San Antonio, TX — November 7, 2024, one person was injured in a car accident at about 9:40 p.m. on State Highway Loop 368/Broadway.
A preliminary accident report indicates a 2004 Mercury Grand Marquis was traveling south near Parland Place when it hit a pedestrian.
The pedestrian, a 23-year-old man whose name has not been made public, suffered suspected serious injuries in the crash, according to authorities.
The Mercury driver, a 33-year-old man, was not injured.
Authorities have not released any additional information about the Bexar County crash.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When I read about a crash like this, my first thought is that those involved deserve clear answers about what happened. That may seem simple, but in my experience, pedestrian crashes are often more complex than they initially appear. To fully understand what led to this incident, three critical questions must be asked.
First, did authorities conduct a thorough investigation? In pedestrian crashes, investigators often focus on whether the pedestrian was in a crosswalk or visible to traffic. But just as important is an examination of the driver’s actions. Was the driver speeding, distracted, or impaired? Were road conditions, poor lighting, or obstructions contributing factors? Did the area have proper signage or pedestrian crossings? A full investigation should consider all of these elements to provide a clear understanding of what happened.
Second, has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect contributed to the crash? The Mercury Grand Marquis is an older model, and with aging vehicles, mechanical issues can play a role. Were the headlights functioning properly? Did the brakes respond as expected? If the driver tried to stop but the vehicle didn’t react in time, that could indicate a mechanical failure that contributed to the crash. Unfortunately, these possibilities are often overlooked unless someone makes a point to investigate them before the vehicle is repaired.
Finally, has all available electronic data been collected? While older vehicles may not store as much crash data as newer models, the Grand Marquis may still have a black box that contains information about speed, braking, and steering input before impact. If retrieved, this data could help determine whether the driver had time to react or if the pedestrian entered the roadway unexpectedly. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras could also provide additional context. Additionally, cell phone records should be reviewed to determine whether distraction played a role in the moments leading up to the crash.
At the end of the day, a person suffered serious injuries, and the least that can be done is to ensure a full and fair investigation that leaves no stone unturned. The only way to truly understand what happened—and to provide real answers to those affected—is by asking the right questions and ensuring that every possible piece of evidence is examined.
