Borger, TX — January 6, 2025, Steven Burse was injured in a hit-and-run accident at about 7:15 a.m. on North Florida Street.

Authorities said Steven Burse, 54, was riding a bicycle in the 900 block of North Florida Street when he was hit by an unknown vehicle. He was wearing a high visibility vest at the time of the crash.

Steven Burse was flown to an area hospital after the crash, according to authorities. His injuries are not thought to be life-threatening.

Authorities said Steven Burse told police that he believes he was hit by a white vehicle.

The accident is still being investigated.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When analyzing a hit-and-run accident like this, several critical questions must be addressed to fully understand what happened and identify the driver responsible. The circumstances surrounding this crash highlight the need for a thorough investigation. To pursue clarity, it’s essential to focus on three key areas: the thoroughness of the investigation, the possibility of a vehicle defect contributing to the incident and the collection of electronic and physical evidence to identify the vehicle and driver.

First, the scope of the investigation must include a detailed analysis of the crash site and surrounding area. The victim's report that he was hit by a white vehicle is a crucial lead, but additional evidence is needed to confirm the description and pinpoint the responsible party. Investigators should examine the roadway for debris from the collision, such as paint chips or broken vehicle parts, that could provide information about the make and model of the vehicle involved. Additionally, road and lighting conditions should be reviewed to determine whether visibility may have played a role in the driver’s failure to avoid the cyclist, despite his high-visibility vest.

Second, the possibility of a vehicle defect should not be overlooked. Even if the crash was caused by driver behavior, a mechanical failure in the vehicle, such as a braking issue or steering malfunction, could have contributed to the incident. This aspect of the investigation can only proceed if the vehicle is identified and preserved for inspection. Understanding whether any mechanical issues affected the driver’s ability to avoid the collision is an important part of determining all contributing factors.

Finally, collecting and preserving electronic and physical evidence is essential to identifying the vehicle and reconstructing the events of the crash. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, residences, or traffic cameras could provide a visual record of the incident or capture the suspect vehicle fleeing the scene. Additionally, once the vehicle is located, its engine control module (ECM) can offer data on speed, braking, and other inputs that might help clarify the driver’s actions leading up to the collision. Promptly gathering this evidence is critical to ensuring it is not lost.

Hit-and-run accidents often leave victims and their families searching for accountability and answers. By addressing these three areas, authorities can work to identify the responsible party and determine all contributing factors. This approach ensures that those affected receive the clarity they deserve while also highlighting the importance of accountability and safety for all road users.