Driver Evading Traffic Stop Crashes Into Pickup Truck, 4 Hospitalized

According to a KSAT News report, a family was hospitalized after a driver fleeing a traffic stop crashed into their pickup.

Police reported the accident happened at around 9:30 a.m. Friday, June 6th, on the Southwest Loop 410 access road between State Highway 151 and Marbach Road. DPS troopers reported trying to conduct a traffic stop on Loop 410 near Medina Base Road when the driver, 23-year-old Matthew Daniel Garcia, fled the scene.

While attempting to exit Loop 410 at Exit 9A near Marbach Road, Garcia crashed into a pickup truck with three occupants inside. All four were injured—Garcia’s vehicle was flipped over on the side of the road. A DPS vehicle was also involved, but the troopers were released from the hospital.

Garcia was charged with evading arrest and was taken to the hospital. The three occupants of the pickup—a man, a woman, and a child—were taken to the hospital in unknown condition. No other injuries were reported.

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Did You Know?

2,212 accidents in Texas last year were caused by vehicles evading or fleeing police.

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Traffic Stop Best Practices: What to Do If You’re Pulled Over in Texas

Getting pulled over is stressful—even for the most experienced drivers.

Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, the anxiety of seeing flashing lights in your rearview mirror can lead to nervous mistakes. Unfortunately, what you say or do during a stop can affect the outcome—and even your legal options if things go wrong.

Here’s how to protect yourself during a Texas traffic stop.

What to Do When You’re Pulled Over

1. Slow Down and Pull Over Safely
Move to the right side of the road and stop as soon as it’s safe. Use your blinker or hazard lights to signal your intent. If the officer directs you to a different location, follow their lead calmly.

2. Park, Turn Off the Engine, and Engage the Parking Brake
Turn off your car and keep your hazard lights on. Stay inside unless the officer instructs otherwise.

3. Keep Your Hands Visible and Stay Still
Place your hands on the steering wheel. If it’s dark, turn on your interior lights. Avoid rummaging through your belongings.

4. Roll Down the Window
Lower your window enough to communicate clearly. The officer may approach from either the driver or passenger side.

5. Be Respectful and Follow Instructions
Stay calm and polite. Don’t argue. If you need to reach for your license or insurance, let the officer know where it is first and ask permission to retrieve it.

6. Drive Away Safely
Once you’re cleared to leave, use your turn signal and re-enter traffic cautiously.

What Officers Can Legally Do During a Stop

During a lawful traffic stop, officers are allowed to:

• Ask you to step out of your vehicle

• Temporarily take possession of a firearm

• Ask where you’re going and where you came from

• Search your vehicle without a warrant if they see contraband in plain sight or have probable cause

What to Say (and What Not to Say)

If asked, “Do you know why I pulled you over?”
Say: “Can you please tell me why I was pulled over?”
Avoid guessing or saying no—your response could be used as an admission.

If asked about weapons:
Say: “Yes, officer. I have a (type of weapon) in my (location). How would you like me to proceed?”

You are not legally required to disclose that you have a firearm in your vehicle during a traffic stop unless you are asked. However, it is in your best interest to inform the officer as soon as possible to prevent any misunderstandings.

Injured in a Police Chase? Call Shaw.

If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle fleeing police or struck during a law enforcement pursuit, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Ambulance and ER Costs

• Ongoing Medical Treatment

• Pain and Suffering

• Lost Wages

• Property Damage

• And More

Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio. No fees. No obligations. Just the trusted legal advice you need.

We look forward to serving you.

 

¹KSAT Report

²TxDOT Crash Contributing Factors