Pedestrian accidents in San Antonio happen far too often and can change a person’s life in an instant. Whether you are crossing near the River Walk, making your way along Commerce Street, or walking through a busy school zone, the risk of being struck by a negligent driver is real. A single collision can cause catastrophic injuries, leaving you facing weeks or months of recovery and an uncertain future.
The aftermath of a pedestrian accident is overwhelming. You may be juggling medical care, missed work, and the frustration of dealing with insurance adjusters who are more focused on saving money than helping you recover. At Patterson Law Group, we understand these challenges. Our role is to guide you through this difficult time with compassion, clarity, and a commitment to achieving justice.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group for Pedestrian Accident Cases
Pedestrian accidents are different from other motor vehicle crashes, and they demand a legal team that understands their complexity. At Patterson Law Group, we have built our practice around putting clients first. Instead of prioritizing volume, we focus on providing meaningful support and representation to every individual we serve.
Selective Caseloads for Personal Attention
We deliberately keep our caseload smaller so that every client receives the time and dedication they deserve. This approach allows us to dig deeper into each case, thoroughly investigating the crash and tailoring our strategy to your unique needs. You are never treated like a number—we know your name, your story, and what matters most to you.
Direct Access to Attorneys
From your first call, you will have direct access to an attorney. We believe in building strong attorney-client relationships through consistent communication. If you have questions or concerns, your lawyer is available to speak with you directly rather than filtering your case through layers of staff. This access gives you peace of mind and ensures you always know the status of your claim.
Beyond-Legal Support for Recovery
Pedestrian accident victims often need help that goes beyond the courtroom. Our team assists with referrals to trusted medical providers, guidance on repairing or replacing damaged property, and support with navigating insurance paperwork. We believe that easing these day-to-day burdens is just as important as fighting for fair compensation.
Commitment to San Antonio’s Safety and Community
We live and work in San Antonio, and we are committed to making our streets safer. By holding negligent drivers accountable, we aim to improve traffic safety for everyone. Our deep ties to the community mean we are familiar with the local courts, dangerous intersections, and the resources available to help families recover after devastating crashes.
Pedestrian Accidents on San Antonio Streets and Crosswalks
San Antonio’s rapid growth has brought more traffic, and with it, greater risks for pedestrians. Busy intersections downtown are common crash sites, especially along corridors like Commerce Street and Houston Street, where both vehicles and foot traffic are heavy. Crosswalks near the River Walk, tourist attractions, and popular event spaces are particularly dangerous because of congestion and distracted drivers.
Pedestrian accidents also frequently occur on poorly lit residential streets, where drivers may not see someone crossing until it is too late. Neighborhoods without proper sidewalks or crossing signals increase the danger. Around shopping centers, parking lots, and schools, drivers often speed, make sudden turns, or fail to yield to pedestrians, putting families and children at serious risk. These patterns highlight why pedestrian safety remains one of the most pressing issues in Bexar County.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Collisions in Bexar County
While every accident is unique, most pedestrian collisions in San Antonio share common causes. Driver negligence is often the central factor.
Drivers Failing to Yield at Crosswalks
Texas law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, yet many motorists either ignore or are unaware of this rule. Failure to yield is one of the leading causes of pedestrian crashes. Victims are often struck while legally crossing the street, leaving little room to avoid injury.
Distracted or Impaired Driving
Cell phone use, in-car technology, and other distractions take a driver’s eyes and mind off the road. Impaired driving, whether from alcohol or drugs, slows reaction times and reduces awareness. Both distractions and impairment significantly increase the likelihood of hitting a pedestrian, especially in crowded urban areas or at night.
Speeding in School or Residential Zones
San Antonio has strict speed limits in school zones and residential areas, but not every driver obeys them. Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time if a child or adult suddenly crosses the road. Pedestrian accidents in these areas are particularly devastating because they often involve children walking to or from school.
Poor Visibility and Unsafe Intersections
Inadequate lighting, faded crosswalk markings, and poorly designed intersections contribute to pedestrian accidents. Drivers may not see pedestrians until it is too late, particularly at night or during bad weather. These conditions create a dangerous mix that leaves pedestrians vulnerable, even when they are following the law.
Common Types of Injuries in Pedestrian-Car Accidents
Pedestrians have no protection against the force of a vehicle, which is why injuries in these accidents are often severe. Victims may face long recoveries, permanent disabilities, or even fatal outcomes. Each injury carries unique challenges, from physical limitations to long-term financial and emotional strain. Understanding these common injuries helps explain why pedestrian accident claims are often so significant.
Traumatic Brain Injuries and Concussions
A collision can cause a pedestrian to strike their head on the vehicle or pavement, resulting in concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These injuries can impair memory, concentration, and cognitive function, sometimes permanently. TBIs often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. The long-term impact may include difficulty working, mood changes, and a need for continuous medical support. This type of injury can alter not only your health but also your quality of life.
Spinal Cord Damage and Paralysis
The impact of a crash can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. These life-altering injuries demand significant medical intervention and ongoing care. Victims often face costly home modifications and long-term therapy to adjust to new limitations. Many also require assistive devices or caregivers to handle daily tasks. The financial and emotional toll of spinal cord injuries can last a lifetime.
Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries
Broken arms, legs, hips, and ribs are common in pedestrian accidents. Some fractures require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation, limiting a person’s ability to work or perform daily activities. Multiple fractures can take months to heal, causing significant financial strain from medical bills and lost wages. These injuries may also leave victims with reduced mobility or chronic pain. The long-term effects can interfere with careers, family responsibilities, and independence.
Internal Organ Trauma
Even when external injuries appear minor, the force of a vehicle can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, lungs, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening without prompt medical care. Victims often need emergency surgery or extended hospital stays to recover. The recovery process can be painful and unpredictable, adding to the stress families already face. Identifying and treating these injuries quickly is crucial for survival and long-term health.
Emotional Distress and PTSD
The psychological effects of a pedestrian accident are just as real as physical injuries. Many victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Emotional trauma can interfere with recovery, work, and relationships, making counseling and therapy essential components of healing. These conditions often linger long after physical wounds have healed, creating another layer of difficulty. Including emotional distress in a claim ensures the full impact of the accident is recognized and addressed.
Texas Laws Protecting Pedestrians and Their Rights After a Crash
Texas law recognizes the vulnerability of pedestrians and provides specific protections to keep them safe. The Texas Transportation Code requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and to exercise caution in areas with heavy foot traffic. School zones, in particular, carry stricter penalties for drivers who fail to yield or speed.
When drivers ignore these laws, they can be held liable for the damages they cause. However, pedestrian accident claims often involve disputes over fault.
Shared Fault Under Texas Comparative Negligence Rules
Texas law follows a modified comparative negligence system. If you are found partially at fault—for example, if you were jaywalking—your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. However, as long as you are not more than 50 percent at fault, you can still pursue damages. This makes it essential to have an attorney who can counter attempts to unfairly assign blame.
Understanding these laws is critical to protecting your rights after a crash. Having an attorney who can apply these rules to your situation ensures you are not unfairly blamed and that your claim reflects the full impact of your injuries. Patterson Law Group is here to provide that guidance and fight for your recovery.
Steps to Take After Being Hit by a Vehicle in San Antonio
The moments after being struck by a vehicle are confusing and frightening. While your first priority should always be your health, there are also important steps you can take to protect your legal rights. Following a clear checklist helps ensure that vital evidence is preserved and that your path to recovery is as strong as possible.
Call 911 and Request Medical Help
Your safety must come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, it is important to be evaluated by medical professionals because internal injuries or concussions are not always visible. Calling 911 also ensures that police arrive to document the crash, creating the first official record of what happened.
File and Obtain a Police Report
Once officers respond, they will prepare a crash report that identifies the parties involved and records initial observations about the scene. This document is critical for insurance claims and lawsuits, as it often provides details about fault. Requesting a copy of this report as soon as it becomes available allows your attorney to begin building your case without delay.
Gather Driver and Witness Information
If you are able, collect the driver’s contact details, driver’s license number, and insurance information. Witnesses can provide statements that confirm your account of events, so ask for their names and phone numbers. These details become especially valuable when the driver disputes fault.
Document Injuries and Accident Details
Photographs of the scene, skid marks, traffic lights, and your injuries provide strong visual evidence. Keeping a journal of your symptoms and recovery process also strengthens your claim by showing how the crash continues to affect your daily life. This documentation is often used to demonstrate pain and suffering damages.
Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Promptly
Legal representation early in the process helps you avoid mistakes that could weaken your case. An attorney will manage communications with insurers, secure medical records, and ensure that deadlines are met. The sooner you reach out, the stronger your claim will be.
Determining Liability in a Pedestrian Accident Claim
Establishing fault is one of the most important parts of a pedestrian accident case. Multiple parties may be responsible, and insurers often attempt to shift blame to reduce payouts. Identifying all potential defendants ensures you have access to the full compensation available.
Negligent or Reckless Drivers
Most pedestrian crashes are caused by drivers who fail to yield, speed through intersections, or drive while distracted. These drivers can be held directly liable for the harm they cause. Evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and traffic camera footage is often used to prove negligence.
Employers of Commercial Drivers
If the at-fault driver was operating a company vehicle at the time of the crash, their employer may share responsibility. Employers can be held liable for negligent hiring, poor training, or placing unreasonable demands on drivers. Including employers in a claim expands the sources of compensation available to victims.
Local Government Agencies Responsible for Unsafe Roads
In some cases, hazardous road conditions contribute to pedestrian accidents. Poor lighting, missing crosswalks, or malfunctioning traffic signals may be the responsibility of local or state government agencies. Claims against government entities are more complex, but they are sometimes necessary to secure full recovery.
Potential Compensation Available for Pedestrian Victims
Pedestrian accident victims are often entitled to significant compensation under Texas law. The damages you may recover depend on the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life. Each category of damages is designed to address a different part of your recovery, from medical bills to emotional well-being. By pursuing all available compensation, you give yourself the best chance of rebuilding after a devastating crash.
Medical Expenses and Rehabilitation
You can pursue compensation for all medical costs related to the accident, including emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. Future treatment costs, such as rehabilitation or long-term care, can also be included. These expenses often represent the largest portion of a claim and can last for years after the crash. By documenting every medical appointment and expense, we ensure nothing is left out of your recovery.
Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover the wages you lost during recovery. In serious cases, you may also claim damages for reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job or must work fewer hours. These damages help protect your household’s financial stability when your career is interrupted. They also account for the long-term impact an injury can have on your ability to support your family.
Pain and Suffering Damages
These damages account for the physical pain caused by your injuries. Chronic discomfort, reduced mobility, and the inability to perform daily tasks are all considered when calculating pain and suffering. This category recognizes that healing is not only about covering medical bills but also about acknowledging the day-to-day struggles you endure. Proving these damages often involves detailed records and testimony about how your life has changed since the accident.
Emotional and Psychological Harm
Pedestrian accidents often leave lasting emotional scars. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder are common, and victims may require counseling or therapy. These damages recognize the mental toll of the crash. By including emotional harm in your claim, you ensure that your recovery addresses the full scope of your suffering. Acknowledging these struggles also helps counter insurance companies that try to minimize the non-physical effects of accidents.
Wrongful Death Damages for Families
When a pedestrian accident results in death, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim. These damages may include funeral expenses, lost financial support, and compensation for the loss of companionship and guidance. Such claims provide essential resources for families as they grieve and rebuild. They also hold negligent parties accountable for the ultimate harm caused by their actions.
Challenges in Proving Pedestrian Accident Cases
Pedestrian accident claims often present unique challenges. Witnesses may be unavailable, and intersection designs can create disputes over who had the right of way. Drivers frequently deny responsibility, leaving victims to rely on physical evidence and police reports.
Insurance companies may also argue that the pedestrian was partially at fault, especially in cases where crosswalks were not used. These disputes make strong legal support essential. Having an attorney who can gather evidence, consult with experts, and counter insurer tactics greatly improves your chances of success.
How a San Antonio Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Can Help
Legal representation provides critical advantages in pedestrian accident cases. At Patterson Law Group, we combine legal knowledge with compassionate support to guide clients through every stage of recovery. We take the time to understand how the accident has affected your life so we can build a case that reflects your true needs. By standing with you from start to finish, we make sure you feel supported, informed, and empowered.
Investigating and Documenting the Crash
We collect police reports, witness statements, and photographic evidence to build a clear picture of how the accident occurred. This thorough investigation strengthens your claim and counters disputes over liability. We also consult with experts when necessary to reconstruct crashes and confirm how negligence caused your injuries. This level of detail gives us a strong foundation to challenge insurance company arguments.
Gathering Medical and Financial Records
Our team organizes your medical bills, treatment records, and proof of lost income. Presenting this documentation in a clear and complete way makes it harder for insurers to undervalue your losses. We also work with doctors and specialists to estimate your future medical needs, ensuring long-term costs are included. By presenting both current and future damages, we fight for a settlement that fully reflects your recovery.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
We handle all communication with insurers, ensuring that you are not pressured into accepting a low settlement. Our experience with pedestrian accident claims allows us to push back against unfair tactics and demand full compensation. By negotiating from a position of strength, we maximize your chances of securing a fair resolution without unnecessary delays. If insurers refuse to be reasonable, we are always prepared to escalate and protect your interests in court.
Preparing Cases for Trial if Needed
While many pedestrian accident claims settle, some require litigation. We prepare every case as though it will go to trial, which gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures you are ready for court if necessary. This proactive approach prevents last-minute surprises and shows insurers that we are serious about getting justice. Having trial-ready representation provides peace of mind and increases your chances of achieving a strong outcome.
Speak With San Antonio Pedestrian Accident Lawyers Today
A pedestrian accident can leave you struggling with serious injuries, medical bills, and the frustration of navigating insurance claims. You do not have to face these challenges alone. At Patterson Law Group, we offer free consultations so you can learn your rights without risk.
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we secure compensation for you. If you or a loved one has been struck by a vehicle in San Antonio or Bexar County, reach out today. Let us stand beside you, fight for justice, and help you take the first step toward recovery.
