The newly opened SH130 claimed its first life in Mustang Ridge over the weekend.
60 year-old Martha Harris was pronounced dead on the scene after her Honda Civic collided with a Chevy Tahoe Sunday afternoon. Though this was not the first accident since the road opened on October 24, it is being considered the most tragic.
The highway, also known as the Pickle Parkway, is a 45 mile stretch of road that is more infamously known for having the highest speed limit in the country at 85 MPH.
Police are still investigating what exactly caused the accident and have yet to release any information as to how fast the vehicles were traveling at the time of the accident.
Luckily the passengers in the Tahoe were reportedly okay and suffered only minor injuries that were treated on site by paramedics.
Though accidents are obviously a common occurrence between vehicles on any stretch of road, the 85 MPH limit does raise questions as to whether the road is too dangerous for drivers to handle.
Governor Rick Perry has hailed the new highway as a “historic” accomplishment for the state of Texas. Additionally, supporters claim that the new speed limit will lead to higher productivity and offer drivers less time on the road giving them more time to spend with their families.
Regardless of the rewards, it goes without saying that this new experiment from Texas officials is adding even more dangers for drivers in our great state.
Be prepared and always have a personal injury and accident attorney in Dallas ready should you ever need legal help.