Walker County, TX — November 8, 2024, two people were injured in a car accident at about 2 a.m. on southbound Interstate 45 near New Waverly.

A preliminary accident report indicates a 2014 Toyota Corolla crashed into the back end of a 2011 Dodge Ram 2500.

The Toyota driver, a 21-year-old woman from Madisonville, and her 20-year-old passenger suffered suspected serious injuries in the crash, according to authorities. Their names have not been made public at this point.

The 64-year-old man who was driving the Dodge was not injured, the report states.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the Walker County crash.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Anytime a serious crash occurs, it’s important to take a step back and ensure that all the right questions are being asked. While initial reports provide a general description of the incident, they often leave out critical details that could explain why the crash happened in the first place. That’s why it’s essential to focus on three key questions to ensure a thorough investigation.

The first question is whether authorities conducted a detailed investigation. Law enforcement agencies do their best, but their resources, training and time constraints can impact how deeply they examine a crash. Reports indicate that a Toyota Corolla rear-ended a Dodge Ram on I-45, but that alone doesn’t tell the full story. Was the Dodge moving at normal highway speeds, or had it slowed or stopped unexpectedly? Were there any visibility issues, such as poor lighting or missing reflectors on the truck? Did authorities gather witness statements, check for surveillance footage or inspect road conditions? A complete investigation should explore all possible contributing factors rather than relying on surface-level explanations.

The next question is whether anyone has considered the possibility of a vehicle defect. While rear-end collisions are often attributed to driver inattention, mechanical failures — such as brake malfunctions, electrical issues or steering problems — could also play a role. The Toyota Corolla, being more than a decade old, may have had worn-out components that affected its ability to stop in time. Similarly, the Dodge Ram should be examined to determine whether its brake lights, taillights or other safety features were functioning properly. Preserving both vehicles for forensic examination is crucial before they are repaired or scrapped.

The third question is whether all available electronic data has been collected. Modern vehicles store valuable crash-related information in their engine control modules (ECMs), which can reveal speed, braking and steering input before impact. Additionally, given that this crash happened on a major highway, nearby traffic cameras or dashcam footage may provide further insight into what happened. If distraction is a concern, phone records could also be relevant. Securing this data quickly is essential, as electronic evidence can be lost or overwritten over time.

When a crash results in serious injuries, those affected deserve clear answers about what happened. A full investigation — one that considers all possible factors and preserves key evidence — ensures that nothing is overlooked and that the true cause of the crash comes to light.