Kountze, TX — May 16, 2025, two women were injured following a four-wheeler accident at approximately 9:15 p.m. along Call Lane.

According to authorities, two women ages 25 and 18 were traveling on a northwest bound four-wheeler in the vicinity of the Call Lane and McNeely Road intersection when the accident took place.

Officials indicate that, for reasons yet to be confirmed, the four-wheeler failed to safely execute a turn. It was consequently involved in a single-vehicle collision in which it overturned. The 25-year-old woman reportedly suffered serious injuries over the course of the accident. The 18-year-old passenger sustained minor injuries, as well, according to reports. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identities of the victims—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

After a crash like this, people often assume a four-wheeler overturned because of rider error or rough terrain. But I’ve learned that even recreational vehicles deserve the same level of scrutiny as a car or truck, especially when someone is seriously hurt. Understanding how a single-vehicle ATV crash happened means asking the kinds of questions that aren’t always obvious—but are absolutely necessary.

First, did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? At 9:15 p.m., lighting can be a real issue, particularly on rural roads like Call Lane near McNeely Road. Was the area lit at all? Was the turn sharp, poorly marked, or obstructed by brush or gravel? Four-wheelers aren’t built for high-speed cornering, and even a minor hazard in the road could upset their balance. Investigators should take a close look at skid marks, terrain conditions, and whether the vehicle showed signs of a last-minute maneuver. That kind of scene analysis is key to understanding whether the crash was a result of poor visibility, tricky road design, or something else entirely.

Next, has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect caused the crash? Four-wheelers like the one involved in this crash have their own set of risks, especially if components like the suspension, tires, or steering systems fail. If the ATV was poorly maintained or had a defect—say, a tire blowout or a broken axle—that could easily cause it to roll over. These machines also rely on proper weight distribution and frame balance, and any issue there could make a routine turn suddenly dangerous. It’s important that the vehicle be thoroughly examined for mechanical or structural problems.

Finally, has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected? While most four-wheelers don’t have onboard computers like passenger vehicles, some newer or sport models may include GPS or performance tracking systems. Even if the ATV doesn’t store that kind of data, surrounding properties might have surveillance cameras, and those could provide valuable footage showing how fast the vehicle was moving or how it entered the turn. Without that kind of visual or performance evidence, it’s hard to say for sure whether the crash was purely environmental, mechanical, or something in between.

In crashes involving recreational vehicles, people often overlook the need for thorough investigation. But the consequences are real, especially when someone walks away with serious injuries. Asking detailed, thoughtful questions is the best way to make sure those involved get the clarity—and accountability—they deserve.

Takeaways:

• Roadway conditions and visibility at the crash site should be closely reviewed, especially on rural roads at night.
• Mechanical and structural failures in four-wheelers—such as tire or suspension issues—must be investigated thoroughly.
• Any available performance data or nearby video footage should be reviewed to understand the vehicle's behavior before the crash.