Speeding greatly increases your risk of run-off-the-road accidents.
High-Speed Single-Vehicle Crash Left Driver Dead, Car in Flames on the South Side
According to a News4SanAntonio report, a man is dead after crashing an SUV into a utility pole.¹
Police reported the accident happened at around 6 a.m. Monday, September 1st, on Moursund Boulevard near Ashley Road on the South Side. A black SUV veered off the road and up an embankment before crashing into a utility pole at high speeds. The SUV burst into flames as a result of the impact, preventing bystanders from rescuing the driver, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police say identifying the man will be difficult, as damage to the interior of the vehicle from the fire was extensive. Investigators also stated that one utility pole was split clean through and was hanging by its wires, and another was charred at the base and considered unstable due to the impact of the vehicle.
Did You Know?
Single-vehicle, run-off-the-road crashes resulted in 1,353 deaths in Texas in 2024 — accounting for 32.6% of all motor vehicle traffic deaths.²
Most Common Causes of Single-Vehicle Accidents — and How to Avoid Them
While multi-car collisions often grab attention, single-vehicle accidents are more common than many drivers realize. These crashes make up nearly a third of traffic fatalities in Texas every year. The good news: most are preventable.
Speeding and Loss of Control
Excessive speed is one of the leading causes of run-off-the-road crashes. The faster you go, the less reaction time you have — and the more severe the impact if you hit a fixed object.
Prevention Tip: Always slow down on curves, uneven roads, or in poor weather.
Distracted Driving
Looking at your phone, adjusting GPS, or even talking to passengers can pull your focus from the road long enough to cause a deadly mistake.
Prevention Tip: Keep your attention on the road. If you need to check something, pull over safely first.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and slow reaction times, increasing the risk of veering off the road.
Prevention Tip: Never drive impaired. Choose a designated driver, rideshare, or public transportation instead.
Fatigue
Drowsy driving can be just as dangerous as alcohol. Falling asleep, even briefly, can cause you to leave the roadway.
Prevention Tip: Rest before driving. On long trips, switch drivers or take breaks every 2 hours.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, slick pavement, or roadside debris can lead to a sudden loss of control.
Prevention Tip: Stay alert and reduce your speed in bad weather or on poorly maintained roads.
Is the Driver Always at Fault in a Single-Vehicle Accident?
Not necessarily. Many assume single-car crashes are always the driver’s fault, but other factors may be to blame. In Texas, liability can extend to:
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Vehicle Manufacturers — if a defect, such as brake failure, steering problems, or faulty airbags, contributed to the crash.
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Government Entities — if poor road design, inadequate lighting, or neglected maintenance played a role.
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Bars or Restaurants — if alcohol was overserved to a driver who later caused a crash.
Every case is unique, which is why it’s important to have an attorney review the circumstances.
Injured in a Single-Vehicle Accident? Call Shaw.
If you or a loved one was injured in a single-vehicle accident that wasn’t your fault anywhere in Texas, you may be entitled to compensation for:
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Ambulance Costs
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ER Treatment
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Pain and Suffering
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Trauma/PTSD
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Missed Work
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Property Damage
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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. No fees, no obligations — just the expert legal advice you need when you need it the most.
Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for more than 32 years because we put our clients first.
We look forward to serving you.