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MUSTANG RIDGE, Travis County, Texas, Sept. 20, 2026 — A 17-year-old was critically injured early on Sunday, September 20, after being struck by a vehicle in Mustang Ridge.
The crash was reported around 1:30 a.m. in the 6400 block of FM 1327 Rd near Evelyn Rd. The teenager suffered life-threatening injuries, according to officials.
Emergency crews called in a STAR Flight helicopter to take the victim to Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, authorities reported. The teen's condition has not been updated publicly since the crash.
Details on the vehicle involved and the circumstances leading up to the crash have not been released. The incident remains under investigation, and no additional information has been made available.
Our thoughts are with those who were injured, and we wish them a full recovery.
Who Faces the Greatest Risk in Overnight Pedestrian Crashes
Late-night and early-morning hours carry outsized risk for people on foot. Roadways that are well-traveled by day usually go dark and quiet after midnight, and drivers can be less prepared to spot someone walking along the shoulder or crossing outside a marked area.
Teenagers and young adults are frequently involved in nighttime pedestrian crashes, in part because overnight hours coincide with reduced visibility and lower traffic volume, which can lead drivers to expect an empty road. Rural and semi-rural roads, like many in fast-growing parts of Travis County, frequently lack sidewalks, lighting, or marked crossings, leaving pedestrians closer to moving traffic than in urban settings.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, pedestrian deaths accounted for 18 percent of all traffic fatalities in 2023. That figure reflects how much exposure people on foot have when a roadway is designed primarily for vehicle speed rather than shared use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do most pedestrian accidents happen?
Many occur on roads without sidewalks or crosswalks, particularly where posted speeds are higher and lighting is limited, such as rural highways and undivided arterial roads.
Are pedestrian accidents more common at night?
Yes. Reduced visibility and lower driver expectations of foot traffic make nighttime and early-morning hours a higher-risk window for pedestrians.
What should a pedestrian do after being hit by a car?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor, since some, like internal injuries or concussions, may not be obvious right away. Contact law enforcement so a report can be filed.
Who has the right of way at a crosswalk?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections, though drivers and pedestrians both share responsibility for watching for one another, especially where lighting is poor.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Crash in Mustang Ridge, TX
Anyone who witnesses a pedestrian crash should call 911 right away and avoid moving an injured person unless there is immediate danger. Staying on the scene until first responders arrive can help ensure accurate information reaches investigators.
If you or a family member is involved in a pedestrian crash, getting a full medical evaluation as soon as possible is important, since injuries from being struck by a vehicle can be more serious than they first appear. Keeping records of medical visits and any communication with law enforcement can help later if questions arise about what happened.
Community members in Mustang Ridge can also support recovery by checking in on injured neighbors and being mindful of pedestrians when driving through areas with limited lighting or sidewalks.
