Recent Changes to Texas Traffic Laws - San Antonio Car Accident Attorneys

Lawmakers enact traffic laws to increase public safety, and they alter and expand them in response to traffic hazards and driver behavior. Safe drivers typically obey traffic rules to avoid penalties and accidents. While a vehicle operator’s lawyer can present many arguments to prove their client’s innocence, ignorance of the law is no excuse in San Antonio. That is why it is important to stay informed about recent changes to Texas traffic laws.

The top Texas personal injury attorneys at Carabin Shaw have decades of experience handling personal injury laws, and they stay up-to-date with the traffic laws that help their clients get compensation for auto accident injuries. Our team can help you on your legal journey by presenting a case that proves the at-fault party in your accident broke the law. Call our toll-free number at 800-862-1260 to schedule a free consultation. We have English- AND Spanish-speaking staff available to take your call 24/7.

In 2023, TxDOT began implementing variable speed limits. This allows traffic managers to adjust speed limits according to road conditions to increase safety. Illuminated speed limit signs communicate to drivers that speed limits are higher or lower to reduce the severity and number of crashes. Seeing these signs alerts drivers to safe driving speeds, so they can exercise caution and avoid a car wreck in San Antonio, Texas.

Speed is a contributing factor in many car accidents. The court will hold a speeding defendant accountable because of negligence. However, Texas is a comparative negligence state, which means that the court may reduce the plaintiff’s compensation if the plaintiff was driving at excessive speeds. A skilled San Antonio car accident lawyer ensures that injured victims get the compensation they deserve.

Roadside workers, such as emergency responders and tow truck operators, are at heightened risk of injury from traffic accidents. As a result of numerous deaths, Texas enacted the “Move Over or Slow Down” campaign. Since 2003, drivers approaching roadside workers must move over one lane or reduce their speed to 20 mph below the speed limit. In 2023, the state increased the penalties for breaking this law. Offenders now face fines of up to $4,000 and possible jail time if they injure a roadside worker.

If you are a roadside worker who has suffered injuries due to an accident, you may hire a lawyer and sue for the following damages in a personal injury lawsuit:

• Economic damages: Medical bills, repair bills, lost income
• Noneconomic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional anguish, disability

The court may award compensation for any damages related to the accident, and it may add punitive damages in cases of gross negligence where the defendant had a disregard for Texas traffic laws.

Annual vehicle safety inspections no longer burden most Texas drivers in 2025, as the Texas governor has eliminated the requirement. Instead, they’ll pay an extra fee with their vehicle registration.

Although drivers will no longer have to prove that their vehicle has safety features, such as seat belts, tail lights, and working brakes, they will still be liable for damages if their sub-optimal vehicle causes an accident. An attorney will argue that a driver is negligent if they are operating a vehicle without a reasonable effort to maintain safety on the road.

Auto accident attorneys in San Antonio TX have dealt with many cases involving reckless drivers, but few activities are more reckless than illegal street racing. In August 2023, the state enhanced illegal street racing laws, so prosecutors could deliver stronger consequences to participants, and police could impound involved vehicles regardless of property damage or personal injury.

If you were in a recent car accident in Central Texas that resulted in your injury, Carabin Shaw can help you seek compensation for your damages. Our client reviews prove that we are compassionate regarding your circumstances. In addition, we offer our services on a contingency-fee basis, so you don’t have to worry about legal fees.

Call Carabin Shaw today at 800-862-1260 to schedule your free initial consultation!

For more information:

• Statutes Capitol Texas
• DoT Texas
• Office of the Texas Governor