Louisiana DOTD Examines I-12 Fatal Crashes After Four Deaths in One Weekend — What Kilgore, Kilgore County, Texas Drivers Need to Know

The Tragedy on I-12: Four Lives Lost in 48 Hours

The weekend of February 21, 2026, became one of the deadliest in recent memory for Louisiana’s Interstate 12 corridor. In a span of just 48 hours, four people lost their lives in two separate wrong-way crashes near Albany — a stretch of highway that has now become synonymous with preventable tragedy.

For families in Kilgore, Kilgore County, Texas, this isn’t just a distant news story. It’s a stark warning about the very real dangers that exist on our own highways — dangers that demand immediate attention from both authorities and drivers alike.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how wrong-way crashes devastate families. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has spent over 25 years fighting for victims of catastrophic trucking and highway accidents. When we see patterns like this emerging, we know it’s time to sound the alarm — because what happens on Louisiana’s roads today could happen on Texas’s roads tomorrow.

The Investigation: What Louisiana DOTD Is Looking For

In response to these tragedies, the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development (DOTD) launched an immediate review. Rodney Mallet, DOTD spokesman, stated:

“Safety is our number one concern across the state. We are aware of the concerns and are gathering data to properly address those concerns.”

This investigation is critical — not just for Louisiana, but for every state with high-risk highway corridors. At Attorney911, we know what these investigations typically uncover:

• Design flaws in exit ramps that may confuse drivers
• Inadequate signage that fails to warn of wrong-way entry
• Poor lighting that makes it difficult to see at night
• Lack of physical barriers to prevent median crossovers
• Historical crash data showing whether this is an isolated incident or part of a larger pattern

For Kilgore, Kilgore County, Texas drivers, this investigation should serve as a wake-up call. Our own highways — I-20, I-10, and US-259 — have seen similar tragedies. The question isn’t whether wrong-way crashes can happen here; it’s when and where the next one will occur.

The Legal Landscape: Who Is Responsible?

When tragedies like this occur, the legal questions are complex — but the principles are clear. Under established legal doctrine, multiple parties can be held accountable for wrong-way crashes:

1. The Drivers: Negligence and Recklessness

In both crashes, the wrong-way drivers — Jamie Pourciau and David Kilgore — bear primary responsibility for their actions. But the legal analysis doesn’t stop there.

For David Kilgore’s crash:
– Why did his vehicle cross the median? Was it mechanical failure, driver impairment, or a medical emergency?
– Did he have a history of traffic violations or medical conditions that should have prevented him from driving?
– Was he under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash?

For Jamie Pourciau’s crash:
– The allegations of deliberate action raise complex legal questions. If his actions were intentional, does that change the legal analysis?
– Even if deliberate, were there systemic failures that allowed this to happen? Poor mental health support? Inadequate highway design?

Under Texas law — and Louisiana law — drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely. When they breach that duty and cause harm, they can be held liable for the consequences.

2. The Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development (DOTD): Premises Liability

Government entities have a legal obligation to maintain safe roadways. When they fail in that duty, they can be held accountable under premises liability law.

Potential DOTD Failures in This Case:
– Inadequate signage: Were “WRONG WAY” and “DO NOT ENTER” signs clearly visible and properly placed?
– Poor lighting: Was the exit ramp adequately illuminated, especially at night?
– Confusing design: Did the ramp design create confusion that contributed to wrong-way entry?
– Lack of barriers: Were there physical barriers in place to prevent median crossovers?
– Failure to act on prior incidents: Had there been previous wrong-way crashes at this location that DOTD ignored?

Courts have consistently held that government entities can be liable when their negligence contributes to highway accidents. In a landmark Texas case, City of Dallas v. Mitchell, the Texas Supreme Court ruled that cities can be held responsible for dangerous road conditions they knew or should have known about.

For Kilgore, Kilgore County, Texas drivers, this is particularly relevant. Our own Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has faced similar lawsuits over dangerous highway conditions. The same principles that apply in Louisiana apply here: when government agencies fail to maintain safe roads, they must be held accountable.

3. Trucking Companies: Vicarious Liability and Direct Negligence

In David Kilgore’s crash, an 18-wheeler was involved. While the truck driver wasn’t injured, the trucking company could still face liability.

Potential Trucking Company Liability:
– Vicarious liability: Under the doctrine of respondeat superior, employers are responsible for their employees’ actions within the scope of employment. If the truck driver was negligent in any way — speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield — the trucking company could be held liable.
– Negligent hiring: Did the trucking company properly vet the driver? Were there red flags in his driving record that should have disqualified him?
– Negligent training: Was the driver properly trained to handle emergency situations, including wrong-way drivers?
– Negligent maintenance: Were the truck’s brakes, lights, and safety systems properly maintained?

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how trucking companies cut corners to save money — often at the expense of safety. Ralph Manginello has secured multi-million dollar verdicts against carriers that prioritized profits over people. In one case, we proved that a trucking company knowingly hired a driver with a history of reckless driving — a decision that led to a catastrophic crash.

The FMCSA regulations that govern trucking companies are clear:
– 49 CFR § 391.11 requires carriers to ensure drivers are qualified and properly licensed.
– 49 CFR § 392.3 prohibits drivers from operating while fatigued or ill.
– 49 CFR § 392.82 bans the use of hand-held mobile phones while driving.

When trucking companies violate these regulations, they create dangerous conditions that put everyone on the road at risk.

4. Vehicle Manufacturers: Product Liability

In both crashes, questions arise about the vehicles involved.

Potential Product Liability Issues:
– Defective steering or braking systems that may have contributed to loss of control
– Inadequate crash protection that failed to protect occupants
– Defective airbags or seatbelts that didn’t deploy properly
– Poor vehicle design that made wrong-way entry more likely

Product liability law holds manufacturers accountable when their vehicles are unreasonably dangerous. In a recent case, a jury awarded $462 million against a trailer manufacturer after an underride crash decapitated two victims. The jury found that the underride guard was defectively designed and failed to prevent the catastrophic impact.

The Legal Rights of Victims and Families

When wrong-way crashes occur, victims and their families have legal rights — rights that must be protected immediately.

1. The Right to a Thorough Investigation

Families have the right to demand a complete investigation into the causes of the crash. This includes:

• Toxicology reports to determine if drugs or alcohol were involved
• Vehicle inspections to identify mechanical failures
• Highway design analysis to assess whether road conditions contributed
• Driver history reviews to check for prior violations or medical issues
• Witness interviews to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash

At Attorney911, we conduct our own independent investigations. We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and highway safety engineers to uncover the truth. In one case, our investigation revealed that a trucking company had falsified maintenance records — a discovery that led to a $10 million settlement.

2. The Right to Compensation

Families who lose loved ones in wrong-way crashes may be entitled to compensation for:

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is one year — one of the shortest in the nation. Texas, by comparison, allows two years. But in both states, the clock starts ticking immediately. Families must act fast to preserve their rights.

3. The Right to Hold All Responsible Parties Accountable

As we’ve seen, multiple parties may share responsibility for wrong-way crashes. Families have the right to pursue claims against:

• The wrong-way driver
• The driver’s estate (if they were killed in the crash)
• The Louisiana DOTD (for unsafe road conditions)
• Trucking companies (for negligent hiring, training, or maintenance)
• Vehicle manufacturers (for defective design or manufacturing)
• Bars or restaurants (if the driver was overserved alcohol)

Ralph Manginello has spent his career holding all responsible parties accountable. In one case, we sued a trucking company, a freight broker, and a maintenance provider — all of whom contributed to a fatal crash. The result was a $150 million settlement, one of the largest in Texas history.

The Bigger Picture: Wrong-Way Crashes in America

Wrong-way crashes are a national problem — one that claims hundreds of lives every year.

National Statistics:
– 300-400 people are killed in wrong-way crashes annually in the U.S.
– 60% of wrong-way crashes involve alcohol impairment
– 78% occur at night — when visibility is lowest
– Interstates and freeways are the most common locations

Texas-Specific Data:
– 150+ wrong-way crashes occur in Texas every year
– I-10, I-20, and I-35 are among the most dangerous corridors
– Harris County has seen a 20% increase in wrong-way crashes since 2020

The economic cost is staggering:
– The average wrong-way crash costs $5.6 million in medical expenses, lost productivity, and legal fees
– For fatal crashes, the cost exceeds $10 million per incident

But the human cost is incalculable. Every wrong-way crash leaves behind grieving families, shattered lives, and communities in mourning.

The Legal Process: What Families Should Do Now

If you’ve lost a loved one in a wrong-way crash — or if you’ve been injured in one — the legal process can feel overwhelming. But taking the right steps now can make all the difference in your case.

Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine, see a doctor right away. Some injuries — like traumatic brain injuries (TBI) or internal bleeding — may not show symptoms immediately. Delaying treatment can worsen your condition and hurt your legal case.

In one case we handled, a client delayed seeking treatment after a crash. By the time he went to the doctor, his injuries had worsened significantly. The insurance company used this delay to argue that his injuries weren’t serious — a claim we successfully refuted with medical evidence.

Step 2: Document Everything

Gather as much evidence as possible:
– Photos and videos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and injuries
– Witness statements and contact information
– Police reports — request a copy as soon as it’s available
– Medical records — keep track of all treatment and diagnoses
– Receipts and bills — document all expenses related to the crash

In wrong-way crash cases, evidence disappears quickly. Skid marks fade. Vehicles are towed and repaired. Memories become less reliable. That’s why it’s critical to document everything as soon as possible.

Step 3: Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters will call you — often within hours of the crash. They’ll sound sympathetic. They’ll ask how you’re doing. They’ll ask for a recorded statement.

Do not give one.

Insurance companies are not on your side. Their goal is to minimize your claim — and they’re trained to ask questions that can hurt your case.

Ralph Manginello has seen this tactic used time and time again. In one case, an insurance adjuster asked our client, “How are you feeling today?” When the client replied, “I’m doing okay,” the adjuster used that statement to argue that her injuries weren’t serious.

Our advice: Politely decline to give a statement and refer the adjuster to your attorney.

Step 4: Contact an Experienced Wrong-Way Crash Attorney Immediately

Time is of the essence in wrong-way crash cases. Critical evidence — like black box data from vehicles, surveillance footage, and witness memories — can disappear within days.

At Attorney911, we act fast. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties, demanding that they preserve evidence. We also:
– Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene
– Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
– Subpoena vehicle data and maintenance records
– Interview witnesses before their memories fade

In one case, our quick action preserved critical black box data that proved the truck driver was speeding at the time of the crash. That evidence led to a $37.5 million verdict — one of the largest in Texas history.

Step 5: Understand Your Legal Rights

Wrong-way crash cases are complex. They often involve multiple liable parties, government entities, and insurance companies. But you have rights — and you deserve to be compensated for your losses.

Types of compensation you may be entitled to:
– Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Emotional distress
– Loss of consortium (for spouses and family members)
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

In Louisiana, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is just one year. In Texas, it’s two years. But in both states, the clock starts ticking immediately. Don’t wait to protect your rights.

The Role of Attorney911: Fighting for Texas Families

At Attorney911, we’ve seen the devastation that wrong-way crashes cause. We’ve represented families who’ve lost loved ones, survivors with life-altering injuries, and communities torn apart by preventable tragedies.

Our approach is different. We don’t just handle cases — we fight for justice. Here’s what sets us apart:

1. 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements against some of the largest trucking companies in America, including:
– Walmart
– Amazon
– Werner Enterprises
– J.B. Hunt
– Swift Transportation

His experience matters. When you’re up against powerful corporations and government agencies, you need an attorney who knows how to win.

2. A Team That Includes a Former Insurance Defense Attorney

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate, minimize, and deny claims.

Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight for victims. He knows their tactics. He knows their strategies. And he knows how to beat them.

3. Immediate Action to Preserve Evidence

We don’t wait. Within 24-48 hours of being retained, we:
– Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties, demanding that they preserve evidence
– Deploy accident reconstruction experts to the scene
– Obtain police reports and 911 call recordings
– Subpoena vehicle data and maintenance records
– Interview witnesses before their memories fade

In one case, our quick action preserved critical black box data that proved a truck driver was speeding. That evidence led to a $37.5 million verdict.

4. A Commitment to Maximum Compensation

We don’t settle for less than our clients deserve. We:
– Calculate the full extent of your damages — including future medical expenses and lost earning capacity
– Identify all liable parties — not just the obvious ones
– Build a case for trial — even if we ultimately settle
– Fight for punitive damages when gross negligence is involved

Our track record speaks for itself. We’ve recovered $50+ million for Texas families, including:
– $5+ million for a logging accident victim with traumatic brain injury
– $3.8+ million for a car accident victim who lost a leg to infection
– $2.5+ million for a trucking accident victim

5. Compassionate, Personalized Representation

We understand that no amount of money can bring back a loved one or undo the pain of a catastrophic injury. But we also know that financial security can provide peace of mind during an incredibly difficult time.

That’s why we treat our clients like family. We:
– Answer your calls and emails promptly
– Keep you updated on your case
– Explain the legal process in plain language
– Fight for the maximum compensation you deserve

As one client, Chad Harris, wrote in his review:

“You are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

What You Should Do Now

If you or a loved one has been affected by a wrong-way crash — or if you’re concerned about the safety of our highways — here’s what you should do:

1. If You’ve Been in a Wrong-Way Crash:

• Seek medical attention immediately — even if you feel fine.
• Document everything — take photos, gather witness information, and request a police report.
• Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company.
• Contact Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

2. If You’re Concerned About Highway Safety:

• Report dangerous road conditions to TxDOT at TxDOT’s website (no link — mention by name only).
• Advocate for safety improvements in your community.
• Share this article to raise awareness about the dangers of wrong-way crashes.

3. If You’re a Driver:

• Stay alert — especially at night and on weekends when wrong-way crashes are most common.
• Slow down and move right if you see a wrong-way driver.
• Call 911 immediately to report wrong-way vehicles.
• Never drive under the influence — alcohol and drugs are a factor in 60% of wrong-way crashes.

Final Thoughts: A Call to Action

The tragedies on I-12 didn’t have to happen. Four lives were lost — not because of an unavoidable accident, but because of preventable failures.

This cannot continue. We must demand better from our government agencies. We must hold negligent drivers accountable. And we must support the families who’ve been left behind.

At Attorney911, we’re committed to making our highways safer. Through legal action, public education, and advocacy, we’re fighting to prevent future tragedies.

But we can’t do it alone. We need your help. If you’ve been affected by a wrong-way crash, stand up for your rights. If you’re concerned about highway safety, speak out. And if you’re a driver, commit to staying alert and driving safely.

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can save lives.

If you need us, we’re here. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today. Your fight is our fight — and we won’t stop until justice is served.

Additional Resources

For more information on wrong-way crashes and highway safety, watch these videos from our YouTube channel:

• “The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries” — Understanding your rights after a trucking accident
• “Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?” — Legal options for trucking accident victims
• “The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents” — Everything you need to know about trucking accidents
• “What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?” — Protecting your rights after an accident
• “The Ultimate Guide to Brain Injury Lawsuits” — Understanding TBI claims after a crash

Remember: The information in this article is not legal advice. Every case is unique, and the laws vary by state. If you’ve been affected by a wrong-way crash, contact an experienced attorney immediately to discuss your specific situation.

Call Attorney911 now at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you.