Jackson County, TX — October 31, 2024, an Edna man was injured as the result of a car accident at around 8:48 p.m. along F.M. 822.

Authorities said in preliminary statements that the accident happened near F.M. 822 and Hills Road, northwest of Edna.

According to officials, a 24-year-old Edna man was in a Mercedes-Benz going northbound. For reasons unconfirmed, the vehicle lost control, careened off-road, and crashed into a tree. Due to this, the Edna man sustained serious injuries.

Right now, no additional details about the accident are available.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When it comes to single-vehicle accidents, it can surprise people just how complex things get. It would surprise folks how often I get calls from folks who feel that authorities either moved on without getting the whole story or were more focused on throwing blame around than actually getting evidence. This is why it can be crucial to ask some key questions following a serious crash like this.

The first question to ask is whether authorities had the time, tools, and training necessary to conduct a thorough investigation. Single-vehicle crashes can result from a range of factors, such as road hazards, environmental conditions, or the driver attempting to avoid an obstacle. Did investigators carefully document tire marks, road conditions, or debris? Were visibility, lighting, and weather considered as possible contributors? Without adequate time and resources, investigators may miss important details or jump to conclusions before piecing the full story together.

The second question is whether a vehicle defect might have contributed to the crash. Issues such as brake or steering malfunctions, tire blowouts, or faulty safety systems like seatbelts and airbags can play a significant role in single-vehicle accidents. Identifying these problems requires a forensic inspection of the vehicle, which is something authorities may not always have the tools or expertise to perform. Acting quickly to preserve the vehicle and examine it thoroughly is essential to uncover any potential defects.

Finally, it’s critical to determine whether electronic evidence has been collected and analyzed. Modern vehicles store vital information in their Engine Control Modules (ECMs), including speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash. Additional evidence, such as cellphone activity, GPS data, or video footage from nearby properties, might also provide valuable insights. Securing this information promptly ensures that no critical data is lost.

If authorities are able to answer these questions in a satisfactory manner, it can be a clear sign they've been thorough in their efforts. Otherwise, if their answers come up short, it gives victims and families an opportunity to seek out independent investigators who can pick up the slack. That way, steps can be taken to ensure the whole story will be brought to light.