UPDATE (February 21, 2025): Recent reports have been released which clarify a couple of details pertaining to this crash. According to these reports, the accident took place at approximately 2:15 p.m. on Farm to Market 3277 (Scenic Loop) just northeast of the Commodore Drive intersection. No additional information is currently available. Investigations continue.

Polk County, TX — January 6, 2025, Dana Bowman was killed following a car accident at some point in the afternoon along Scenic Loop.

According to authorities, 54-year-old Dana Bowman was traveling in a Hyundai Elantra on Scenic Loop when the accident took place.

The cause of the accident remains unclear. Officials indicate that, for as yet unknown reasons, the Hyundai failed to safely maintain its lane of travel. It reportedly veered left of center, entering the oncoming lane of traffic. There, it was involved in a collision with a Toyota Rav4.

Bowman suffered critical injuries as a result of the wreck, according to reports; she was transported to a local medical facility by EMS in order to receive necessary treatment. However, she was ultimately unable to overcome the severity of her injuries, having later been declared deceased. Additional details pertaining to this incident are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When head-on collisions like this occur, particularly those involving a fatality, it is essential to conduct a thorough investigation to determine how and why the crash happened. Early reports suggest the Hyundai veered into the oncoming lane, leading to a collision with a Toyota Rav-4, but many critical details remain unclear. To uncover the full story, three key questions must guide the inquiry.

First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Head-on collisions often require meticulous analysis of the crash scene to reconstruct the sequence of events. Investigators should examine physical evidence such as tire marks, debris, and the final positions of both vehicles to understand why the Hyundai crossed the center line. Witness statements and any available surveillance or dashcam footage could provide additional context about the actions of both drivers leading up to the crash, including whether speed, distraction, or other external factors played a role.

Second, has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect might have contributed to the crash? Mechanical issues such as brake failures, steering malfunctions, or tire blowouts could cause a vehicle to lose control and veer into an oncoming lane. A forensic examination of the Hyundai is critical to identify or rule out such issues. Additionally, examining the Toyota Rav-4 for the performance of its safety systems, such as airbags, may clarify whether they functioned as intended to mitigate the severity of the crash.

Finally, has all relevant electronic data been collected? Modern vehicles like the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Rav-4 are equipped with event data recorders (EDRs) that can provide vital insights into speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash. This data can help determine whether the Hyundai’s movements were consistent with driver input or indicative of a mechanical failure. Nearby surveillance cameras or dashcams might also capture the moments leading up to the collision, offering further clarity. Promptly securing this evidence is critical to preserving important information.

Accidents involving vehicles crossing into oncoming traffic are often more complex than they initially appear, requiring detailed investigation to uncover all contributing factors. By focusing on the thoroughness of the inquiry, exploring potential mechanical issues, and gathering all available data, investigators can provide a clearer understanding of what happened. For the loved ones of Dana Bowman and for others affected by this accident, obtaining these answers is a necessary step toward understanding and closure. A comprehensive investigation is the least that can be done to ensure every possible factor is carefully examined.

Could an auto defect have caused this accident?

Most people would be surprised to learn how often an automotive defect plays a role in an accident. Sometimes, the defect causes the accident, and sometimes, it merely makes the injuries worse. Below is a list of the known issues that federal regulators have drawn the public’s attention to.

Also, note that some issues are not specific to a make and model but are problems that generally affect the automotive industry and warrant investigation.

Most commonly reported issues: Toyota RAV4*

Passenger Air Bag

Recall #23V865000

Skid Control ECU

Recall #22V239000

Fuel Pump

Recall #20V682000

Brake Booster Pump

Recall #19V544000

ABS

Recall #16V198000

Electric Power Steering (EPS)

Recall #15V144000

*There is no way to know whether a vehicle defect contributed to a crash, injury, or death without an examination of the vehicle by a qualified expert. Potential vehicle issues cited here are based upon recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a part of the United States Department of Transportation.