Houston, TX — December 15, 2024, Estefany Montero was injured in a car accident at about 1:45 a.m. on Interstate 69/Southwest Freeway.

A preliminary accident report indicates that a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox and a 2013 Toyota RAV4 collided while heading east near Bellaire Boulevard.

Estefany Arlin Montero, 27, a passenger in the Toyota, was seriously injured in the crash, according to the report.

The drivers of both vehicles suffered minor injuries, while two other passengers in the Toyota were listed as possibly injured, the report states.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a serious injury results from a two-vehicle collision, especially on a major highway like Interstate 69, it’s essential to go beyond surface-level assumptions and focus on the three questions that must guide any meaningful crash investigation: Did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Has anyone looked into whether a vehicle defect might have contributed? And has all the electronic data from the vehicles been collected?

At 1:45 a.m., visibility is limited, traffic dynamics can be unpredictable and fatigue or distraction are more likely to be factors. That’s why a thorough investigation should include more than just documenting the positions of the vehicles. It should involve an in-depth reconstruction of the sequence of events: who changed lanes, who braked, what speeds were involved and whether roadway conditions played a role. In a crash where multiple occupants are injured, it’s vital to understand exactly how the vehicles interacted and what contributed to the severity of the outcome. But that level of detail requires time, expertise and resources that not every investigation can afford.

The next question, whether a vehicle defect played a role, is especially relevant given the vehicles involved. Both the Chevrolet Equinox and the Toyota RAV4 have seen recalls over the years for issues ranging from faulty airbag deployment to stability control and braking problems. If either vehicle experienced a mechanical failure, such as unintended acceleration, steering issues or loss of control, that could shift how this crash is understood. But unless the vehicles are preserved and subjected to a detailed forensic inspection, these contributing factors may be missed entirely.

Finally, electronic data from both vehicles can offer objective insights that aren’t always apparent from witness statements or physical evidence. The engine control modules in both the Equinox and the RAV4 are capable of recording key information: speed, braking input, steering angle and throttle application just before and during the crash. That data can clarify whether either driver made evasive maneuvers, attempted to brake or experienced a mechanical issue. GPS and infotainment systems may also store location and movement data, which can help verify the timeline and sequence of events. And if either vehicle was equipped with a dashcam or if nearby surveillance footage exists, that could provide valuable visual context.

When someone suffers serious injuries, it’s not enough to rely on a general description of what happened. The only way to fully understand the cause of the crash — and whether it could have been prevented — is to ensure that all potential factors are explored. That means securing the vehicles, collecting the data and asking the right questions before the evidence disappears. Only then can those affected by the crash begin to get the answers they deserve.