A serious crash can turn a normal day upside down in an instant. Whether the collision happened on Loop 410, I-10, or one of San Antonio’s busy intersections, the aftermath often feels like chaos. You may be trying to manage physical pain, talk to your insurance company, keep up with missed work, and figure out how to get your car repaired—all while dealing with uncertainty about what comes next. These challenges affect every part of your life, from your health to your finances to your peace of mind.
You do not have to face those challenges alone. If another driver’s careless actions caused your crash, Texas law gives you the right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Keep reading to learn how the type of crash affects your case, what kinds of injuries might lead to a claim, and how Patterson Law Group helps San Antonio families protect their rights and move forward with confidence.
The Legal Help You Deserve From a Team That Puts You First
At Patterson Law Group, we take a different approach to personal injury cases. Our firm was built on a simple but powerful belief: people who have been hurt deserve more than case numbers, template responses, or rushed conversations. They deserve personal attention, consistent communication, and legal strategies built around their needs, not around law firm quotas.
We intentionally take fewer cases so we can focus more fully on each client. That gives us the time and flexibility to answer questions, build strong claims, and adapt our strategy to reflect the unique impact your crash has had on your life. We also understand San Antonio courts, traffic conditions, and medical providers, which allows us to move cases forward efficiently and with local insight. Whether your case involves physical injuries, emotional trauma, or complex insurance issues, we are ready to help.
One-on-One Legal Support, Every Step of the Way
From your very first call, you will speak directly with someone who listens to your story and provides honest guidance. You will not be passed from department to department or left wondering when someone will call you back. Our attorneys work closely with every client and remain involved throughout the case, not just at the beginning or the end.
This consistent access helps us learn what really matters to you. Some clients are focused on medical costs. Others need help replacing a vehicle, organizing paperwork, or managing time off from work. Whatever your concerns are, we work to address them. Our job is to guide you through this process and help you feel supported, heard, and protected from day one.
Clear Answers, Fast Updates, No Guesswork
You should never feel unsure about where your case stands. That is why we prioritize transparency and responsiveness in every case we take. We explain each step in plain language, provide updates regularly, and make ourselves available to answer your questions without delay.
We also use secure technology to organize documents, track deadlines, and make sure nothing is missed. This allows you to stay focused on your recovery without having to worry about managing paperwork or chasing down information. When something changes in your case, you will hear about it directly from us. Quickly and clearly.
Deeply Connected to the San Antonio Community
We are proud to serve clients across Bexar County and throughout San Antonio. We know the roads where crashes happen most often, from the tight turns near downtown to the high-speed interchanges on I-10 and I-35. We also know the hospitals, clinics, and specialists that treat local accident victims. This local knowledge allows us to move cases forward without delay and advocate more effectively in front of San Antonio judges and insurance carriers.
We are not just familiar with San Antonio, we are committed to the people who live here because they’re our neighbors, family, and friends. Our firm values honesty, communication, and real connection. That includes doing everything we can to help our neighbors get the care, support, and compensation they deserve.
Rear-End, T-Bone, or Head-On: Why the Type of Crash Matters
Not all car accidents unfold the same way. The way a crash occurs has a direct impact on who may be at fault, what kinds of injuries result, and how your claim should be documented and presented. Understanding the specific type of crash you experienced helps clarify what steps to take next and how your legal team will build your case.
Rear-End Collisions in High-Traffic Zones
These crashes often happen in heavy stop-and-go traffic along Loop 410 or near major retail centers. When a driver fails to leave enough space or is distracted at the wheel, they may not stop in time to avoid hitting the vehicle in front of them. Rear-end collisions frequently cause soft tissue injuries like whiplash, as well as back and shoulder pain. Even at lower speeds, these injuries can interfere with sleep, work, and daily activity.
Intersection Crashes Near Downtown or Medical Centers
Busy intersections around downtown San Antonio, hospitals, and universities create frequent opportunities for serious side-impact collisions. When drivers ignore red lights, turn without yielding, or misjudge traffic signals, they often strike another vehicle from the side. These crashes tend to cause broken bones, concussions, or spine and hip injuries due to the angle and force of impact.
Head-On Collisions on Rural Bexar County Roads
Two-lane roads with no barriers separating traffic are common in rural parts of Bexar County. When a driver veers into oncoming lanes—often due to distraction, fatigue, or risky passing attempts—the results can be devastating. Head-on collisions typically happen at higher speeds and often lead to severe injuries or loss of life.
Multi-Vehicle Crashes on I-35 or I-10
High-speed interstates like I-35 and I-10 are frequent sites of multi-vehicle pileups, especially during construction or inclement weather. When a single driver brakes too late or loses control, it can cause a chain reaction that involves multiple vehicles. These cases are often more complex, with liability spread among several drivers. Sorting through the cause of each impact requires in-depth investigation and sometimes expert accident reconstruction.
Sideswipes in Construction Zones
Construction zones often feature narrowed lanes, unclear signage, and sudden merging areas. These conditions make sideswipe collisions more likely. While they may seem minor at first, sideswipes can cause serious vehicle damage and injuries that grow worse over time, such as neck strain or shoulder trauma from the force of impact.
Understanding how your crash happened helps your legal team identify who is responsible, what evidence to collect, and how to respond to the tactics insurers may use. At Patterson Law Group, we use every available detail—from road design and traffic flow to eyewitness accounts and physical damage—to build a case that reflects what really occurred.
Common Car Accident Injuries We See in San Antonio
Every car accident is different, but the injuries we see most often share one thing in common: they affect people’s lives in real, lasting ways. Some symptoms show up immediately. Others take time to develop. Either way, early medical care and documentation are essential to protecting your health and your legal rights.
These are some of the most common crash-related injuries we see among clients in San Antonio:
- Whiplash and soft tissue damage. The sudden motion of a crash can stretch or tear muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Whiplash affects the neck and shoulders and may cause headaches, limited motion, and long-term discomfort. These injuries are often overlooked at first but can linger for months.
- Herniated discs and spinal injuries. The spine is vulnerable in any crash, especially in rear-end or side-impact collisions. Herniated discs, pinched nerves, and spinal compression can cause pain, numbness, and loss of mobility. In more serious cases, surgery or long-term therapy may be needed.
- Brain injuries and concussions. Even without direct impact, the brain can be injured by a sudden jolt. Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries may cause confusion, fatigue, sensitivity to light or sound, and memory problems. These symptoms may not appear right away but can worsen without treatment.
- Broken bones and joint trauma. Fractures to the ribs, arms, legs, or face are common in high-impact crashes. Joint injuries, such as dislocations or torn ligaments, can affect your ability to walk, drive, or perform basic tasks. Recovery often requires casting, physical therapy, or surgery.
- PTSD and driving anxiety. Many crash victims struggle with emotional symptoms after a traumatic event. You may avoid driving, experience panic in traffic, or suffer from sleep disruption, flashbacks, or depression. These symptoms are valid and deserve attention, just like physical injuries.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or even if you feel fine initially, it is important to see a doctor. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, treatment, lost wages, and emotional harm, but only if those issues are properly diagnosed and documented. Our legal team works closely with you and your care providers to make sure nothing gets missed and that your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries.
Who Is Liable in a Texas Car Accident?
In Texas, determining who is responsible for a car accident plays a critical role in whether compensation is awarded and how much. Although the concept of fault may sound straightforward, proving liability requires a careful and evidence-based approach.
Fault Determines Financial Responsibility
Texas is a fault-based state. This means the driver who caused the crash is legally responsible for covering the resulting damages. These may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. However, insurers rarely accept fault without question. They often attempt to shift blame or downplay their driver’s role in the crash.
Understanding how fault works in Texas helps you protect your claim. If someone else’s negligence contributed to the crash, you have the right to seek compensation, but it’s important to know how the law may affect the final amount you receive.
How Comparative Fault Works in Texas
Texas follows a system called modified comparative fault. Under this rule, you can still recover compensation if you were partly at fault for the crash, but only if your share of responsibility is 50 percent or less. If a court finds you were 30 percent at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. However, if you are found to be more than 50 percent responsible, you may not be eligible to recover damages.
This legal structure makes accurate fault determination essential. Insurance companies may try to assign blame in ways that benefit them financially, even if those conclusions do not reflect what actually happened.
Proving Liability Requires Strong Evidence
Assigning fault is not just about statements or opinions. It requires detailed documentation and a clear timeline. Our legal team gathers and analyzes:
- Police reports that describe the scene and note any traffic violations
- Photos of the crash, vehicle damage, and roadway conditions
- Eyewitness accounts that confirm what drivers were doing before the impact
- Medical records that connect your injuries to the crash
- Expert analysis when additional support is needed, especially in multi-vehicle or disputed cases
We take this work seriously. Strong evidence can make the difference between a denied claim and a full financial recovery.
Why Early Legal Help Strengthens Your Case
Insurance companies know how to cast doubt on liability. They may argue that their driver acted reasonably or that your actions contributed more than they did. Without legal representation, it can be difficult to respond to these claims effectively.
Our firm begins building your case as soon as we are hired. We preserve key evidence, speak with witnesses while their memories are still fresh, and develop a strategy based on the facts. Even if the insurance company challenges fault, we are ready with clear documentation and legal arguments that reflect what really happened.
Getting legal support early helps you stay ahead of these tactics and ensures your side of the story is fully represented. If liability is disputed, we are prepared to advocate for you every step of the way.
How Insurance Companies Try To Undervalue Claims
Insurance companies work hard to protect their bottom line. Even if the adjuster sounds friendly or concerned, their job is to reduce how much the company pays out. That means they often rely on tactics designed to minimize your injuries, question your credibility, or rush you into accepting less than your claim is worth.
These are some of the most common strategies we see—and how we respond to them.
Quick Settlement Offers
Soon after the crash, you may receive a settlement offer. It might seem helpful, especially if you’re dealing with medical bills or vehicle repairs. But these early offers are usually based on limited information and often leave out important costs like future treatment or missed work. Once you accept, you may give up the right to recover anything more.
Our team reviews all offers carefully and helps you understand whether they cover your full losses. If they don’t, we negotiate for a better outcome that reflects the long-term effects of your injury.
Requesting Recorded Statements
Adjusters often ask for a recorded statement. They may say it’s required or that it will speed up your claim. In reality, they are looking for information that can be used to deny or reduce what you receive. Something as simple as “I’m feeling okay” can be taken out of context and used to argue that your injuries aren’t serious.
You are not required to provide a recorded statement. We speak to the insurance company on your behalf so you can avoid unnecessary risk and focus on recovery.
Disputing Injury Severity
Insurers frequently question how badly someone was hurt. They may claim your injuries were pre-existing, that your treatment was excessive, or that your recovery should have happened sooner. They may even monitor your social media for posts that contradict your claim.
We counter these tactics with documentation. We gather medical records, expert opinions, and statements from your care providers to show the full extent of your injuries and how they are affecting your life.
Blaming the Victim
Sometimes, insurers argue that you were partly or fully responsible for the crash. They might point to weather conditions, traffic behavior, or past medical issues. If they succeed in assigning more than 50 percent of the blame to you, you may lose your right to compensation altogether.
Our team pushes back with evidence. We examine every detail of your case and challenge unfounded claims that attempt to shift liability unfairly.
Delaying Communication
One of the most frustrating tactics is simply ignoring your calls, losing your paperwork, or dragging out the process. These delays are often intentional and designed to wear you down. The goal is to get you to settle just to move on—even if the amount is less than what you deserve.
We take over communication, meet every deadline, and keep the pressure on until your claim is handled properly. You do not need to fight for attention. We do that for you.
Should You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance Company?
After a crash, you may get a call from the other driver’s insurance company. They may ask for a statement or offer to start processing your claim. While this might sound like the next logical step, it can put your case at risk.
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s financial interests. They may ask questions in ways that lead you to admit fault or minimize your injuries—sometimes without you even realizing it. These recorded calls often become part of the insurance file and can be used to limit what you recover later.
You are not required to speak with the other driver’s insurance company. In fact, it’s almost always better to let your attorney handle that communication for you. When we take your case, we manage those conversations, ensure nothing is said out of context, and protect you from tactics designed to weaken your claim.
A short conversation with the wrong person can cost you more than you expect. We help you avoid that mistake and keep the focus on your recovery—not on defending your words.
What To Do After a Car Accident in San Antonio
The moments after a car crash are often confusing and overwhelming. You may be hurt, worried about your passengers, or unsure what to do next. The steps you take in the hours and days after a collision can affect both your health and your legal options. Here’s what we recommend if you’ve just been in an accident in San Antonio:
- Get checked by a doctor—even if symptoms are mild. Some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Seeing a medical professional documents your condition and helps catch hidden problems early.
- Report the accident to SAPD and request a copy of the report. Police reports provide important details that can support your case. Make sure an officer is called to the scene and follow up to request your report.
- Take photos and gather witness information. If it’s safe, take pictures of the vehicles, the road, visible injuries, and anything else relevant. If anyone saw what happened, ask for their name and contact information.
- Keep all receipts and missed work documentation. Save records of medical visits, repair bills, and lost wages. These documents help calculate how the crash has affected you financially.
- Do not post accident details on social media. Even harmless posts can be misinterpreted or used against you. It’s best to stay quiet online until your case is resolved.
- Reach out to a San Antonio car accident attorney. The earlier you speak with a lawyer, the more protection you have. Legal support helps you avoid common mistakes and ensures that your claim starts on the right track.
Whether you’re managing injuries, dealing with insurance companies, or just trying to understand your rights, we’re here to help. Patterson Law Group guides San Antonio crash victims through every step of the legal process with compassion, clarity, and personalized care.
Who Pays for What After an Accident in San Antonio?
After a collision in San Antonio, one of the first questions people ask is who will cover the expenses that follow. Texas operates under a fault-based insurance system, meaning the driver responsible for causing the accident—and their insurance provider—are typically liable for the resulting damages. Understanding how each type of coverage applies can make a significant difference in protecting your financial recovery.
Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability
All Texas drivers are required to carry liability insurance, which includes two key parts: bodily injury coverage and property damage coverage. Bodily injury coverage helps pay for medical care, lost wages, and other harm suffered by the other party. Property damage coverage pays to repair or replace the other vehicle and any damaged structures such as guardrails, fences, or buildings.
When another driver’s negligence causes the crash, their liability policy is often the first resource we pursue in seeking compensation for your losses.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
Personal injury protection, commonly known as PIP, is coverage that pays for your own medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who caused the accident. Texas law requires insurers to offer PIP, though drivers may decline it in writing. If you have PIP on your policy, we can help you file a claim early to cover medical costs or income loss while your case is ongoing.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If the at-fault driver is uninsured or lacks sufficient coverage to pay for your damages, uninsured or underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can step in to fill the gap. Although optional, this protection is crucial in Texas, where uninsured driving is still common. UM/UIM coverage can also apply in hit-and-run situations when the responsible driver cannot be identified. We carefully review your policy and handle the claims process to ensure you recover every dollar available.
Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Lost Income
Even with insurance coverage, you may still face out-of-pocket costs such as co-pays, deductibles, and prescriptions. Injuries can also cause missed work or reduced earning capacity. We work with you to document these financial impacts and include them in the final settlement demand. For clients facing long-term effects, we collaborate with economic experts to estimate future losses and secure fair compensation.
Understanding how these insurance options interact allows us to create a complete recovery strategy. We review every available policy, negotiate with insurers, and make sure you are not left paying for someone else’s mistake after an accident in San Antonio.
How Much Is Your Car Accident Claim Worth?
Every car accident is different, and so is every injury claim. The total value of your case depends on how the crash affected your health, your income, your property, and your ability to function day to day. It also depends on the quality of the documentation you provide, the clarity of your medical records, and how well your legal team can present the facts.
Texas law allows crash victims to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Below are some of the most common categories:
- Medical expenses (past, current, future). This includes emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, follow-up appointments, physical therapy, and any future treatment recommended by your doctor. These costs are usually documented with hospital bills, medical records, and statements from your care providers.
- Lost income and reduced earning potential. If your injuries kept you from working or caused you to miss hours, your claim can include compensation for that lost time. If your injuries make it difficult to return to the same job—or reduce your future earning capacity—we account for that as well.
- Pain and suffering. Crash injuries often result in pain that limits movement, disrupts sleep, and interferes with daily activities. These physical effects are real, even though they are harder to quantify. We help document how the pain has changed your routine, and how it continues to affect your life.
- Emotional and psychological trauma. Many crash victims develop anxiety, depression, or stress-related symptoms. These mental health challenges may require therapy, medication, or time away from work. Your claim can include compensation for the emotional burden you carry as a result of the crash.
- Property damage and car repairs. If your vehicle was damaged or totaled in the crash, you may be entitled to repairs, replacement, rental car costs, and towing expenses. These are typically based on repair estimates, receipts, and vehicle appraisals.
Some clients experience harm in all of these areas. Others may only have one or two primary categories of loss. Our role is to identify every impact, gather supporting evidence, and make sure nothing is overlooked when your case is valued. We also advise you on when to settle and when to hold out for a better offer, always with your goals in mind.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations in Texas
Texas law sets a two-year deadline for filing a personal injury claim. This period usually begins on the date of the crash. If you do not settle your case or file a lawsuit within this window, you may lose your right to seek compensation, even if your case is otherwise valid.
This deadline is known as the statute of limitations. It applies to most car accident claims, including those involving injuries, property damage, and wrongful death. There are some exceptions, such as cases involving minors or claims against government entities, but these are rare and often complex.
Waiting to take action can cause more than just legal problems. It can also make your case harder to prove. Over time, physical evidence may disappear, witnesses may move or forget details, and medical records may become harder to collect. Insurance companies often benefit from this delay and may use it to question your credibility or reduce their settlement offers.
You do not need to be certain that you want to file a claim before speaking to a lawyer. A free consultation can help you understand your options and avoid missing important deadlines. We encourage clients to reach out early, even if they are unsure. Having the right information can make all the difference when deciding what to do next.
We Stand Beside You Throughout the Legal Process
Filing a car accident claim may seem overwhelming, especially if you have never worked with a lawyer before. Our goal is to make that process as simple and supportive as possible. We walk with you from the first phone call through the final resolution—whether that involves negotiation, mediation, or a court case.
The Consultation
Your first step is a free, no-pressure consultation. During this conversation, we learn about the crash, ask questions about your injuries, and explain what Texas law says about your situation. If we believe we can help, we’ll offer to take your case and explain exactly what that looks like. If not, we’ll provide guidance on what next steps might be available.
The Investigation
Once you choose to work with us, we begin gathering evidence. That includes police reports, medical records, photographs, repair estimates, witness statements, and anything else that may help support your case. We also coordinate with your medical providers and assist with managing your care documentation.
The Negotiation
After the investigation is complete, we submit your claim to the insurance company and begin negotiations. Our team communicates directly with adjusters, evaluates offers, and keeps you updated at every stage. We help you understand the pros and cons of each offer so that you can make informed choices without pressure.
The Resolution
Most cases settle before reaching trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, we are prepared to file a lawsuit. We handle all aspects of litigation and represent you in court with a strategy built on the facts of your case. We never recommend unnecessary lawsuits, but we do not hesitate to take that step when needed to pursue the full value of your claim.
Throughout the process, you can expect clear communication, consistent updates, and a team that works around your schedule, not the other way around. You will never be left wondering what is happening with your case.
Claim the Closure You Deserve
A car accident disrupts more than just your vehicle. It affects your physical well-being, your family, your finances, and your sense of safety. You deserve legal support that helps you feel in control again. At Patterson Law Group, we offer compassionate, knowledgeable help to crash victims across San Antonio and Bexar County.
You do not need to know everything before reaching out. You do not need perfect records or a medical diagnosis. All you need is your story and a willingness to ask questions. We’ll do the rest—from explaining your rights to handling paperwork and speaking with the insurance company on your behalf.
We offer free consultations with no obligation to hire us. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. That means you can explore your options, understand your case, and get honest answers without taking on any risk.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, now is the time to learn how we can help. Contact Patterson Law Group today to schedule your free consultation. We are ready to listen, ready to support you, and ready to fight for the recovery you deserve.
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