Midland County, TX — January 12, 2025, one person was injured following a wrong-way car accident at approximately 3:00 a.m. along Interstate Highway 20.

According to authorities, a man was traveling in an eastbound Cadillac SRX in the westbound lanes of I.H. 20 in the vicinity east of Rankin Highway when the accident took place.

Officials indicate that, due to this wrong-way situation, a head-on collision took place between the Cadillac and an oncoming Ford F-250. The man who had been behind the wheel of the Cadillac suffered serious injuries due to the wreck, according to reports. It doesn't appear that anyone else was hurt. Additional details pertaining to this incident—including the identity of the victim—are not available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

Wrong-way accidents are among the most dangerous types of collisions, often leaving people wondering how a driver ended up traveling in the wrong direction. While many assume impairment is the likely cause, my experience handling these cases has shown that other factors—such as unclear signage, poor lighting, or even medical emergencies—can also play a role. Answering a few key questions can help shed light on what happened here.

Did authorities conduct a thorough investigation into why the driver was going the wrong way? While driver error is often blamed, investigators should consider whether roadway design played a role. Were there clear signs indicating the proper direction of travel? Were those signs visible and well-lit? Some stretches of highway have confusing or poorly marked exits, making it easier for drivers to mistakenly enter the wrong lanes.

Has anyone looked into possible mechanical failures or medical conditions that may have contributed? A vehicle malfunction—such as steering failure—or a medical emergency could cause a driver to lose control and unintentionally enter oncoming lanes. Reviewing the driver’s medical history and inspecting the Cadillac for any defects could help clarify whether impairment, distraction, or another issue was at play.

Has all available electronic and surveillance data been reviewed? Highway cameras, nearby businesses, or even other motorists may have captured footage of the incident. Additionally, vehicle data recorders can provide insights into the Cadillac’s speed, braking, and steering inputs leading up to the crash. This kind of evidence can help determine whether this was a mistake or the result of external factors.

Accidents like this, where a wrong-way collision resulted in serious injuries, demand a meticulous investigation to uncover all contributing factors. Addressing these questions helps ensure the incident is fully understood and provides the foundation for any necessary steps to ensure accountability. A thorough investigation is the least that can be done to provide clarity and closure for those affected.