San Antonio Car Accident Lawyer

People are hurt and killed in auto accidents every day across San Antonio and Texas.

Car accidents can place a sudden and overwhelming financial and emotional burden on you and your family. In an instant, someone's stupid mistake can turn your whole world upside down.

Call Shaw When You Were Injured in a Car Accident in San Antonio

Texas is an at-fault state. That means that if you were hurt in a car crash caused by a negligent driver, you are entitled to compensation for things like:

  • Medical expenses and bills from your car accident
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Missed work / lost income
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • And more

Texas also has special laws in place if the driver is particularly reckless, awarding the victim punitive damages. These are also called "punishment damages," intended to discourage reckless behavior.

In order for you to recover damages after a car accident injury, you must prove:

  • The driver(s) owed you a duty of care
  • The driver(s) neglected that duty (i.e., were negligent)
  • That neglect of duty directly caused the accident
  • You were hurt as a result

Injured in an auto accident in San Antonio? Call the Carabin Shaw car accident law firm at 800-862-1260 for immediate, 24/7 assistance. Our San Antonio auto accident lawyers are here to help you get a fair settlement from the insurance companies.

Common Acts of Negligence in San Antonio Car Accidents

If you want to recover compensation after a Texas car accident, you have to prove that the other driver was responsible for the accident. That means you and our legal team are tasked to demonstrate that the other driver's negligence caused your injury.

Drivers owe each other a duty of care to follow the rules of the road and prioritize the safety of other drivers and pedestrians. Common acts of negligence, which is a breach of this duty, include:

Sometimes, drivers are more than just negligent. Reckless actions go beyond simple carelessness and include things like:

  • Drunk driving
  • Aggressive driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs
  • Street racing
  • Road rage
  • Extreme speeding

Proving negligence falls to the injured party and can be difficult for him or her without access to the proper resources. Because of this, if you are hurt in an auto accident, it's a good idea to talk to the experienced personal injury attorneys in our law firm about your case.

Get expert legal advice for your injuries from our San Antonio car accident lawyers. Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 to talk to our experienced legal team about your case for free.

The Most Dangerous Roads and Intersections in San Antonio
  • Loop 410 - over 3,440 accidents
  • IH 10 - over 3,000 crashes
  • IH 35 - over 3,000 accidents
  • Loop 1604 - over 1,800 crashes
  • US 281 / San Pedro - over 1,300 accidents
  • US 90 - just under 1,000 crashes
  • Culebra Road and Loop 410
  • Loop 410 and Marbach Road
  • Braun Road and Loop 1604
  • IH 35 and Walzem Road

Call Shaw when you were injured in a car accident at (877) 440-6937.

San Antonio Car Accident Statistics

Accidents are increasingly common in San Antonio. Here's a summary of the accident data from TxDOT for 2024:

  • 39,805 total crashes
  • 162 fatal car accidents
  • 596 suspected serious crashes resulting in 686 serious injuries
  • 6,089 suspected minor crashes resulting in 8,327 minor injuries
  • 5,286 possible injury crashes
  • 9,017 possible injuries
  • 25,431 non-injury crashes
  • 70,733 non-injuries
  • 2,240 crashes of unknown severity
  • 11,569 unknown injuries
Accidents Caused by Drunk Drivers

Drunk drivers are killing and injuring Texans across the state every day. Every 44 minutes, someone in this country dies from a drunk driving accident. Over 11,900 people died in alcohol-related crashes in 2024.

In our opinion, drunk drivers should be punished harshly for killing and hurting innocent victims.

Because drunk driving is more than simply negligent, victims of drunk driving accidents can claim actual and punitive damages. In addition, bars and nightclubs can also bear liability for a drunk-driving accident, though it does not diminish the liability that the driver holds.

Our experienced personal injury lawyers know the laws governing legal responsibility. They can help you identify who might be responsible for your injuries, such as people or businesses you may not have considered.

Accidents Caused by Defective Vehicles

Roughly 2%, or 120,000 accidents per year, are caused by defective vehicles.

When a defective vehicle part causes an accident, neither driver involved in the San Antonio car accident is typically to blame. In such cases, a car manufacturer or a supplier can be held responsible for injuries caused by a defect in the automobile under the law of product liability.

A product liability suit is a lawsuit brought against a company for selling a defective product that caused physical injury to a consumer or user. If a product manufacturer creates a defective product in designing, manufacturing, or labeling, the manufacturer is liable for any injuries the product causes, regardless of whether the manufacturer was negligent.

Accidents Caused by Highway or Road Defects

According to TxDOT, 554,146 accidents in Texas involved roadway conditions in 2024, with 63,973 of those being wet-road crashes.

Sometimes, defects in the road or signage can cause an accident that involves one or more vehicles.

Common highway defects that cause serious car crashes in San Antonio include:

  • Improper or unsafe designs
  • Lack of maintenance (cracks, potholes, etc.)
  • Construction hazards (debris, improperly placed cones, etc.)
  • Defective signs
  • Lack of proper lighting
  • Poorly placed trees
  • Poorly placed utility poles

The road construction company or even the state can be held responsible in such car crash cases. Special rules apply to claims and lawsuits brought against governmental entities.

Good legal advice is critical to winning highway defect claims. Call our law firm and speak with one of our experienced car accident attorneys at 800-862-1260 for immediate assistance from our legal team to see if we can get you maximum compensation.

Road Rage Incidents

Road rage caused 1,713 accidents in Texas in 2024, with 7 of them being fatal.

Road rage is defined as "an assault with a motor vehicle or other dangerous weapon by the operator or passenger(s) of another motor vehicle, or an assault precipitated by an incident that occurred on a roadway." It can be exhibited in many ways, such as:

  • Yelling
  • Threatening
  • Aggressive driving
  • Tailgating
  • Brake-checking
  • Intentionally cutting people off
  • Making unsafe lane changes

Texas law enforcement agencies are renewing efforts to identify and penalize aggressive drivers who speed, tailgate, and engage in other dangerous driving practices.

According to the NHTSA, more than 60 percent of drivers consider unsafe driving by others - such as speeding - a major personal threat to themselves and their families.

A driver may also be found liable for an accident due to his or her intentional or reckless conduct, or for his or her failure to act in accord with a reasonable driver under the same circumstances. A reckless driver operates his vehicle with "willful and wanton disregard" for the rights and well-being of others.

What to Do After a San Antonio Auto Accident

What you do after an accident can directly affect your ability to file a claim.

If you were hurt in a Texas motor vehicle accident, here's what to do to protect your claim. If you are not seriously injured, stay calm and take specific steps to ensure your and others' safety.

Check for Injuries

Evaluate yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is hurt, immediately call 911 and request EMS. If you can't do so, ask a bystander to do it. Provide the dispatcher with the location of the accident and describe the situation thoroughly so they know what to expect.

Move to a Safe Location

If you can move your vehicles to a nearby parking lot or shoulder, do so. Turn on your hazard lights, flares, or warning triangles to warn other drivers if you cannot move your car.

Assess the Situation

If you can, determine the extent of damage to your vehicle and any other vehicles involved. Check for potential hazards, such as leaking fluids, damaged power lines, or fires. If these hazards exist, keep a safe distance and warn others.

Collect and Exchange Information

Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. Get their names, phone numbers, addresses, driver's licenses, and insurance information. Take note of the vehicles' make, model, and license plate numbers. Be polite and cooperative, but avoid admitting fault or assigning blame.

Gather Evidence

Take photos and videos of the accident scene. This covers damage to the vehicles, visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and the positions of vehicles. Look for witnesses and get their contact information if their statements are needed later.

Call the Police

If damage to either vehicle exceeds $1,000 or anyone is injured, you must report the accident to the police. The police will issue an accident report. It's always a good idea to have a police report after an accident, and it is usually required to file an insurance claim. Cooperate with the responding officer and provide accurate information.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

You must do this quickly, as any delay could impact your claim. Provide them with the accident details, the other driver's information, and the police report, if applicable. Follow their instructions for filing a claim.

Seek Medical Attention

Even if you don't feel injured, get evaluated by a medical professional after your accident. Some injuries don't show themselves immediately but are life-threatening if not quickly treated. Only a medical professional can assess your condition. Keep all medical records related to the accident.

After everyone is safe, the accident is properly reported, and you have sought medical attention, it's time to deal with the accident's aftermath.

Follow Up With Insurance

If applicable, work closely with your insurance adjuster to process your claim, covering vehicle repairs and medical expenses.

Call Shaw

If the accident involved serious injuries, traumatic brain injuries, soft tissue injuries, fatalities, disputed liability, or complex legal issues, it is advisable to consult the experienced accident lawyers at our law firm. We specialize in personal injury lawsuits. Several of our attorneys are board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.

Track Expenses

This is important - keep detailed records of all expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills, vehicle repair receipts, rental car costs, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.

Vehicle Repair

Arrange for your vehicle to be repaired by an insurance-approved repair shop or a trusted mechanic.

Stay Informed

Keep yourself in the loop about the progress of your insurance claim and any legal proceedings, if applicable.

Consider Counseling

Some accident victims may experience emotional trauma or post-traumatic stress after an accident. Don't hesitate to seek counseling or support if you struggle to cope with the emotional aftermath.

Remember that every accident is unique, and the steps you must take may vary based on the circumstances. Prioritizing safety, gathering information, and seeking professional guidance when necessary are crucial in handling a car accident effectively and responsibly.

Injured in a Texas vehicle accident? Call Shaw at (877) 440-6937.

The Accident Wasn't My Fault!

Texas is an at-fault state. The person who caused the accident is responsible for covering the cost.

Drivers are required to carry liability insurance coverage, with minimums determined by the state. The at-fault driver's liability insurance should cover the damages to the other party (you) up to the policy limits.

Getting to the bottom of your accident can vary and may involve the police accident report, witness statements, photographic evidence, and other factors.

Insurance adjusters and, if necessary, the court will evaluate the evidence to establish who was negligent or at fault for the accident. But establishing fault can get complicated.

Insurance companies aren't exactly known for wanting to pay out claims. Victims of car accidents are often left struggling with disputed liability; the insurance adjuster might suggest that claimants are lying about their injuries, use unnecessary delay strategies, or use other common tactics designed to diminish the value of their claims.

Fortunately, victims of traffic accident injuries in Texas have the right to secure legal representation in their accident claims.

You don't have to fight alone. Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 for a powerful ally in the fight for justice.

Injured in a Texas Vehicle Accident? Call Shaw!

If you were injured in a traffic accident in San Antonio, don't hesitate to seek legal help - call Shaw personal injury attorneys today to receive fair compensation.

For over 34 years, Carabin Shaw has provided legal services to those injured in accidents across Texas. We're a trusted name in San Antonio because we put our clients first.

If you received catastrophic injuries in a motor vehicle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:

  • Ambulance costs
  • ER bills
  • Medical treatment
  • Surgeries
  • Pain and suffering
  • Missed work
  • Lost wages
  • Loss of earning capacity
  • Trauma / PTSD
  • Property damage
  • Wrongful death
  • And more

We'll help you find out if you have a case for free.

Call Shaw's personal injury lawyers in San Antonio for legal representation at 800-862-1260 today to schedule your free consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis. There are no fees or obligations until we win your car accident case - just expert legal advice. We look forward to serving you.

Frequently Asked Questions About San Antonio Car Accidents

Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident in San Antonio?

You may not need a lawyer for every minor crash, especially if there are no injuries and little property damage. However, if you were hurt, fault is disputed, the insurance company is delaying or denying your claim, or the crash involved serious damages, speaking with an attorney can help protect your rights. Carabin Shaw's internal FAQ page explains when a lawyer may be helpful after a crash: Do You Need a Lawyer for a Car Accident?

What Are My Rights After a Serious Car Accident in San Antonio?

After a serious crash, you may have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party, obtain evidence, hire an attorney, refuse to speak with the other driver's insurance company, and pursue damages for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses. For more detail, see Carabin Shaw's page on FAQs After a Serious Car Accident in San Antonio, Texas.

What Compensation Can I Recover After a San Antonio Car Accident?

Depending on the facts of your case, compensation may cover medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life, and other damages. Carabin Shaw discusses recoverable damages in more detail here: FAQs After a Serious Car Accident in San Antonio, Texas.

How Much Is My Car Accident Case Worth?

The value of a car accident case depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, medical treatment, future medical needs, lost wages, available insurance coverage, liability, and whether the at-fault driver was drunk or reckless. Carabin Shaw explains these valuation factors here: How Much Is My Case Worth?.

What if I Was Partly at Fault for the Accident?

Texas uses a comparative negligence system. If you are found partly responsible, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are more than 50% at fault, you may not be able to recover compensation. Carabin Shaw explains this issue here: What Is Comparative Negligence in Texas?.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Carabin Shaw Car Accident Attorney?

Carabin Shaw represents injured clients on a contingency-fee basis, which means clients do not pay attorney's fees unless the firm wins the case and obtains a recovery. Understanding Contingent Fee Contracts.

Should I Talk to the Insurance Company After a Car Accident?

You should be careful before giving statements to an insurance company, especially the other driver's insurer. Insurance adjusters may use your statements to dispute fault, minimize your injuries, or reduce the value of your claim. Carabin Shaw's FAQ page addresses insurance and claim questions here: Frequently Asked Questions.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident?

After a crash, seek medical attention, call the police, document the scene, exchange information, gather witness contact details, report the crash to your insurer, and avoid admitting fault. Carabin Shaw provides additional post-accident guidance here: Frequently Asked Questions.

Can I Recover Compensation for Car Wreck Injuries and Property Damage?

Yes. A car accident claim may cover both injury-related damages and property damage, such as vehicle repairs, towing expenses, rental car costs, medical bills, lost wages, and other losses. Carabin Shaw has a dedicated page on this issue: Car Wreck Injuries and Property Damage.

What if the Accident Was Caused by a Drunk Driver?

If you were injured by an intoxicated driver, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In some cases, other parties may also be investigated, such as a bar, restaurant, or other entity that contributed to the crash. Carabin Shaw explains drunk-driving accident claims here: Injured by an Intoxicated or Drunk Driver in Texas and Need an Attorney?.

What if the Crash Was Caused by Texting or Distracted Driving?

A distracted driver may be liable if texting, phone use, or another distraction caused or contributed to the crash. Evidence such as phone records, witness statements, crash reports, and vehicle data may help prove the claim. Carabin Shaw has an internal page on this topic: Texting and Driving Injuries.

What if Road Rage or Aggressive Driving Caused My Accident?

Aggressive driving and road rage can involve speeding, tailgating, unsafe lane changes, cutting off other drivers, threats, or other dangerous conduct. If road rage or aggressive driving caused your injuries, an attorney can review the crash report, witness statements, and other evidence to determine liability. Carabin Shaw discusses this issue here: Aggressive Driving and Road Rage.

How Long Does a Car Accident Settlement Take?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries, how long medical treatment takes, whether fault is disputed, the insurance company's cooperation, and whether a lawsuit becomes necessary. Carabin Shaw's FAQ page discusses settlement timing here: How Long Does It Take to Get a Car Accident Settlement?.

Will I Have to Go to Court for My Car Accident Case?

Many car accident claims settle before trial, but some cases require litigation if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer or disputes liability, injuries, or damages. Carabin Shaw addresses court and settlement questions here: Frequently Asked Questions.

What if a Loved One Was Killed in a San Antonio Car Accident?

If a family member died because of another driver's negligence, certain surviving family members may have the right to bring a wrongful death claim. These cases can involve funeral expenses, lost financial support, loss of companionship, and other damages. Can I Sue If a Family Member Was Killed in an Accident?

Texas Injury Lawyers Blog - Automobile Accidents
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