Fort Worth, TX — November 16, 2024, two people were injured in a single-vehicle accident at about 1 a.m. on Keller Hicks Road.

A preliminary accident report indicates that a 2018 Kia Forte was headed west near Riverside Drive when it crashed into a tree and some landscaping.

The driver, a 28-year-old Keller woman whose name has not been made public, and an 8-year-old girl suffered suspected serious injuries in the crash, according to authorities.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I see a report like this, my first thought is that I hope those injured get the answers they need about what caused this crash. A single-vehicle accident may seem straightforward, but in my experience, crashes like this often require a deeper investigation. To truly understand what happened, three critical questions must be asked.

First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? A proper investigation should include accident reconstruction, an analysis of roadway conditions and a review of any potential contributing factors like visibility, weather or obstacles in the roadway. Since this crash happened late at night, poor lighting or unexpected hazards could have played a role. Did authorities check for nearby surveillance cameras or speak with any potential witnesses? Understanding the full circumstances of the crash is essential to providing a clear picture of what happened.

Second, has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect contributed to the crash? The Kia Forte is equipped with modern safety and stability control systems, but if a mechanical issue — such as brake failure, steering malfunctions or an electronic stability control failure — occurred, it could have caused the vehicle to lose control. Unfortunately, police investigations rarely include a forensic vehicle inspection, meaning that defects often go unnoticed unless someone specifically preserves the vehicle for expert analysis. If the vehicle is repaired or scrapped before it can be examined, crucial evidence could be lost.

Third, has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected? The Kia Forte’s engine control module (ECM) may contain key data, such as speed, braking inputs and steering movements leading up to the crash. Additionally, nearby traffic or security cameras, dashcams or even cell phone data could provide further context. Without this information, investigators may be left with only partial details, making it harder to fully explain what caused the crash.

At the end of the day, crashes like this leave those involved with pressing questions. The least we can do is ensure that every effort is made to uncover the full truth.