San Antonio T-Bone Accident Attorney

Experienced Legal Representation for Side-Impact Collisions

Side-impact or T-bone collisions pose a serious threat to vehicle occupants, especially in densely populated areas like San Antonio and throughout Bexar County. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) highlights that side-impact airbags are critical safety features that can drastically reduce the severity of injuries in these types of crashes.

Why Side-Impact Airbags Matter Across San Antonio’s Neighborhoods

Whether you’re driving through Downtown San Antonio, navigating the busy streets of Alamo Heights, or commuting in Leon Valley, Fair Oaks Ranch, Leon Springs, or Stone Oak, the risk of side-impact collisions remains high, especially at intersections and during heavy traffic hours. Side-impact airbags, designed to protect both the head and torso, can reduce fatalities by up to 70% in left-side crashes.

Injured in a T-bone accident in San Antonio? Reach out through our contact form or call (210) 893-0000 for a free consultation. Hablamos Español.

Downtown San Antonio

As the heart of the city, Downtown San Antonio is a hub of congested intersections, one-way streets, and pedestrian traffic. With heavy commuter flow near the Alamodome, River Walk, and major intersections like Cesar E. Chavez Blvd, T-bone collisions are common. Side-impact airbags are vital here, as most crashes occur at traffic-light-controlled junctions where side intrusion can cause serious harm.

Alamo Heights

A high-traffic blend of residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors, Alamo Heights sees frequent side-impact accidents, especially near Broadway, Austin Highway, and New Braunfels Avenue. These types of accidents often result from failure to yield or distracted driving at intersections. If you’ve been injured in a T-bone accident in Alamo Heights, legal representation is key to recovering full compensation.

Leon Springs

Located along the I-10 corridor northwest of San Antonio, Leon Springs is a rapidly developing area with limited traffic infrastructure. The combination of fast-moving traffic, poor visibility, and uncontrolled intersections on roads like Boerne Stage Road and Old Fredericksburg Road make T-bone accidents a real danger. Due to its mix of rural and suburban conditions, victims here often face complex insurance issues that require experienced legal help.

Stone Oak & Windcrest

Located in the northern and northeastern suburbs, these fast-developing areas face increased traffic from commuters, shoppers, and school traffic. Roads like Stone Oak Parkway, Evans Road, and Walzem Road are common sites for side-impact crashes. With larger family vehicles and SUVs common here, side airbags and crash mitigation systems are essential safety features.

Leon Valley

Just outside Loop 410 in Northwest San Antonio, Leon Valley experiences heavy traffic on Bandera Road, Grissom Road, and Evers Road. These routes are notorious for high-speed and sudden-stop traffic patterns that lead to intersection-related collisions. Drivers injured in a T-bone crash in Leon Valley may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Kirby and Converse

Eastern Bexar County suburbs like Kirby and Converse deal with a high mix of industrial, commuter, and local traffic. FM 78 and the intersections along Binz-Engleman and Ackerman Road are hotspots for serious T-bone crashes. Many of these accidents involve commercial vehicles, increasing the potential for injury. Victims in these areas often require legal guidance due to the complex nature of liability.

Fair Oaks Ranch

Situated near I-10 on the edge of Bexar, Kendall, and Comal counties, Fair Oaks Ranch blends hill country living with growing suburban sprawl. Intersections along Ralph Fair Road and Dietz Elkhorn have become more accident-prone as the area develops. With long stretches of two-lane roads and limited lighting, side-impact crashes often occur at stop signs or unprotected turns.

Bexar County Roadways & Safety Features

The extensive roadways across Bexar County, including major arteries like I-35, Loop 1604, and US-281, see thousands of vehicles daily. According to the Texas Department of Transportation, many accidents involving side-impact collisions occur on these busy highways and their connecting roads.

Side-impact airbags have become a critical defense, absorbing the energy from collisions and protecting occupants from severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, broken ribs, and spinal damage.

Protect Yourself in San Antonio & Bexar County T-Bone Accidents

If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone (side-impact) car accident in San Antonio or anywhere in Bexar County, you are not alone—and you have legal options. T-bone collisions often occur at intersections and are among the most dangerous types of crashes due to the limited protection on the sides of most vehicles. Neighborhoods such as Fair Oaks Ranch, Castle Hills, Leon Valley, Terrell Hills, Stone Oak, Alamo Heights, and Downtown San Antonio all see frequent intersection-related side-impact crashes.  Hablamos Español.

Understanding the role your vehicle’s safety features, including side-impact airbags, crash sensors, and reinforced door frames, played in your injuries is crucial. These systems can dramatically influence both the extent of injury and the strength of your personal injury claim. For example, if a side airbag failed to deploy during a severe T-bone crash, vehicle defect liability may come into play.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our San Antonio T-Bone Accident Attorneys understand the complex biomechanics and legal issues surrounding side-impact crashes. We work with accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and engineers to evaluate crash dynamics and safety system performance. Our legal team is highly familiar with San Antonio intersections prone to these accidents, such as those along I-10, Loop 410, US-281, and Military Drive.

We’re committed to helping you:

• Investigate the cause of the collision
• Determine fault and liability
• Evaluate how your vehicle’s safety systems affected the crash outcome
• Fight for maximum compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more

Whether the crash occurred in a school zone in Windcrest, near the medical district by Fredericksburg Road, or at a fast-paced intersection in Fair Oaks Ranch, our firm is here to guide you through every step of the legal process. Call (210) 893-0000 or complete the online form to see how we can help.

What Is a T-Bone Accident?

A T-bone accident, also known as a side-impact or broadside collision, occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the side of another at a perpendicular angle, forming a “T” shape. These crashes are especially common at intersections, driveway exits, and traffic signal-controlled areas throughout cities like San Antonio, where multiple lanes of traffic often converge.

Causes of T-Bone Crashes

T-bone collisions frequently result from driver error or traffic violations, such as:

• Running red lights or stop signs – According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), red-light running is a major cause of intersection crashes.
• Failing to yield the right-of-way – Many side-impact crashes occur when drivers turn left across traffic without yielding.
• Distracted driving – The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that texting or using a phone while driving significantly increases the risk of side-impact collisions.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs – Drunk or impaired drivers are less likely to stop at red lights or make safe left turns, leading to severe T-bone accidents. Learn more from NHTSA’s impaired driving data.

Don’t wait after a side-impact crash — get the legal help you need. Fill out our contact form or call (210) 893-0000 to speak with a T-bone accident attorney. Hablamos Español.

Why T-Bone Accidents Are So Dangerous

T-bone crashes are among the deadliest types of car accidents, primarily because most passenger vehicles offer limited side protection compared to front and rear areas. Even with side-impact airbags, the energy of a direct strike to the side door can cause:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Broken ribs, hips, or limbs
• Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
• Internal bleeding or organ damage

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), nearly 25% of passenger vehicle deaths occur in side-impact crashes, emphasizing the need for robust side-impact protection and legal support for victims.

Where T-Bone Accidents Happen Most Often

In busy metro areas like San Antonio, side-impact collisions frequently occur at intersections such as:

• Loop 410 & Bandera Road
• US-281 & Thousand Oaks
• Fredericksburg Road & Medical Drive

If you’ve been injured in a T-bone crash at any intersection or neighborhood across Bexar County, it’s critical to consult an experienced car accident lawyer who understands how to investigate fault, obtain crash reports, and maximize your injury claim.

Call (210) 893-0000 or contact our San Antonio T-Bone Accident Lawyers for a free consultation. We’ll help you recover compensation and understand your legal rights after a serious side-impact collision.

T-Bone Accident Statistics in San Antonio

T-bone accidents, also called side-impact collisions, remain one of the most dangerous crash types on San Antonio roads. These accidents typically occur when one driver fails to yield at an intersection, runs a red light, or drives distracted—resulting in a high-force impact directly into the side of another vehicle.

According to recent crash data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), over 45,000 motor vehicle crashes occurred in San Antonio in 2023 alone. A significant portion involved intersection-related collisions, where side impacts like T-bone accidents are most common. Areas with particularly high crash volumes include:

• Bandera Road at Loop 1604
• Rittiman Road near I-35
• Loop 410 & San Pedro Avenue
• Culebra Road & Grissom Road

TxDOT’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS) enables public access to detailed crash reports, which often include contributing factors such as failure to yield, improper turns, or disregard for traffic signals—key elements in most T-bone crashes.

Intersection Hotspots for Side-Impact Collisions

T-bone accidents are especially common in areas of high congestion and complex traffic patterns, such as:

• Downtown San Antonio, where busy cross-streets and pedestrian activity increase the risk of intersection crashes.
• Alamo Heights and Castle Hills, where mixed residential and commercial traffic creates frequent left-turn conflicts.
• Leon Valley and Windcrest, where suburban growth has led to more traffic congestion and limited visibility at intersections.
• Rittiman Road and Perrin Beitel, which are prone to speeding and quick signal changes.

The City of San Antonio has recognized these dangers through its Vision Zero initiative, which seeks to eliminate all traffic-related deaths and serious injuries through better design, enforcement, and education.

Why T-Bone Crashes Are So Dangerous

Side-impact collisions often result in serious injuries because most passenger vehicles have minimal structural protection on the doors compared to the front and rear. Even with side-impact airbags and reinforced side beams, the occupant is close to the point of impact, which can lead to:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord trauma or paralysis
• Broken ribs, pelvis, or limbs
• Internal bleeding or organ damage

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that side-impact crashes account for approximately 25% of all passenger vehicle occupant deaths in the U.S., underscoring the seriousness of these collisions.

Have you been injured in a T-bone accident in San Antonio or Bexar County?

The attorneys at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers can help you understand your rights and fight for full compensation. Call us at (210) 893-0000 for a free consultation. We handle cases across the region—including Stone Oak, Fair Oaks Ranch, Terrell Hills, and beyond. Hablamos Español.

Causes of T-Bone Accidents

T-bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, are among the most dangerous types of car crashes due to the limited side protection vehicles offer. Understanding the common causes of T-bone accidents is crucial for prevention, awareness, and building a strong personal injury case if you’ve been involved in such a crash in San Antonio or the surrounding Bexar County areas.

Failure to Yield Right-of-Way

One of the leading causes of T-bone accidents is drivers failing to yield the right-of-way at intersections. Whether running a red light, ignoring a stop sign, or misjudging another vehicle’s speed, this failure can result in a devastating side-impact collision. According to the San Antonio Police Department, intersection-related crashes remain a significant concern on busy city streets and highways.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a major factor in many T-bone accidents across Texas. Activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting in-car technology divert a driver’s attention from the road. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that distracted driving contributes to thousands of accidents each year in Texas, including severe side-impact crashes. Avoiding distractions is critical to reducing the risk of T-bone collisions.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs dramatically increases the risk of T-bone accidents in San Antonio and Bexar County. Intoxicated drivers have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to run red lights or fail to yield at intersections. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) provides extensive resources on combating impaired driving and reducing crashes related to DUI.

Speeding

Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to prevent a collision. When approaching intersections at high speeds, the likelihood of a side-impact crash increases significantly. Speeding is a common cause of T-bone accidents on major San Antonio roadways such as I-10, Loop 410, and US Highway 281. TxDOT’s traffic safety programs highlight speeding as a leading contributor to serious injuries and fatalities in Bexar County.

By recognizing these primary causes, San Antonio drivers can take proactive steps to improve road safety and reduce the risk of T-bone accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a side-impact collision, it’s important to consult with an experienced San Antonio car accident lawyer who understands the complexities of these crashes and can fight for your rights.

Injuries Resulting from Side-Impact Collisions

T-bone or side-impact collisions are among the most dangerous types of car accidents, often causing serious and life-altering injuries. Because vehicles offer less structural protection on the sides compared to the front and rear, occupants involved in these crashes are particularly vulnerable to severe harm. Understanding the types of injuries that commonly result from side-impact accidents can help victims seek appropriate medical care and legal compensation.

Head and Neck Injuries

Side-impact collisions frequently cause traumatic head and neck injuries. The sudden and forceful impact can lead to concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and whiplash, where the head snaps violently forward and backward. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent but can result in chronic pain, cognitive difficulties, and long-term neurological issues. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of head and neck trauma following car accidents.

Chest and Abdominal Injuries

Due to the proximity of the side of the vehicle to vital organs, chest and abdominal injuries are common in T-bone accidents. Victims may suffer from rib fractures, lung contusions, or damage to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries often result from the compression forces exerted during impact or from contact with the vehicle’s interior, such as the door or window frame. Prompt medical evaluation is critical, as internal injuries can be life-threatening even if symptoms appear mild initially.

Pelvic and Leg Injuries

In many side-impact collisions, the passenger compartment is compromised when the other vehicle intrudes into the space occupied by occupants. This intrusion often causes pelvic fractures, hip dislocations, and serious leg injuries including fractures and soft tissue damage. These injuries can lead to long-term mobility issues or require extensive surgeries and rehabilitation. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) offers resources highlighting the risks and preventative measures for severe injuries in vehicle crashes.

If you or a loved one has sustained injuries in a San Antonio or Bexar County T-bone accident, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with a skilled San Antonio personal injury attorney who can help protect your rights and pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

Side-impact collisions can cause serious injuries — let us help. Contact us online or call (210) 893-0000 for a free case review. Hablamos Español.

Determining Fault in T-Bone Accidents

When it comes to T-bone (side-impact) accidents in San Antonio and the wider Bexar County area, establishing who is at fault is a critical step in pursuing a personal injury claim. Texas operates under a modified comparative fault system, which means that injured parties can recover compensation as long as they are found to be less than 51% responsible for the crash. If you are partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced proportionally, but if you are 51% or more at fault, you may be barred from recovery altogether.

Key Factors in Determining Fault in Side-Impact Collisions:

• Traffic Law Violations: One of the most common reasons for fault in T-bone accidents is the violation of traffic laws. This includes running red lights or stop signs, failing to yield the right-of-way at intersections, or making illegal turns. The Texas Transportation Code outlines the rules drivers must follow, and violations can be strong evidence of negligence.
• Eyewitness Testimonies: Accounts from bystanders, passengers, or other drivers who witnessed the accident can provide crucial details about how the crash occurred. Eyewitness statements often clarify the sequence of events and help confirm or dispute claims made by the involved parties.
• Physical Evidence from the Scene: Investigators analyze physical evidence such as skid marks, vehicle damage patterns, and debris distribution to reconstruct the accident. This evidence helps determine the point of impact, vehicle speeds, and directions, offering objective data to support fault determination. Local authorities, such as the San Antonio Police Department Traffic Division, often conduct thorough crash scene investigations.
• Photographic and Video Evidence: In today’s digital age, video footage from traffic cameras, nearby businesses, or dashboard cameras can be invaluable. Photographs taken at the scene immediately after the crash also document road conditions, vehicle positions, and damages. These visuals provide compelling evidence to support your claim.

Legal Considerations in T-Bone Accident Cases

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone (side-impact) accident anywhere in San Antonio or the surrounding Bexar County areas, understanding the key legal considerations can significantly affect the outcome of your personal injury claim. These cases often involve complex issues related to insurance, medical evidence, and legal deadlines that must be carefully navigated to protect your rights and maximize compensation.

Important Legal Factors to Keep in Mind:

• Insurance Claims and Coverage: Handling insurance companies is often one of the most challenging parts of a T-bone accident claim. You may need to deal with your own insurance provider’s personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payments coverage, as well as the at-fault driver’s liability insurance. Texas follows a fault-based system, meaning the responsible party’s insurance is typically liable for your damages. However, insurance adjusters may try to minimize payouts or dispute fault, so having experienced legal representation is critical.
• Comprehensive Medical Documentation: Properly documenting your injuries is essential in proving the severity and impact of the accident. Medical records, diagnostic tests, treatment plans, and expert evaluations provide the evidence needed to support your injury claim. Side-impact collisions can cause serious trauma that may not be immediately apparent, so timely and thorough medical attention is vital. Additionally, documenting ongoing treatments or rehabilitation strengthens your case for damages related to pain and suffering, lost wages, and future medical needs.
• Adhering to Legal Deadlines: Texas enforces strict statutes of limitations for personal injury cases. Generally, you have two years from the date of the T-bone accident to file a lawsuit, according to Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation, regardless of the merits of your case. It’s crucial to act promptly and consult with a knowledgeable San Antonio personal injury attorney who can help you meet all legal requirements.
• Potential Comparative Fault Issues: Since Texas uses a modified comparative fault system, your compensation may be affected if you share any degree of fault in the accident. Understanding how fault percentages are calculated and how they influence your claim is vital in building a successful case.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our local San Antonio T-Bone Accident attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of Texas injury law and insurance practices. We guide clients through every step of the claims process — from negotiating with insurance companies to gathering medical evidence and meeting all legal deadlines — ensuring your case has the strongest possible foundation.

Why Hire Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers for Your T-Bone Accident Case in San Antonio?

If you’ve been seriously injured in a T-bone accident in San Antonio, you need a legal team that not only understands the law, but knows the local roads, courts, and insurance tactics inside and out. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we are proud to serve victims across Bexar County, offering experienced and aggressive representation for side-impact and broadside collision claims.

Here’s why clients trust us after a serious car crash:

Free Initial Consultations

We provide free, no-risk consultations for car accident victims throughout San Antonio. Whether your T-bone crash occurred on I-35, Loop 410, or at a busy city intersection, we’re here to answer your questions, explain your legal rights, and outline a winning strategy — without any upfront cost. Visit our San Antonio Car Accident Lawyers page to learn more about how we handle all types of motor vehicle collisions.

Experienced, Results-Driven Trial Attorneys

Our team has years of experience handling complex T-bone and side-impact accident claims involving serious injuries such as broken bones, brain trauma, internal bleeding, and spinal cord damage. We know how to investigate intersection crashes, gather key evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies for the maximum compensation available under Texas law. We also represent clients in cases involving rear-end crashes and offer dedicated Spanish-language support on our San Antonio rear-end accident page.

One-on-One Attention with a Local Advantage

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, every client receives personalized service and legal support tailored to their specific case. We are based right here in South Texas and proudly represent injured victims throughout San Antonio, Leon Valley, Converse, Castle Hills, and all surrounding communities. Whether you’re recovering from injuries or dealing with insurance disputes, we’ll handle the legal pressure so you can focus on healing.

Injured in a San Antonio T-bone collision? Don’t wait for the insurance company to take control of your claim. Call Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers today at (210) 893-0000 for a free case review and aggressive representation from a team that knows how to win. Hablamos Español.

Call (210) 893-0000 Now!

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in San Antonio, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact us at Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers for a free consultation. Call us at (210) 893-0000 or fill out our online contact form.

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T-Bone Accidents in San Antonio: What the Data Shows

According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s District and County Statistics (DISCOS), San Antonio — part of the TxDOT San Antonio District — continues to see a troubling number of intersection-related crashes. In 2023 alone, Bexar County reported over 48,690 total motor vehicle collisions, a rise from the previous year. Many of these crashes occurred at intersections, where T-bone (side-impact) accidents are especially common.

Although traffic fatalities in Bexar County dropped from 247 in 2022 to 209 in 2023, side-impact collisions remain among the most dangerous types of wrecks due to the lack of structural protection on vehicle doors. These accidents often lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and internal bleeding.

Busy intersections like those at Loop 1604, I-35, and US-281 are frequently cited in San Antonio crash reports, particularly for broadside collisions caused by red-light running or failure to yield.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, our legal team understands the complexities of proving fault in T-bone collisions. These cases often rely on:

• Surveillance footage or dashcams
• Eyewitness statements
• Vehicle damage analysis
• Expert crash reconstruction

If you’ve been involved in a side-impact crash in San Antonio, especially one involving speeding, distracted driving, or intersection violations, it’s critical to consult a qualified legal professional. We can help investigate your case, collect TxDOT data, and pursue full and fair compensation for your injuries.

Call us at (210) 893–0000 or schedule a free case review today. We’re ready to fight for you — se habla español.

San Antonio’s Complex Road Network & T-Bone Collision Risks

San Antonio’s road system is one of the most expansive and heavily trafficked in Texas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s Roadway Inventory, the San Antonio District maintains thousands of lane miles of roadway — including major arterials like Interstate 10, Loop 410, US 281, and State Highway 151. This dense, high-speed network creates daily opportunities for serious side-impact crashes, especially at intersections and highway access roads.

T-bone accidents often occur when drivers fail to yield, run red lights, or misjudge gaps in traffic — all of which are common at fast-moving intersections across San Antonio. The TxDOT Roadway Inventory highlights the volume and complexity of road types in Bexar County, from urban interstates to rural connectors, making visibility and right-of-way challenges even more severe in areas like:

• I-35 & Walzem Road
• Loop 410 & Jackson Keller
• Marbach Road & Military Drive

These intersections are frequently flagged in San Antonio crash reports and have been the site of numerous side-impact collisions with devastating consequences.

At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we analyze roadway design, speed limits, and intersection patterns using data from the TxDOT Highway Performance Monitoring System (HPMS) to support your claim. If the roadway itself contributed to your crash — such as poor signage, blocked lines of sight, or inadequate traffic control devices — we may be able to pursue additional liability.

Injured in a T-Bone Crash on a San Antonio Roadway?

Let our experienced San Antonio T-bone accident lawyers investigate every angle of your case — including road conditions and intersection safety. Contact us at (210) 893-0000 or reach out online for a free consultation. Hablamos Español.

Accessing San Antonio T-Bone Accident Data: TxDOT Crash Records

For those seeking detailed information on T-bone accidents in San Antonio, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) serves as the custodian of crash records for the state. According to Texas Transportation Code §550.062, law enforcement officers are required to submit a written report of any motor vehicle crash resulting in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to TxDOT within ten days of the incident.

How to Obtain Crash Reports

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in San Antonio, you may wish to obtain a copy of the Texas Peace Officer’s Crash Report (CR-3). TxDOT provides an online Crash Report Purchase System where individuals can request and receive crash reports via email. The required fee is $6 for a regular copy and $8 for a certified copy, which is often necessary for legal proceedings.

Analyzing Crash Data

For a broader understanding of traffic incidents, including T-bone accidents, TxDOT offers the Crash Records Information System (CRIS), which maintains a statewide, automated database for reportable motor vehicle traffic crashes. Through the CRIS Query Tool, users can query, extract, and analyze publicly available crash data, enabling a comprehensive view of accident trends in San Antonio.

Were you T-boned at an intersection in San Antonio? Start your claim today or call (210) 893-0000. Hablamos Español.

Requesting Crash Data

If you’re seeking specific crash data beyond what’s available online, TxDOT provides an online Crash Data Request Form. This form allows individuals and organizations to submit requests for detailed crash information. It’s important to note that TxDOT’s retention period for crash records includes the previous 10 full calendar years plus the current calendar year, and not all crash information is releasable due to confidentiality laws.

Need Legal Assistance?

If you’ve been involved in a T-bone accident in San Antonio, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the legal process and help you obtain the necessary crash reports. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we have extensive knowledge in handling T-bone accident cases and can assist you in accessing and interpreting crash data to support your claim.

Contact us today at (210) 893-0000 or schedule a free consultation. Hablamos Español.

Importance of Side-Impact Airbags in T-Bone Accidents

Side-impact crashes account for a substantial percentage of vehicle occupant fatalities. The IIHS has found that vehicles equipped with side airbags offer significantly better protection in such collisions. Specifically, drivers of vehicles rated “good” for side-impact protection are 70% less likely to die in a left-side crash compared to those in vehicles rated “poor”.

Moreover, the IIHS emphasizes that side airbags, especially those protecting the head, are vital in reducing fatalities in near-side collisions. For instance, side airbags protecting the head have been shown to reduce driver deaths in near-side crashes by 37%.

Side-Impact Airbags: A Standard Safety Feature

In response to the growing need for enhanced side-impact protection, many manufacturers have made side-impact airbags standard in their vehicles. The IIHS only awards “good” ratings to vehicles equipped with side airbags that protect both the head and torso, underscoring the importance of these safety features.

San Antonio Context

In San Antonio, where traffic congestion and intersection-related accidents are prevalent, the presence of side-impact airbags can be a decisive factor in occupant survival during T-bone accidents. Given the city’s extensive road network and the frequency of side-impact collisions, vehicles equipped with comprehensive side-impact protection are particularly beneficial.

Legal Implications

Understanding the role of side-impact airbags is essential when evaluating the circumstances of a T-bone accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in such an accident in San Antonio, it’s crucial to consult with legal professionals who can assess the impact of vehicle safety features on your case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbags and Side-Impact Crashes in San Antonio

How do side airbags work in a car crash?

Side airbags are designed to deploy within milliseconds during a side-impact collision, such as a T-bone accident. They typically emerge from the seat, door, or roof rail to protect the occupant’s torso and head. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), side airbags reduce driver death risk by 37% in cars and 52% in SUVs.

Are side airbags standard in all vehicles?

Side airbags are not federally required but have become standard in most new vehicles due to industry safety ratings and consumer demand. Many manufacturers include them to meet IIHS safety benchmarks and recommendations from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Do airbags always prevent injury in a T-bone accident?

Airbags significantly reduce the severity of injuries, but they cannot completely prevent harm—especially in high-speed or severe side-impact collisions. The effectiveness depends on crash speed, impact angle, and the presence of additional features like reinforced door beams and seatbelt use.

What injuries do airbags help prevent in side-impact crashes?

In a T-bone or broadside crash, side airbags help prevent head trauma, chest injuries, pelvic fractures, and internal organ damage. Without them, vehicle occupants are far more vulnerable to direct contact with the door or window during impact.

Can you sue if airbags fail during a side-impact crash?

Yes. If side airbags failed to deploy in a T-bone accident and contributed to your injuries, you may have a claim against the vehicle manufacturer or airbag supplier. Our San Antonio car accident lawyers can help investigate potential defects and pursue compensation under Texas product liability law.

Call (210) 893-0000 to Speak with a San Antonio Car Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a T-bone or side-impact collision in San Antonio or Bexar County, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. At Ried Pecina Trial Lawyers, we fight for victims of serious car accidents across South Texas — including Stone Oak, Downtown, Alamo Heights, and surrounding areas.

Call (210) 893-0000 now to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with a skilled San Antonio personal injury attorney. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Hablamos Español.

After a T-bone crash in Bexar County, get the legal support you deserve. Submit your case online or call (210) 893-0000 now. Hablamos Español.

About San Antonio, TX

San Antonio is the seventh-largest city in the United States and a vibrant center of culture, history, and economic growth. Famous for landmarks like the Alamo, the San Antonio River Walk, and the annual Fiesta San Antonio, this city combines a rich heritage with dynamic urban development. With a population exceeding 1.5 million residents, San Antonio is the largest city in Bexar County and a key economic hub in South Texas.

San Antonio’s extensive network of highways and city streets—including Interstate 10, Loop 410, and U.S. Highway 281—handles millions of vehicle trips each day. This high traffic volume, combined with busy intersections and growing suburban areas like Stone Oak, Leon Valley, and Alamo Heights, contributes to an increased risk of car accidents, including T-bone collisions and side-impact crashes. For the latest traffic updates and safety programs, you can visit the San Antonio Police Department Traffic Division, which works tirelessly to reduce accidents and improve roadway safety.

The Texas Department of Transportation’s San Antonio District Office oversees maintenance and improvements across the region’s roads, helping to enhance traffic flow and reduce collision risks. Additionally, organizations like the San Antonio Mobility Coalition and Bexar County Transportation Planning play vital roles in promoting safe, efficient travel throughout the city and surrounding areas.

Whether you live in downtown San Antonio, the historic districts of King William and Monte Vista, or the growing suburbs such as Leon Springs and Fair Oaks Ranch, understanding local traffic conditions and safety laws is critical. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in San Antonio or Bexar County, having a knowledgeable local attorney on your side can make all the difference.