Man Killed in San Antonio Pedestrian Accident
The early morning crash involving an 18-wheeler closed the northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near Division Road
A man in his 30s was killed in a pedestrian accident involving a commercial truck on Interstate 35 near Division Road in San Antonio on Friday, April 24, according to the San Antonio Police Department.
The pedestrian was crossing the northbound lanes of the highway around 4:30 a.m. when he was struck by an 18-wheeler.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Texas Department of Transportation closed the northbound lanes for several hours while investigators examined the crash site.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, the state recorded 772 pedestrian deaths from traffic crashes in 2024. Pedestrians represent 19% of all roadway death in Texas despite being involved in only 1% of traffic crashes.
The crash remains under investigation. Police have not released the victim's name.
The loss of a loved one in a commercial vehicle collision leaves families searching for answers while facing immediate investigative hurdles. National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from a crash scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Time is of the essence in cases such as this one, and the victim’s family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently."
Why are commercial truck investigations on Interstate 35 complex?
Crashes involving 18-wheelers require extensive forensic analysis, including the review of electronic logging devices, driver hours-of-service records, and vehicle maintenance logs. Investigators will look at the truck's speed, braking distance, and the driver's reaction time when the pedestrian entered the northbound lanes near Division Road.
What factors contribute to early morning pedestrian collisions?
Visibility is a primary concern in pre-dawn crashes. At 4:30 a.m., lighting conditions on the highway, driver fatigue, and the pedestrian's exact location in the travel lanes all play critical roles in determining how the collision occurred.
While police determine the sequence of events, trucking companies often deploy their own investigators to the scene immediately to build their defense. National Legal Analyst Stefano Formica, of Counsel at Counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their best interests are taken care of. Relatives of wrongful death victims are entitled to seek damages for the loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident."
Texas wrongful death statute
Under Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 71.001, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Texas applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 2 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship and consortium, funeral expenses, and mental anguish.