San Antonio, TX (September 8, 2026) – A man has died after his car reportedly collided with a crane truck on Interstate 35 on the city’s South Side. The crash happened Sunday evening, September 6, according to authorities.
Authorities said the crash occurred just before 5:30 p.m. near Division Avenue on I-35. A man driving a Kia Forte reportedly struck the driver’s side of the crane truck, according to police.
The driver was taken to a hospital in critical condition, authorities said. He later died from his injuries, according to police.
The cause of the crash has not been determined, authorities said. The investigation remains ongoing, and no further details have been released.
Our thoughts are with the family and loved ones of the person who died.
When Crashes Involving Commercial Trucks Are Most Likely
Crashes between passenger vehicles and large work trucks or commercial vehicles often cluster around the evening commute, when highway traffic is heaviest, and drivers are more likely to be fatigued or distracted after a full day. Visibility can also shift quickly in early evening hours as sunlight fades, making it harder to judge the speed and position of larger, slower-moving vehicles.
Work trucks, such as crane trucks, may also move differently from typical highway traffic, sometimes traveling at reduced speeds or stopping briefly for job-related tasks. That mismatch in speed can catch following or merging drivers off guard, especially during high-traffic periods.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated 153,452 people were injured in traffic crashes involving large trucks in 2023. Many of these crashes happen on highways during periods of dense traffic flow, underscoring how ordinary driving conditions can quickly turn dangerous when a passenger vehicle and a large truck share the same lane space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a crash involving a commercial truck?
Call 911, move to safety if possible, and seek medical evaluation even if injuries aren’t immediately obvious. Document the scene with photos if you’re able, and wait for the police to file an official report.
Why do trucks need so much distance to stop?
Large trucks and work vehicles carry significant weight and often have longer stopping distances than passenger cars, especially when loaded with equipment. This means less time to react to sudden slowdowns or stopped traffic ahead.
What makes crashes with large trucks more severe than typical car accidents?
The size and weight difference between a passenger car and a commercial or work truck often results in more serious injuries for occupants of the smaller vehicle, regardless of who caused the crash.
What are truck blind spots, and why do they matter?
Large trucks have significant blind spots along the sides, front, and rear, making it difficult for drivers to see nearby vehicles. Passing quickly and avoiding lingering alongside a truck can reduce the risk of not being seen.
What to Do After a Truck Crash in San Antonio, Texas
If you’re involved in a crash with a work truck or commercial vehicle in San Antonio, prioritize safety: move away from traffic if you can and call emergency services right away. Even minor-seeming collisions can cause injuries that aren’t immediately apparent, so a prompt medical evaluation is important.
Once safety and health needs are addressed, request a copy of the police report and keep records of any medical care you receive. Following up with your insurance provider and noting details while they’re fresh can help ensure accuracy as the investigation proceeds.