Lubbock, TX — December 30, 2024, Gregg Vargas was injured following a car accident that occurred at around 10:44 A.M. near the 4300 block of loop 289.

An investigation is underway after a man was struck by an SUV in a parking lot during the morning hours of December 30th. According to official reports, 36-year-old Gregg Vargas was working outside of his parked 18-wheeler when an SUV backed out of a parking space and struck Vargas.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that Vargas sustained serious injuries and transported him to the hospital. At this stage in the investigation there are still details that have not yet been disclosed by the authorities, such as how this could have occurred, as well as the status of Vargas' injuries.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When an accident results in serious injuries, as in this case where a man was struck by an SUV in a parking lot, it raises critical questions about how and why the incident occurred. Parking lot accidents often seem straightforward, but they can involve complex factors that warrant a detailed investigation. Ensuring that all relevant evidence is gathered and analyzed is essential to understanding the circumstances and determining accountability.

Three key questions must guide the investigation: Did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash? Has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect contributed to the incident? And has all the electronic data from the vehicles involved been preserved and reviewed?

First, the depth of the official investigation must be examined. Reports indicate that the SUV backed out of a parking space and struck the man while he was working near his parked 18-wheeler. Key details, such as the speed of the SUV, the visibility conditions in the parking lot, and the actions of the driver, must all be closely analyzed. Were there any obstructions that might have prevented the SUV driver from seeing him? Were there signs or markings in the lot to guide safe navigation? Witness accounts and any available surveillance footage are crucial in reconstructing the events and identifying potential contributing factors.

Second, the possibility of a vehicle defect should be carefully considered. Parking lot maneuvers often involve slow speeds, but even then, mechanical issues such as faulty brakes, malfunctioning backup cameras, or defective sensors can play a role in accidents. A thorough inspection of the SUV can help determine whether a mechanical failure or defect contributed to the driver’s inability to avoid the collision. The investigation should also examine whether the vehicle’s design or maintenance history points to any safety concerns.

Finally, preserving and analyzing electronic data from the vehicles is critical. Many modern SUVs are equipped with electronic control modules (ECMs) and backup camera systems that record valuable data. This data can provide insights into the SUV’s speed, braking, and any warnings or alerts triggered during the incident. Promptly securing and analyzing this information can be essential in determining what happened and whether any mechanical or human factors were at play.

Accidents like this highlight the importance of thorough and impartial investigations. Even in a seemingly routine situation like a parking lot accident, underlying factors can significantly influence outcomes. Gathering and analyzing all available evidence ensures that every contributing factor is accounted for, helping to establish accountability and prevent future incidents.

By addressing these three guiding questions, investigators can work toward uncovering the truth and providing clarity for those involved.