Corpus Christi, TX — February 14, 2025, Cody Bridges was injured as the result of a truck accident that happened around 1:10 a.m. along Interstate 37.

Preliminary information about the crash says that it took place off Callicoatte Road along westbound lanes of the interstate.

According to officials, 24-year-old Cody Bridges was in a Jeep Cherokee traveling along I-37. Due to factors not confirmed, the Jeep reportedly crashed into the back of a tractor-trailer. Due to this, Cody Bridges reportedly had serious injuries.

Investigators did not report any other injuries, and additional details about the accident are unavailable.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a vehicle crashes into the back of a tractor-trailer in the early hours of the morning, it’s easy to assume the driver of the smaller vehicle must have made a mistake. But crashes like this—especially involving a commercial truck—often involve more than just one person’s actions. There are usually several layers to examine before the full story comes into focus.

A rear-end collision may point to inattention or speed on the part of the trailing vehicle, but that’s not the only explanation worth considering. Visibility, lighting conditions, and the position of the truck all matter—particularly at 1:10 in the morning when natural light is gone and drivers rely on headlights and reflective markings to gauge the road ahead. Was the trailer clearly visible? Were its lights functioning? Was it moving slowly or stopped altogether? These details could change how investigators view the cause of the crash.

Then there’s the condition of the truck itself. Were its brakes working properly? Was it pulled partially into the lane, or had it slowed for traffic or a turn? Was the vehicle properly maintained and up to federal safety standards? Questions like these are why black box (ECM) data and dash cams can be so valuable in commercial truck cases. They provide facts, not assumptions, and those facts can tell a very different story than what's apparent at first glance.

Until a thorough investigation is complete, it’s too early to draw conclusions about what caused this crash or who might be responsible. But we can say this: when a passenger vehicle and a commercial truck collide, understanding the full chain of events takes more than a glance at the scene. It takes a deliberate effort to uncover what really happened.

Key Takeaways

• A rear-end collision with a commercial truck doesn't automatically mean the trailing driver is at fault.
• Visibility, lighting, and the truck’s position on the road are key factors, especially in early-morning conditions.
• ECM data, dash cam footage, and truck maintenance records are crucial to understanding the full picture.
• Trucking company policies, scheduling pressures, and driver readiness should all be part of the investigation.
• Real accountability requires a deeper look at all the contributing factors—not just what appears obvious.