Ellis County, TX — May 23, 2024, one person was killed and six others were injured in a truck accident at approximately 4:45 p.m. along I.H. 35E.
According to authorities, the accident took place in the southbound lanes of Interstate Highway 35E at the Farm to Market 308 bridge.
The weather and road conditions in the area at the time were reportedly raining and wet with hail. Several vehicles had come to a stop beneath the bridge in order to take shelter from the conditions. Some were stopped on the right and left shoulders, while others were stopped in the right-most active lane of the highway.
A southbound vehicle of unknown make or model which had a trailer in tow had been traveling in the right lane. It reportedly swerved to the left in an attempt to avoid a collision with the vehicles which had stopped beneath the bridge in that lane. This caused a Freightliner truck and trailer which had been traveling in the middle lane to swerve, as well, in order to avoid a wreck. However, in swerving to the left, the Freightliner struck the right side of another truck and trailer, causing that vehicle to swerve into the left shoulder where it rear-ended a stationary Honda Odyssey minivan occupied by six people. The minivan was then pushed forward into the rear-end of a stationary Lexus.
A 69-year-old man from the minivan suffered fatal injuries due to the wreck. A 63-year-old woman, also from the minivan, sustained serious injuries, while a 43-year-old man, a 3-year-old girl, a 3-year-old boy, a 37-year-old woman—all of whom had been in the minivan—and a 69-year-old woman from the Lexus each incurred moderate injuries, as well, according to reports. All six injured victims were transported to local medical facilities by EMS in order to receive necessary treatment. The unknown vehicle and trailer reportedly left the scene without stopping. No additional details are available at this point in time. The investigation is currently ongoing.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
When people hear about crashes like this one, it’s easy for them to assume they are a result of simple driver error. However, in my experience, accidents involving multiple vehicles and trucks often require thorough investigations to understand all contributing factors.
In this incident, the chain reaction of collisions was likely influenced by the adverse weather conditions, which made it difficult for drivers to see and react in time to avoid obstacles. Investigators need to consider how the weather played a role and whether the drivers involved were operating their vehicles appropriately for the conditions.
A critical aspect of this accident is the initial swerving maneuver by the unknown vehicle towing a trailer, which set off the series of collisions. This vehicle reportedly left the scene, raising questions about its driver’s responsibility and the legality of their actions. The investigation should focus on identifying this vehicle and its driver to determine their role in causing the crash.
The condition and maintenance of the trucks involved also warrant scrutiny. Regular inspections and proper upkeep are vital for ensuring that commercial vehicles operate safely. Any lapses in this area could indicate negligence on the part of the truck drivers or the companies that own the vehicles. It’s important to assess whether the Freightliner and the other trucks involved were in proper working order and if the drivers adhered to safety protocols.
Additionally, the trucking companies responsible for the vehicles involved in the collision may share in the responsibility for the accident. If these companies failed to enforce safety protocols, properly train their drivers, or ensure that their vehicles were in good working order, they could be held accountable for their role in the crash.
Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the truth and provide answers to those affected by the crash. Even if it requires conducting an independent investigation to obtain vital evidence, it is crucial to consider every factor to ensure that those impacted by the crash receive the clarity and closure they deserve.
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