Five months after a tragic two-vehicle collision claimed the life of a 71-year-old woman on Alamo Ranch Parkway in west Bexar County, concerns about speeding and traffic safety continue to plague the area. The incident, which occurred on April 23, 2025, involved a driver who was allegedly traveling at over 100 miles per hour.
The Fatal Incident
According to reports, Patricia Browning, 71, died from injuries sustained in the crash. The other driver, 20-year-old Richard Aron Gonzales, was arrested and charged with manslaughter. Witnesses at the scene recalled the horrific nature of the accident, emphasizing the urgent need for preventative measures to curb reckless driving.
Community Concerns
Local residents and employees of nearby businesses have voiced ongoing anxieties about speeding on Alamo Ranch Parkway. Jacob Sanchez, who works at a local car wash, witnessed the aftermath of the fatal crash and expressed frustration that little has changed since then. “I still see cars flying down this road,” Sanchez stated, highlighting a persistent disregard for traffic laws and speed limits.
Zonia Abel, an employee at a nearby gym, echoed these concerns, noting that speeding has seemingly worsened with the area’s rapid growth. “There are a lot of people that just race up and down the street. It’s a little out of control now, especially with all the growth that we’re having in the area,” Abel explained.
Infrastructure Developments
In response to growing traffic congestion, the Bexar County Public Works Department, in collaboration with the Alamo Regional Mobility Authority (RMA), has been conducting a study to find solutions. One planned improvement is the installation of an overpass for eastbound drivers on Alamo Ranch Parkway near Westwood Loop, complementing a recently completed overpass on the westbound side. The RMA is also developing an overall design for Alamo Ranch Parkway, which may include additional overpasses.
However, some locals believe that infrastructure changes alone may not be sufficient to address the issue of speeding. Sanchez and Abel both suggested that adding more traffic lights would be a more effective deterrent.
Increased Enforcement
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) has stated that it has increased traffic enforcement efforts on Alamo Ranch Parkway since the fatal crash. In a statement, the BCSO noted that it has implemented targeted patrols by its motorcycle unit and partnered with TxDOT through a grant program to enhance coverage. The aim is to provide a visible deterrent to reduce speeding, reckless driving, and prevent crashes.
Ongoing Risks
Despite these efforts, the Department of Public Safety’s records indicate that there have been at least five additional crashes in the area since Browning’s death. While none of these crashes resulted in serious injuries, they underscore the continued risk posed by speeding drivers on Alamo Ranch Parkway.
Legal Recourse for Victims of Speeding
When a driver’s negligence, such as speeding, results in a collision, they may be liable for damages. Victims and their families can pursue legal action to recover compensation for losses such as:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and necessary medical equipment.
- Lost Income: Compensation for lost wages, salaries, and potential future earnings due to the injuries sustained.
- Pain and Suffering: Financial recovery for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for vehicle repairs or replacement and any other damaged property.
- Wrongful Death: In cases of fatal accidents, family members may pursue a wrongful death claim to cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.
Commentary from Gosuits Bexar County, Texas Personal Injury Attorney
This tragic situation in Bexar County highlights the devastating consequences of speeding and reckless driving. While infrastructure improvements and increased law enforcement presence are important steps, it’s crucial for drivers to understand their responsibility to drive safely and respect traffic laws.
When drivers choose to speed, they put everyone at risk. The aftermath of a serious accident involves not only physical and emotional trauma but also significant financial burdens. Injured parties should be fully informed of their rights and options for pursuing rightful compensation from all liable parties.
