San Antonio Electric Vehicle Accident Lawyers Here to Get Results
Wyatt Law Firm’s Proven Record in Electric Vehicle Accident Claims
Texas is home to about 100,000 or more electric vehicles (EVs), according to the U.S. Department of Energy. While these vehicles may offer significant environmental benefits and cost savings, they are not immune to accidents. In fact, electric vehicle accidents raise unique concerns that can complicate liability and damages in car accidents. Whether you were involved in a collision with an EV as a pedestrian, cyclist, motorist, or another vehicle, it’s important to understand how these accidents differ from those involving traditional vehicles and the importance of securing experienced legal help to protect your rights.
If you were injured in an accident, contact the San Antonio electric car accident lawyers at Wyatt Law Firm for a free consultation. With over 40 years of experience and more than $1 billion recovered for injured victims of Texas accidents and their families, our legal team has the knowledge, resources, fight, and proven dedication to help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Why Electric Vehicle Accidents Are Different
Although electric vehicles may be better for the environment, they are not necessarily safer than conventional vehicles. EVs introduce new risks that can increase the severity of accidents:
- Quiet Engines. EVs are much quieter than traditional vehicles, which can make it difficult for pedestrians, cyclists, and even other drivers to hear them approaching. This can lead to accidents, particularly with pedestrians and cyclists who may not be aware of the EV’s presence.
- Heavy Weight. The large battery in electric vehicles makes them heavier than conventional cars. In a collision, the weight of the EV can cause more significant damage to the other vehicle, leading to greater injuries for occupants in the lighter vehicle while potentially reducing the severity of injuries for those in the EV
- Battery Fires. Lithium-ion batteries, which power most EVs, pose significant fire hazards. In a crash, the battery may ignite, leading to difficult-to-extinguish fires that can cause severe burns or other life-threatening injuries.
Understanding these risks can help you navigate the complexities of an EV accident claim. Given the unique nature of EV-related accidents, having an experienced lawyer on your side ensures that all these factors are properly addressed when seeking compensation for your injuries.
Common Types of Electric Vehicle Accidents
Electric vehicle accidents can occur in various ways, and while some types of accidents are common to all vehicles, EVs introduce additional challenges that can increase the severity of injuries. Below are some of the most common types of electric vehicle accidents:
- Pedestrian or Bicycle Accidents. Due to their quiet engines, EVs are more likely to strike pedestrians or cyclists, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. The absence of engine noise makes it harder for these vulnerable groups to detect the approaching vehicle.
- Rear-End Accidents. These accidents happen when one vehicle strikes the rear of another. In the case of an EV, the weight difference between the vehicles can make rear-end accidents especially dangerous, causing greater injury to those in the lighter vehicle.
- T-Bone Accidents. A side-impact collision, often called a “T-bone,” occurs when the front or rear of one vehicle collides with the side of another. These accidents can cause severe injuries, especially when the EV is struck at high speed.
- Sideswipe Accidents. A sideswipe occurs when the side of one car brushes against the side of another, often when both vehicles are traveling in the same direction. This type of accident can cause significant damage and injury to the vehicles and their occupants.
- Rollover Accidents. Due to their heavier battery packs, electric vehicles may be more prone to rollovers, especially in high-speed accidents or when the vehicle veers off the road. Rollovers are typically severe and can lead to life-threatening injuries.
- Head-On Collisions. These are among the most dangerous types of accidents, where two vehicles collide directly in opposing directions. Even at moderate speeds, these accidents can cause serious injuries or fatalities for everyone involved.
- Hit and Run Accidents. Hit-and-run accidents occur when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to exchange information. This can make it more difficult to hold the responsible party accountable and recover compensation for your damages.
Each of these accident types presents unique challenges, especially with electric vehicles. Having a skilled attorney can help ensure that you receive the full compensation you deserve, no matter the circumstances of the accident.
Injuries in Electric Vehicle Accidents
While the injuries sustained in electric vehicle accidents are similar to those from traditional vehicle accidents, there are unique factors, such as the risk of battery fires, that can result in more severe injuries. Below are some of the most common injuries associated with EV accidents:
- Head and Brain Injuries. Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and other head injuries are common in high-impact collisions. These injuries can cause long-term health problems, including cognitive difficulties and emotional challenges.
- Whiplash. Whiplash occurs when the neck and head are abruptly jerked back and forth during a collision, often seen in rear-end accidents. This can cause long-lasting neck pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
- Back and Spinal Injuries. Injuries to the spine, such as herniated discs, vertebral fractures, or even paralysis, are common in accidents that involve a significant impact. These injuries often require extensive treatment and rehabilitation.
- Burns. One of the most serious risks in EV accidents is the potential for fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries. Burns from these fires can be extremely painful and often lead to long-term scarring, infections, and even permanent disfigurement.
- Bone Fractures and Internal Injuries. Electric vehicle accidents, especially high-speed collisions, can lead to bone fractures and damage to internal organs. These injuries often require immediate surgery and long-term care to recover.
If you have been involved in an electric vehicle accident, seeking medical attention right away is crucial. This not only helps with your physical recovery but also ensures that your injuries are documented properly, which is vital for building a strong case. Consulting with an experienced attorney will help ensure that you understand your rights and how to proceed with your claim, ultimately giving you the best chance at fair compensation.
After an Electric Vehicle Accident, Put A Fighter On Your Side
After an electric vehicle accident, dealing with insurance companies can be particularly challenging. Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize payouts, and they often pressure accident victims to settle for less than they deserve. Many victims are unaware of the full extent of their injuries, leading to rushed settlements that fail to cover the costs of medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Wyatt Law Firm knows how insurance companies operate and will fight to ensure you are not taken advantage of. We’ll handle the negotiations, gather the necessary evidence, and fight for a fair settlement or court award. We know the tactics insurance companies use, and we are prepared to stand up for you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an electric vehicle accident, contact Wyatt Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll review the details of your case, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Let us fight for the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.