Fatal I-65 Crash in Hardin County: Why This Tragedy Could Happen on Schertz Highways and How to Protect Your Rights

The Crash That Changed Everything in an Instant

It happened at 1:27 AM on February 17, 2026. The northbound lanes of Interstate 65 near Lebanon Junction, Kentucky, became the scene of a preventable tragedy. Traffic had slowed due to an earlier crash near the 106-mile marker. In the darkness, a 29-year-old driver from Hodgenville, Drew Cookenmaster, struck the rear of a northbound tractor-trailer. The impact was catastrophic. Cookenmaster was pronounced dead at the scene by the Hardin County Coroner. The truck driver, 52-year-old Shakisha Brewington from Schertz, Texas, walked away uninjured. The northbound lanes of I-65 at the Joe Prather Exit were closed for three hours as investigators reconstructed the accident.

This wasn’t just another traffic accident. It was a collision between an 80,000-pound commercial vehicle and a passenger car—a mismatch that too often ends in tragedy. And while this crash occurred in Kentucky, the same deadly combination of factors exists right here on Schertz highways.

The Anatomy of a Deadly Crash: What Really Happened on I-65

The Chain Reaction of Danger

The Kentucky State Police report reveals a chilling sequence:

1. 1:27 AM – A previous crash near mile marker 106 slows northbound traffic
2. Seconds later – Drew Cookenmaster’s vehicle strikes the rear of Shakisha Brewington’s tractor-trailer
3. Immediate aftermath – Cookenmaster is pronounced dead at the scene
4. 3-hour closure – Investigators work to reconstruct the accident

This timeline tells only part of the story. The real questions remain: Why was traffic slowed? Why didn’t the truck driver see the stopped vehicles? Why did Cookenmaster fail to stop in time? And most importantly—who is truly responsible?

The Truck Driver: Shakisha Brewington from Schertz, Texas

The truck involved was driven by Shakisha Brewington, a 52-year-old resident of Schertz, Texas. While Brewington was not injured, her role in this tragedy demands scrutiny. As a professional truck driver operating a commercial motor vehicle, she was bound by strict federal regulations designed to prevent exactly this type of accident.

Key questions about Brewington’s conduct:

• Was she operating within her hours-of-service limits? (49 CFR § 395)
• Did she conduct a proper pre-trip inspection? (49 CFR § 396.13)
• Were her vehicle’s lights and reflectors functioning properly? (49 CFR § 393.9)
• Did she maintain a safe following distance? (49 CFR § 392.11)
• Was she distracted by a mobile device? (49 CFR § 392.82)

These aren’t just technicalities. They’re federal laws designed to protect lives. When truck drivers violate these regulations, they put everyone on the road at risk.

The Victim: Drew Cookenmaster

Drew Cookenmaster, 29, of Hodgenville, Kentucky, lost his life in this crash. While the article doesn’t provide details about his vehicle or actions, rear-end collisions involving trucks often raise questions about:

• Vehicle speed and stopping distance
• Driver attention and reaction time
• Potential impairment or distraction
• Vehicle maintenance and safety features

In cases like this, it’s crucial to remember that even if the victim shared some responsibility, the trucking company and driver may still bear significant liability—especially if they violated federal safety regulations.

Why This Kentucky Crash Should Alarm Schertz Drivers

The Same Dangers Exist on Schertz Highways

While this crash occurred on I-65 in Kentucky, Schertz drivers face identical risks every day on Texas highways. Consider these parallels:

Schertz’s Trucking Corridors: A Recipe for Disaster?

Schertz sits at the crossroads of some of Texas’s busiest trucking routes:

• I-35: The NAFTA corridor connecting Mexico to Canada, carrying more truck traffic than any other US interstate
• I-10: The Gulf Coast corridor linking Houston to San Antonio and beyond
• FM 3009 and FM 1103: Local routes serving Schertz’s growing distribution centers
• Port of Houston: Just 200 miles away, generating massive truck traffic

These routes see thousands of tractor-trailers daily—many operated by drivers under pressure to meet tight delivery schedules. The same factors that led to the I-65 crash exist right here in Schertz.

The Texas Trucking Industry: By the Numbers

Texas leads the nation in trucking-related fatalities. Consider these sobering statistics:

• 5,100+: Annual truck crash fatalities in the US (NHTSA)
• 76%: Percentage of those killed who were in passenger vehicles
• #1: Texas’s ranking in trucking fatalities (FMCSA)
• 20-25x: How much heavier a fully loaded truck is than a passenger car
• 525 feet: Stopping distance for a truck at 65 mph (nearly two football fields)

These aren’t just numbers. They represent lives changed forever—families shattered, futures stolen. And they could happen anywhere, including on Schertz’s roads.

The Legal Landscape: Who’s Really Responsible?

The Truck Driver’s Liability

Shakisha Brewington, as the driver of the tractor-trailer, bears immediate responsibility. Under federal regulations, truck drivers must:

1. Maintain proper following distance (49 CFR § 392.11)
   – “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent”
   – At highway speeds, this typically means at least 7 seconds of following distance

2. Operate safely in reduced visibility (49 CFR § 392.14)
   – “Extreme caution in the operation of a commercial motor vehicle shall be exercised when hazardous conditions… exist”
   – Nighttime driving qualifies as a hazardous condition requiring extra caution

3. Conduct pre-trip inspections (49 CFR § 396.13)
   – Drivers must inspect their vehicles before each trip
   – Critical items include brakes, lights, tires, and coupling devices

4. Avoid distracted driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
   – Prohibits texting and hand-held phone use while driving
   – Even hands-free devices can create dangerous distractions

5. Comply with hours-of-service regulations (49 CFR § 395)
   – Maximum 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
   – Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
   – 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving

If Brewington violated any of these regulations, she may be personally liable for negligence.

The Trucking Company’s Responsibility

The trucking company that employed Brewington bears even greater responsibility under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior—employers are liable for employees’ actions within the scope of employment.

Potential trucking company violations:

1. Negligent Hiring (49 CFR § 391.11)
   – Did the company properly vet Brewington’s driving record?
   – Were background checks conducted?
   – Was her medical certification valid?

2. Negligent Training (49 CFR § 380)
   – Was Brewington properly trained on night driving?
   – Did she receive training on following distance and stopping distances?
   – Was she trained on proper pre-trip inspections?

3. Negligent Supervision (49 CFR § 390.3)
   – Was the company monitoring Brewington’s hours of service?
   – Were her logs being reviewed for violations?
   – Was she being pressured to meet unrealistic schedules?

4. Negligent Maintenance (49 CFR § 396)
   – Were the truck’s brakes properly maintained?
   – Were all lights and reflectors functioning?
   – Were tires in safe condition?

5. Failure to Monitor Safety Compliance (49 CFR § 385)
   – Did the company have a safety management system?
   – Were violations being tracked and addressed?
   – Was the company’s safety rating satisfactory?

Case Example: In Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021), a Texas jury awarded $730 million against a trucking company for a fatal crash caused by an oversize load. The case established that trucking companies can be held liable for failing to properly supervise their drivers and loads.

The Role of the Earlier Crash

The Kentucky State Police report mentions a previous crash near mile marker 106 that slowed traffic. This raises critical questions:

• Was this earlier crash properly reported?
• Were adequate warning signs or flares deployed?
• Did emergency responders create a safe traffic control zone?
• Was the earlier crash caused by another trucking company’s negligence?

In multi-vehicle crashes, liability can extend to multiple parties. If the earlier crash contributed to the fatal collision, those responsible for the first incident may share liability.

FMCSA Violations That Could Have Caused This Crash

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations exist to prevent exactly this type of tragedy. Let’s examine the most likely violations in this case:

1. Following Too Closely (49 CFR § 392.11)

Regulation: “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and conditions of, the highway.”

Application to This Crash:
– Rear-end collisions are almost always caused by following too closely
– At highway speeds, trucks need significantly more stopping distance than cars
– Nighttime conditions require even greater following distance

Evidence to Look For:
– ECM (black box) data showing following distance
– Dashcam footage (if available)
– Witness statements about the truck’s position before impact
– Skid mark analysis

2. Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR § 395)

Regulation: Drivers are limited to:
– 11 hours driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– Cannot drive beyond 14th consecutive hour on duty
– 30-minute break required after 8 hours of driving

Application to This Crash:
– Nighttime crashes often involve fatigued drivers
– ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data would show if Brewington was over hours
– Dispatch records may reveal pressure to meet tight schedules

Case Example: In a 2023 case in Missouri, a trucking company was found liable for a fatal crash when ELD data showed the driver had been on duty for 16 consecutive hours. The jury awarded $462 million.

3. Inadequate Pre-Trip Inspection (49 CFR § 396.13)

Regulation: “Before driving a motor vehicle, the driver shall be satisfied that the motor vehicle is in safe operating condition.”

Application to This Crash:
– If the truck’s brakes were improperly adjusted, stopping distance would be increased
– Non-functioning lights or reflectors could make the truck harder to see
– Worn tires could contribute to loss of control

Evidence to Look For:
– Driver Vehicle Inspection Reports (DVIRs)
– Maintenance records
– Post-crash inspection of the truck

4. Distracted Driving (49 CFR § 392.82)

Regulation: Prohibits texting and hand-held mobile phone use while driving.

Application to This Crash:
– Cell phone records would show if Brewington was using her phone
– Dispatch communications could reveal distractions
– Witnesses may have seen the driver looking down

5. Improper Lighting (49 CFR § 393.9)

Regulation: Requires proper functioning of:
– Headlamps
– Tail lamps
– Stop lamps
– Clearance lamps
– Identification lamps
– Reflectors

Application to This Crash:
– Nighttime visibility is critical
– Non-functioning lights make trucks harder to see
– Reflectors are essential for nighttime conspicuity

The Evidence That Could Make or Break This Case

In trucking accident cases, evidence disappears quickly. Here’s what investigators should be looking for:

Electronic Evidence

1. Electronic Logging Device (ELD) Data
   – Records driving hours, duty status, GPS location
   – Can prove hours-of-service violations
   – Shows if driver took required breaks

2. Engine Control Module (ECM) / Black Box Data
   – Records speed before impact
   – Shows brake application timing
   – Indicates throttle position
   – May reveal cruise control usage

3. GPS/Telematics Data
   – Shows exact route and timing
   – Can reveal speeding or erratic driving
   – May show previous violations

4. Cell Phone Records
   – Can prove distracted driving
   – Show text messages or calls at time of crash
   – May reveal dispatch communications

5. Dashcam Footage
   – Forward-facing cameras show road conditions
   – Cab-facing cameras show driver behavior
   – Often overwritten within days

Physical Evidence

1. The Truck Itself
   – Brake condition and adjustment
   – Tire wear and pressure
   – Lighting functionality
   – Cargo securement

2. Accident Scene
   – Skid marks showing braking distance
   – Debris field indicating point of impact
   – Road conditions (wet, icy, etc.)
   – Traffic control devices

3. Vehicle Damage
   – Crush patterns showing impact forces
   – Underride damage indicating guard failure
   – Component failures (brakes, steering, etc.)

Documentary Evidence

1. Driver Qualification File
   – Employment application
   – Driving record
   – Medical certification
   – Training records

2. Maintenance Records
   – Pre-trip inspection reports
   – Repair orders
   – Parts replacement history

3. Dispatch Records
   – Trip assignments
   – Delivery schedules
   – Communications with driver

4. Drug and Alcohol Test Results
   – Pre-employment tests
   – Random tests
   – Post-accident tests

Learn more about preserving critical evidence in our video guide:
The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

The Legal Process: What Happens Next?

The Investigation Phase

1. Immediate Actions (0-48 hours)
   – Preservation letters sent to all potentially liable parties
   – Evidence secured before it can be destroyed
   – Witnesses interviewed while memories are fresh

2. First 30 Days
   – Subpoenas issued for ELD, ECM, and cell phone data
   – Driver Qualification File obtained
   – Maintenance records requested
   – Accident reconstruction begins

3. 30-90 Days
   – Expert analysis of electronic data
   – Medical records reviewed
   – Liability determined
   – Demand letter prepared

Potential Legal Actions

1. Wrongful Death Claim
   – Filed by Cookenmaster’s family
   – Seeks compensation for:

   • Lost future income
   • Loss of companionship
   • Funeral expenses
   • Pain and suffering before death

2. Personal Injury Claim (if others were injured)
   – For any passengers in Cookenmaster’s vehicle
   – For any injuries to other motorists

3. Regulatory Actions
   – FMCSA investigation of the trucking company
   – Potential fines or out-of-service orders
   – Driver’s CDL may be suspended

The Role of Insurance Companies

Trucking companies carry much higher insurance limits than typical auto policies:

• Minimum federal requirement: $750,000
• Typical commercial policy: $1-5 million
• Hazmat or passenger carriers: $5 million

Insurance company tactics to watch for:
– Quick lowball settlement offers
– Denying or minimizing injuries
– Blaming the victim
– Delaying the claims process
– Using recorded statements against victims

Our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows these tactics inside and out. We use that knowledge to fight for maximum compensation.

What This Means for Schertz Families

The Real Cost of Trucking Accidents

When a trucking accident claims a life, the costs go far beyond the immediate tragedy:

1. Economic Costs
   – Lost future income (potentially millions over a lifetime)
   – Medical expenses before death
   – Funeral and burial costs
   – Loss of household services

2. Non-Economic Costs
   – Loss of companionship for spouse
   – Loss of parental guidance for children
   – Mental anguish and emotional suffering
   – Loss of enjoyment of life

3. Societal Costs
   – Emergency response resources
   – Traffic delays and economic disruption
   – Increased insurance premiums for all drivers

Recent Texas Trucking Verdicts Show What’s Possible

Texas juries have shown they will hold trucking companies accountable:

• $730 Million – Ramsey v. Landstar Ranger (2021) – Oversize load fatality
• $150 Million – Werner Enterprises settlement (2022) – Two children killed on I-30
• $37.5 Million – Trucking verdict in Texas (2024)
• $35.5 Million – Family injured in truck accident (Texas)

These verdicts demonstrate that when trucking companies act with negligence or recklessness, juries are willing to award substantial compensation.

How Schertz Families Can Protect Themselves

1. After an Accident
   – Call 911 immediately
   – Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
   – Document the scene with photos and video
   – Get the trucking company name and DOT number
   – Collect witness contact information
   – Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance companies
   – Call an attorney immediately

2. Before an Accident
   – Be extra cautious around large trucks
   – Avoid truck blind spots (No-Zones)
   – Never cut in front of a truck
   – Give trucks extra space when stopping
   – Be especially careful at night and in bad weather

3. If You’re a Truck Driver
   – Follow all FMCSA regulations
   – Never drive while fatigued
   – Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections
   – Maintain proper following distance
   – Avoid distractions

The Attorney911 Advantage: Why We’re Different

Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for accident victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Multi-million dollar settlements for trucking accident victims
• Federal court admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• BP explosion litigation against multinational corporations
• Insider knowledge of commercial trucking insurance tactics

Ralph’s philosophy: “When an 18-wheeler changes a family’s life forever, they need an attorney who treats them like family. That’s what we do at Attorney911.”

Our Unique Team Structure

We have a former insurance defense attorney on our team. This gives us an insider’s view of how insurance companies:

• Evaluate claims
• Train their adjusters
• Minimize payouts
• Deny legitimate claims

We use this knowledge to fight back against their tactics.

Our Track Record of Results

While we can’t guarantee specific outcomes, our firm has achieved:

• $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million – Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in wrongful death cases

Learn more about maximizing your settlement in our video guide:
How to Negotiate a Car Accident Settlement

Our Commitment to Schertz Families

We understand that Schertz is more than just a dot on the map. It’s a community where:

• Families drive on I-35 and I-10 daily
• Local businesses rely on trucking for deliveries
• Neighbors know each other by name

When tragedy strikes, you need an attorney who understands Schertz—not just the law, but the community.

Common Questions About Trucking Accidents

1. How long do I have to file a claim after a trucking accident in Texas?

Texas has a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims. However, you should never wait. Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. The sooner you contact an attorney, the stronger your case will be.

2. What if the truck driver says I caused the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you cannot recover.

3. How much is my trucking accident case worth?

Case values depend on many factors:

• Severity of injuries
• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Degree of defendant’s negligence
• Available insurance coverage

Trucking companies carry higher insurance limits ($750,000 minimum, often $1-5 million), allowing for larger recoveries than typical car accidents.

4. What if the trucking company offers me a quick settlement?

Never accept a quick settlement without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies offer quick settlements because they know the true value of your case. Once you accept, you waive your right to additional compensation—even if your injuries worsen.

5. Can I sue the trucking company even if the driver wasn’t injured?

Yes. In fact, the trucking company is often the primary defendant because:

• They have deeper pockets (higher insurance limits)
• They’re responsible for hiring, training, and supervising drivers
• They’re responsible for vehicle maintenance
• They can be held liable for negligent hiring or supervision

6. What if the trucking company is based in another state?

It doesn’t matter. If the accident occurred in Texas, Texas law applies. Our firm has experience handling cases against out-of-state trucking companies.

7. How long does a trucking accident case take to resolve?

Timelines vary:

• Simple cases with clear liability: 6-12 months
• Complex cases with multiple parties: 1-3 years
• Cases that go to trial: 2-4 years

We work to resolve cases as quickly as possible while maximizing your recovery.

8. Do I need to pay anything upfront to hire your firm?

No. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation. You never receive a bill from us.

The Bottom Line: What You Should Do Now

If You’ve Been in a Trucking Accident

1. Seek medical attention immediately – Even if you feel fine, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
2. Document everything – Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and all vehicles involved.
3. Get witness information – Names and contact information for anyone who saw the accident.
4. Don’t talk to insurance adjusters – Anything you say can be used against you.
5. Call Attorney911 immediately – We’ll send preservation letters to protect critical evidence.

If You’re Concerned About Trucking Safety in Schertz

1. Be extra cautious around large trucks – Remember their blind spots and longer stopping distances.
2. Report unsafe trucking practices – If you see a truck swerving, speeding, or driving erratically, report it to the FMCSA.
3. Support trucking safety legislation – Advocate for stronger regulations and enforcement.
4. Share this information – Help educate your friends and neighbors about trucking safety.

If You’re a Truck Driver

1. Follow all FMCSA regulations – They exist to protect you and others on the road.
2. Never drive while fatigued – Your life and others’ lives depend on your alertness.
3. Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections – Your safety and your livelihood depend on it.
4. Report unsafe company practices – If you’re being pressured to violate regulations, report it to the FMCSA.

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

The aftermath of a trucking accident is overwhelming. Medical bills pile up. Insurance companies pressure you to settle. The trucking company’s lawyers are already working to protect their interests.

You need someone fighting for YOU.

At Attorney911, we have:

• 25+ years of experience fighting trucking companies
• A former insurance defense attorney on our team
• Federal court experience to handle complex cases
• A track record of multi-million dollar results
• Offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont to serve all of Texas

We answer calls 24/7. We fight for maximum compensation. We treat our clients like family.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a trucking accident—whether in Kentucky, Texas, or anywhere else—call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Remember: Evidence disappears fast. Black box data can be overwritten. Dashcam footage gets deleted. Witnesses forget. The time to act is NOW.

Don’t let the trucking company win. Call Attorney911 today.

Additional Resources:

• Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?
• The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents
• What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?

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