1 Injured in Car Accident on E Belknap Street in Haltom City, TX

Haltom City, TX — December 9, 2024, one person was injured in a hit-and-run car accident on East Belknap Street.

Authorities said a car struck a person using a wheelchair in the 4000 block of East Belknap Street/U.S. Route 377, near where it intersects with Harper Street and Parrish Road.

The driver fled the scene, according to authorities, while the person who was hit was hospitalized with serious injuries.

Authorities reportedly have identified the vehicle suspected to be involved in the hit-and-run. They are working to identify the driver.

No further details have been released at this time.

The crash remains under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

In cases like this, the first priority is usually finding the hit-and-run driver, but the crash itself still needs to be investigated. In my opinion, these are the key questions that must be addressed by investigators.

1. Did the authorities thoroughly investigate the crash?

This case requires a diligent investigation to hold the responsible driver accountable and to uncover the circumstances leading to the collision. Key considerations include:

• Driver identification: Authorities have reportedly identified the vehicle suspected in the hit-and-run. Ensuring the driver is located and held accountable is critical for justice.
• Crash site analysis: This intersection should be evaluated for safety. Were there crosswalks, proper lighting or other accessibility accommodations for pedestrians or wheelchair users?
• Witness testimony and surveillance footage: Identifying witnesses or reviewing security camera footage from nearby businesses can provide details about the driver’s actions before and after the crash.

2. Has anyone looked into the possibility that a vehicle defect caused the crash?

While driver behavior is likely central to this case, investigators should not overlook potential mechanical or system issues with the suspect vehicle:

• Brake or steering failures: If the driver claims a mechanical problem prevented the vehicle from stopping, it must be inspected to confirm or rule out this explanation.
• Lighting or visibility issues: Investigators should confirm whether the suspect vehicle’s headlights or other visibility systems were functioning properly.
• ADAS functionality: If the vehicle is equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems, such as pedestrian detection, their performance should be evaluated to determine whether they were active and functioning correctly.

3. Has all the electronic data relating to the crash been collected?

Modern vehicles often retain electronic data that could clarify the events leading up to the collision. In this case, investigators should:

• Retrieve Engine Control Module data: This may show the vehicle’s speed, braking and steering actions leading up to the impact.
• Analyze surveillance data from nearby traffic systems: If available, this could help establish the timeline and behavior of the driver.
• Inspect infotainment and telematics data: This may reveal whether the driver was distracted by phone use or other in-car systems.
• Cell phones: Data from phones in the area could help shed light on what was going on before the crash.

I hope investigators will complete a thorough investigation of this crash, the victim and the community at large deserves answers about what happened.