Nighttime driving brings its own set of challenges.
SUV Rear-Ends 18-Wheeler, Killing Driver and Critically Injuring Passengers
A fatal early-morning crash shut down part of Wetmore Road on San Antonio’s Northeast Side Thursday after a minivan slammed into the back of an 18-wheeler, according to a report from News4SanAntonio.¹
Police say the crash happened around 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, January 22, near Wetmore Road and Loop 410, not far from the airport. A 58-year-old man was driving with four passengers when his vehicle crashed into the rear of a commercial truck.
The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. All four passengers were injured, and at least three were reported to be in critical condition. No other vehicles were involved, and investigators are still working to determine what caused the crash.
Did You Know?
In 2024, 21,048 crashes across Texas were caused by drivers following too closely, according to data from the Texas Department of Transportation.²
When Do Most Fatal Accidents Happen During the Winter Months?
Texas winters may not bring snow and ice very often, but they are still one of the most dangerous times of year to drive. Changes in daylight, traffic patterns, and driver behavior all contribute to an increase in serious and fatal crashes during the winter months.
Understanding when and why these crashes happen can help drivers reduce their risk and make safer decisions on the road.
Early Morning Hours Are Especially Dangerous
Many fatal winter crashes happen early in the morning, often between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. This is when drivers are commuting to work, heading to school, or traveling to the airport.
Early morning winter driving is particularly risky because it’s often still dark or just beginning to get light. Drivers may be tired, distracted, or rushing, and visibility can be reduced by fog, glare, or damp road conditions from overnight moisture. Fatigue and low visibility make it harder to judge distance and react in time—especially at higher speeds.
Following Too Closely Is a Common Factor
Rear-end crashes are especially common during the winter months. Drivers often underestimate how much space they need to stop safely, particularly when traffic slows suddenly.
Following too closely becomes even more dangerous in winter because braking distances increase and reaction times decrease. This risk is magnified when large commercial vehicles are involved. Trucks take longer to stop, and a rear-end collision with an 18-wheeler can be catastrophic—even at moderate speeds.
Winter Traffic Patterns Increase Crash Risk
Winter also brings changes in traffic patterns. Holiday travel, altered work schedules, and increased airport traffic all contribute to congestion on major roadways.
More vehicles on the road means more stop-and-go traffic, sudden slowdowns, and a higher risk of rear-end or chain-reaction crashes. Roads like Wetmore Road and Loop 410 often see increased risk during peak morning hours.
Weather Still Matters in Texas Winters
Even without snow or ice, winter weather in Texas can be dangerous. Fog, light rain, and cooler temperatures can reduce visibility and traction, especially after long dry periods.
Many drivers underestimate these conditions and fail to adjust their driving habits. Slowing down and increasing following distance during foggy mornings or light rain can make a critical difference.
How Drivers Can Reduce Winter Crash Risks
Simple precautions can help lower the risk of serious accidents during winter driving:
-
Increasing following distance
-
Slowing down in low-visibility conditions
-
Staying focused and avoiding distractions
-
Being especially cautious during early morning drives
-
Giving large trucks extra space
Giving yourself more time and room to react can help prevent deadly outcomes.
What to Do After a Serious Winter Crash
If you or a loved one is injured in a serious winter accident, it’s important to act quickly. Seeking medical care right away should always come first, even if injuries are not immediately obvious.
Documenting the crash, obtaining the police report, and avoiding early conversations with insurance companies without guidance can help protect your rights. Serious crashes often lead to long-term injuries, medical expenses, and significant financial stress for families.
Injured or Lost a Loved One in a Serious Car Accident? Call Shaw.
Losing a loved one or suffering serious injuries in a car accident can turn life upside down in an instant. If you or your family were affected by a fatal or serious car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for things like:
- Medical expenses or funeral costs,
- Pain and suffering,
- Ongoing medical care,
- Lost income or future financial support,
- And more.
We’ll help you find out for free.
Call Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to speak with an experienced car accident lawyer in San Antonio. There are no fees, no obligations, and no pressure—just straightforward legal guidance when you need it most.
We look forward to serving you.