but stop short of offering any specifics for fear of endangering the investigation. However, many suspect the rocks are being thrown from the upper deck of I-35, off of overpasses or even from a vehicle moving in the opposite direction of the motorists who were hit.

Now the Austin Police Department is looking to create a task force to address the problem. Police have considered placing warning signs along the highway and even closing the lower deck at night, which is when most of the incidents occur. Police hope that the signs will alert out-of-town travelers of the risk and provide drivers with instructions in the event that they are hit by a rock.

If you become a victim of rock throwing along I-35, pull over as quickly and safely as possible, call 911 immediately and do not touch the area of impact or the rock. It’s important for police to know the exact time and location of the incident to help catch who’s responsible. The Austin Police Department also recommends that drivers use the outside lanes from 10PM to 6AM, take the upper deck as opposed to the lower deck, and remain aware of their surroundings. Look ahead and use your mirrors constantly.

Victims of rock throwing incidents should also contact an Austin Car Accident Attorney immediately in order to determine their legal rights. An attorney may be able to help you obtain the financial compensation needed to deal with the physical and emotional trauma you may have experienced. If you have been the victim of a rock attack on I-35, contact Terry and Kelly, PLLC at 512-900-9000 for a free consultation and case evaluation.

from Terry & Kelly PLLC http://ift.tt/1XkCfli