Common Causes of Intersection Accidents in San Antonio

San Antonio’s busy streets see their fair share of accidents, especially at intersections where traffic patterns collide. With a growing population and an increasing number of vehicles on the road, navigating these bustling junctions has become more challenging than ever. Understanding why these accidents happen and what legal steps you can take afterward is essential for protecting your rights and ensuring accountability.

Understanding the Complexity of Intersection Accidents

Intersections are hotspots for accidents due to their unique layout and the variety of decisions drivers must make in a short amount of time. Whether it’s a simple two-way stop or a multi-lane intersection with traffic lights and turn signals, each brings its risks. In San Antonio, intersections and major thoroughfares often see frequent crashes. These busy intersections combine high traffic volume with distracted driving, speeding, and other dangerous behaviors, creating a recipe for disaster.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains one of the most common causes of accidents at intersections in San Antonio. With drivers checking their phones, fiddling with navigation systems, or simply daydreaming, reaction times drop significantly. At intersections, where quick decision-making is critical, even a brief moment of distraction can result in catastrophic consequences. For example, a driver distracted with a text message might miss a red light, leading to a T-bone collision with another vehicle.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

San Antonio’s sprawling urban layout often tempts drivers to speed, especially on major roads connecting residential and commercial areas. However, speeding reduces the time drivers have to react to changing traffic signals or sudden movements from other vehicles. Reckless behaviors like aggressive lane changes or speeding up before yellow lights amplify the risk of accidents at intersections. These actions not only endanger the offending driver but also put law-abiding motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians at risk.

Failure to Yield

Another significant factor in intersection accidents is the failure to yield. Drivers turning left often misjudge the speed and distance of oncoming vehicles, leading to dangerous collisions. Similarly, drivers entering an intersection from a stop sign or yield sign may fail to notice cross traffic or assume they have more time than they do.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment, reaction time, and overall driving ability. In San Antonio, DUI-related accidents are a frequent issue, especially during holidays or major events. Intoxicated drivers are more likely to run red lights, make illegal turns, or misinterpret traffic patterns at intersections, causing severe accidents.

Weather and Road Conditions

San Antonio’s weather can also play a role in intersection accidents. Sudden rainstorms often create slick roads, reducing traction and making it harder for vehicles to stop in time. Poorly maintained intersections with faded lane markings or malfunctioning traffic lights can add to the confusion, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

Legal Recourse After an Intersection Accident

If you’ve been involved in an intersection accident in San Antonio, understanding your legal options is crucial. Texas law provides clear guidelines for determining fault and seeking compensation, but navigating these laws can feel overwhelming, especially after a traumatic event.

Determining Fault

The first step in any legal process after a car accident is determining who was at fault. Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule, meaning you can recover damages if you are less than 51% responsible for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Evidence like police reports, eyewitness accounts, and traffic camera footage can help establish liability.

Seeking Medical Attention

Seeking immediate medical attention after an accident is important not only for your health but also for your legal case.

Medical records provide concrete evidence of the injuries you sustained, which can be critical when negotiating with insurance companies or presenting your case in court. Even if you feel fine immediately after the crash, underlying injuries like whiplash or internal trauma can appear later, so a thorough medical evaluation is always recommended.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Interacting with insurance companies can be one of the most stressful parts of the aftermath of an accident. Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim or shift blame onto you to reduce their payout. It’s essential to document everything, including photos of the accident scene, medical records, and repair estimates for your vehicle. Consulting with an attorney before making any statements to an insurance company can protect your rights and ensure you don’t unintentionally harm your claim.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit

In cases where insurance settlements fail to cover your damages, you may consider filing a personal injury lawsuit. Under Texas law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. Working with an experienced attorney can help you navigate this process, from gathering evidence to representing you in court. Compensation in these cases often covers medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and even pain and suffering.

Call Pelaez Law Firm Today

Intersection accidents in San Antonio are a complex issue influenced by a variety of factors, from driver behavior to road conditions. Understanding these causes can help you stay vigilant on the road while knowing your legal rights ensures you’re prepared if an accident does occur. Whether it’s negotiating with insurance companies or filing a lawsuit, having the right knowledge and support can make all the difference.

To schedule a free case evaluation with our team, call the Crash Angels at Pelaez Law Firm today at 210-801-9314. If you’re concerned about losing a legal battle and being further in debt than when you started, you don’t need to worry about it with us! Remember, with the Crash Angels, you don’t pay unless we win; you don’t pay until we win.