A crash on New Year’s Day in Mesquite has left four people dead and three injured. According to reports, an allegedly intoxicated driver, identified as 35-year-old Basilio Mares Ortiz, struck a group of people changing a flat tire on the side of I-20 at around 1:45 a.m.
The crash resulted in the deaths of Arturo Martinez Gonzalez, 47; Anthony Hernandez, 19; Mario Guajardo De La Paz, 19; and an unnamed 15-year-old male.
When I heard about this crash, I couldn't help but ask myself several key questions. While the authorities arrested and charged the alleged drunk driver with intoxication manslaughter, I believe it’s crucial to examine all aspects of the incident to fully understand what happened and determine whether any additional steps are necessary.
The Investigation Needs to Be Thorough
First and foremost, it’s important to consider whether authorities conducted a thorough investigation of the crash. Investigations into collisions of this nature must include accident reconstruction, securing witness statements, and preserving evidence from the scene.
Given the complexity of multi-fatality incidents, it’s vital that every contributing factor—including environmental conditions, vehicle positions, and traffic patterns—be meticulously documented. The level of detail in these investigations often depends on the resources and training available to the responding agency, which can vary widely.
Where Was the Alleged Drunk Driver Drinking?
If an allegedly intoxicated driver is involved, has anyone investigated whether they were served alcohol at a bar or other establishment before the crash? Texas dram shop laws hold establishments accountable if they overserve obviously intoxicated patrons who are clearly intoxicated and later cause harm to others.
This type of evidence requires a thorough review of the alleged drunk driver’s activities leading up to the crash, such as receipts, surveillance footage, and witness statements from any establishments visited. Investigating these aspects is essential to determine if an additional party may share responsibility for the events leading to the collision.
Collecting Evidence Should Be a Priority
Evidence is a crucial element of any accident case. This accident is no different. All modern vehicles are equipped with engine control modules that can provide critical information, such as the speed, braking activity, and steering inputs of the striking vehicle. Additionally, surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras may also offer details into the events leading up to the crash. Collecting this evidence promptly is crucial, as electronic data can be lost or overwritten if not preserved.
Comprehensive Investigation Is Key to Accidents Like This
I bring all this up because the least those affected by a crash like this deserve is to have all of their questions answered. While the arrest of the alleged drunk driver is a step toward accountability, it’s just that, a first step. Until all relevant questions are answered, there is still more to be done.