Texas Accident & Injury News
Rear-end accidents are often due to a driver following too closely.
Several Injured, One Dead in a Rear-end Collision on the Northwest Side
According to a KSAT News report, a tragic rear-end collision left one dead and several others severely injured yesterday afternoon.
Police reported the accident happened at around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, May 27th, on the Interstate 10 access road near Wurzbach on the Northwest Side. A Ford Transit crashed into the back of a Toyota Highlander for unknown reasons along the I-10 access road. As a result, both vehicles eventually collided with a concrete wall. The Ford caught on fire, trapping the male driver inside, who was later pronounced dead at the scene by SAFD. An unknown number of occupants in the Toyota were taken to the hospital with severe injuries, but were in stable condition. No other information was immediately available.
Did You Know?
In Texas in 2024, 21,048 accidents were caused by a driver following too closely, according to TxDOT data.
How to Avoid Being Rear-Ended — And What to Do If It Happens
Daily commutes in San Antonio are full of frustrations—heavy traffic, road construction, and reckless drivers. Unfortunately, that combination often leads to rear-end collisions, one of the most common types of crashes in Texas.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, tens of thousands of accidents each year are caused by simple driver errors, many of which result in rear-end crashes:
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Driver Inattention: 81,101 crashes
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Following Too Closely: 21,048 crashes
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Failure to Control Speed: 131,978 crashes
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Failure to Stop at the Proper Place: 3,182 crashes
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Road Rage: 1,713 crashes
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Speeding: 2,405 crashes
While you can’t control how others drive, you can reduce your risk of being rear-ended by driving defensively.
3 Defensive Driving Tips to Prevent Being Rear-Ended
1. Slow Gradually
Keep an eye on traffic ahead and start slowing down early. This gives drivers behind you more time to react—especially if they’re following too closely.
2. Use Your Mirrors and Signal Early
Check your rear-view mirror every 5 to 8 seconds, especially when preparing to slow down or stop. Signaling your turn well in advance may grab the attention of a distracted driver behind you and give them time to adjust.
3. Never Brake-Check Tailgaters
Tempting as it may be, brake-checking is dangerous. It escalates tension, puts both you and the other driver at risk, and could lead to serious injury. If someone is tailgating you, safely move to the right and let them pass.
What to Do If You’re Rear-Ended by a Reckless Driver
Even if you drive perfectly, accidents can still happen. Here’s what to do if you’re hit from behind:
1. Call 9-1-1 Immediately
You are legally required to call the police if anyone is injured in an accident, but you should anyway. An official accident report is a critical piece of evidence for insurance claims and legal action.
2. Document the Scene
Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, license plates, the location of the crash, and any visible injuries.
3. Exchange Information
Collect the other driver’s name, contact info, license plate number, and insurance details.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Let EMS evaluate you at the scene. Even if you feel fine, get checked out—adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries don’t show up right away.
5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance
Do this as soon as possible. Include all documentation, including the police report, photos, and medical evaluations.
Speak with a Lawyer Before Accepting a Settlement
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly—and for less than your case is worth. Before signing anything, consult with an experienced injury lawyer. You may be entitled to more than what you’re being offered.
Injured in a Rear-end Collision? Call Shaw!
If you or a loved one were injured in a rear-end collision that wasn’t your fault in San Antonio, you could be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Ambulance Costs,
- ER Treatment,
- Surgeries,
- Medical Bills,
- Pain and Suffering,
- Property Damage,
- Missed Work,
- And More.
We’ll help you find out if you have a case for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio. There are no fees or obligations attached—just the expert legal advice you need. Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio for over 32 years because we put our clients first.
We look forward to serving you.