Safety Alert: Travis County Fire Rescue Warns Drivers About Repeated Crashes at U.S. 183 and FM 812

Over the past four to five months, Travis County Fire Rescue crews have responded to a concerning number of crashes at the intersection of U.S. 183 and FM 812. Based on our experience responding to these incidents, speed and confusion involving left turns across multiple lanes of traffic appear to be contributing factors in many of the crashes.

Firefighters and law enforcement respond to a vehicle accident on FM812.

Drivers turning left from FM 812 across westbound U.S. 183 toward the VFW or nearby flea market may encounter stopped or backed-up traffic. In some cases, a driver in one lane may wave another vehicle through while traffic in the adjacent lane continues moving.

Emergency responders assess the scene after a collision leaves a vehicle extensively damaged.

A driver waving you through does not necessarily mean it is safe to cross.

Before turning or crossing multiple lanes of traffic, make sure you can see and verify that all lanes are clear. Never assume that traffic in another lane has stopped simply because one driver has yielded.

Front end of a vehicle showing extensive damage following a collision, with crumpled metal and broken components visible.

Speed is also a concern. Vehicles traveling along U.S. 183 and FM 812 may be traveling at speeds of approximately 50 to 60 mph, leaving drivers with very little time to react to a vehicle turning across traffic.

Two vehicles, a white SUV and a blue sedan, are seen damaged after a collision, with emergency responders working in the background.

Travis County Fire Rescue is working to raise awareness about the safety concerns at this intersection and explore potential solutions with transportation and road safety officials. In the meantime, we urge drivers to:

• Slow down and remain alert.

• Never rely solely on another driver waving you through.

• Check every lane of traffic before turning or crossing.

• Never assume a vehicle in an adjacent lane has stopped.

• Allow extra time when turning into the VFW or nearby businesses.

This intersection is a reminder that even a well-intentioned gesture from another driver can create a dangerous situation when all lanes of traffic are not visible. Take your time, stay alert, and make sure the way is clear before proceeding.

Firefighters work under the hood of a vehicle, responding to a roadside collision.

Emergency responders work together at the scene of a vehicle collision on FM812.

Front view of a severely damaged vehicle, showcasing extensive dents and a shattered bumper, highlighting the aftermath of a collision.

Travis County Fire Rescue Responds to a vehicle collision on FM812.

Emergency responders manage the aftermath of a roadside accident involving multiple vehicles as a firefighter clears debris while an EMS vehicle stands ready to assist.

Watch the KVUE report

For more information about the repeated crashes at the intersection and the safety concerns raised by Travis County Fire Rescue, watch KVUE's report here: 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xokiRqUYA74&t=5s

Please share this message with family, friends, and anyone who regularly travels U.S. 183 and FM 812.