Kirbyville, TX — January 24, 2025, Two people were injured following a car accident that occurred at around 4:20 A.M. on Highway 96.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that left two people injured during the early morning hours of January 24th and according to official reports, the single vehicle accident occurred on Hwy. 96 close to CR 482 with two occupants inside.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that the vehicle had struck a culvert and was on fire and that the driver had sustained moderate injuries, while the passenger reportedly suffered critical injuries. Both individuals were transported to the hospital where their conditions remain unknown at this time, and it remains unclear what caused the collision.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I hear about a single-vehicle crash like this, my focus immediately turns to ensuring that all the necessary questions are being asked to determine exactly what happened. Crashes like this can stem from a variety of causes, some of which may not be immediately apparent. To uncover the truth, it’s essential to address three key questions: Did the authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Has anyone considered the possibility of a vehicle defect? And has all the electronic data related to the crash been collected?

The first question involves the depth and quality of the authorities’ investigation. In single-vehicle crashes, investigators must thoroughly examine the scene, including road conditions, signage, visibility, and other external factors that could have contributed to the crash. Additionally, documenting skid marks, impact points, and the surrounding environment is crucial to reconstructing the events leading up to the incident. If witnesses or surveillance footage from nearby areas are available, they should also be reviewed to provide further context. A complete investigation ensures no potential contributing factor is overlooked.

The second question asks whether a vehicle defect could have played a role. Mechanical issues such as brake failure, steering malfunctions, or tire defects are known to cause single-vehicle accidents but are often underexplored. These issues require a detailed inspection of the vehicle to uncover. Unfortunately, if the vehicle is quickly removed from the scene and not preserved for examination, the opportunity to identify a defect may be lost. This is why it’s critical to secure the vehicle and conduct a forensic evaluation as part of the investigative process.

Finally, has all electronic data from the vehicle and surrounding environment been collected? Most modern vehicles are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) that store critical data about the vehicle’s operations leading up to a crash. This includes information on speed, braking, steering input, and throttle position. Additionally, nearby surveillance footage, cell phone records, and even recordings from dashboard cameras can provide valuable evidence about what occurred. Collecting and preserving this data as soon as possible is essential, as it can be lost or overwritten if not promptly secured.

By addressing these three questions, we can work toward uncovering the full story behind the crash. For those affected, understanding the cause is not just about assigning responsibility but also about finding clarity and ensuring that all factors are identified. As a community, we have a shared responsibility to make sure that no piece of evidence is overlooked and that everyone involved has access to the answers they need to move forward.