Callahan County, TX — September 20, 2024, Benita Rodriguez was killed following an 18-wheeler accident that occurred around 7:00 A.M. on Highway 36.

An investigation is underway following an 18-wheeler accident that left one person dead during the morning hours of September 20th. According to official reports, Benita Rodriguez was traveling in the area of Hwy. 36 and Hwy. 283 when for unknown reasons her vehicle drove through an intersection and collided with an 18-wheeler.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that Rodriguez had sustained serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. At this time the accident remains under investigation, and more details of the crash may be released by authorities in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When an accident involves an 18-wheeler and results in the loss of life, it is essential to approach the investigation with a focus on uncovering all contributing factors. Ensuring accountability and a complete understanding of the incident requires addressing three critical questions: Did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Has the possibility of a vehicle defect been examined? Has all relevant electronic data been collected and preserved? These steps are essential for obtaining clear answers and determining what occurred.

The first question focuses on the depth and thoroughness of the investigation conducted by law enforcement and other responding agencies. Initial investigations often prioritize documenting visible evidence, gathering statements, and ensuring public safety. However, questions remain about whether all potential factors were considered. For instance, were environmental or roadway conditions contributing factors? Were there any indications of driver distraction, impairment, or a medical emergency? These issues require a detailed examination, including expert analysis of skid marks, debris patterns, and vehicle positioning, to ensure no important details are overlooked.

The second question involves whether mechanical or design issues in either vehicle might have contributed to the collision. Mechanical failures such as brake malfunctions, accelerator issues, or steering defects can cause a vehicle to behave unpredictably. In cases involving commercial vehicles, maintenance records should be scrutinized to determine if the 18-wheeler was properly maintained and inspected. Defects in safety features or equipment, such as underride guards or electronic braking systems, could also impact the severity of a collision. An inspection by qualified experts is often necessary to uncover these possibilities, as such issues may not be immediately apparent.

The third and final question is whether all available electronic data has been preserved. Modern vehicles, including commercial trucks, are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that provide crucial information about a vehicle’s actions leading up to a collision. Passenger vehicles often store data on speed, braking, and steering inputs, while 18-wheelers’ ECMs can reveal information about vehicle speed, braking, throttle usage, and engine performance. Securing this data as quickly as possible is critical, as it can be lost or overwritten if not preserved promptly. This information can play a vital role in piecing together the events leading to the crash.

Answering these three questions requires a coordinated effort involving legal, technical, and investigative expertise. While the work of authorities forms a starting point, independent investigations can often reveal additional evidence that ensures all aspects of the case are properly addressed.

In conclusion, investigating incidents of this nature requires a methodical approach guided by these three key questions. A thorough review of the authorities’ work, a detailed examination of the vehicles for potential defects, and the preservation and analysis of electronic data are essential steps to uncover the truth. Each of these actions helps ensure that all factors are considered and provides a clearer path toward accountability and understanding.