4 Hospitalized After Rollover Crash Involving 7 Cars in San Antonio — What Nacogdoches Drivers Need to Know

The scene was chaos. Around 5:16 p.m. on Saturday, February 22, 2026, a wrong-way driver traveling at high speed in a 2019 black Chevrolet Colorado ran a red light at Judson Road in San Antonio. The impact was catastrophic. The pickup truck crashed into another vehicle, then careened into six more cars. One vehicle flipped over, trapping its driver inside with serious injuries. In total, four people were rushed to local hospitals — two in critical condition.

This wasn’t just another car accident. It was a multi-vehicle pileup caused by a wrong-way driver on one of Texas’s busiest corridors. And it’s a stark reminder of the dangers that exist right here in Nacogdoches County.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen what happens when negligence meets Texas highways. With over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims, our managing partner Ralph Manginello knows that cases like this aren’t just about the crash — they’re about the lives changed in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases and knows how to hold all responsible parties accountable.

Here’s what you need to know about this incident — and how it connects to the risks you face every day on Nacogdoches County roads.

The Human Cost: Injuries and Trauma from Multi-Vehicle Accidents

When multiple vehicles are involved in a crash, the injuries are often severe. In this incident, four people were hospitalized, including the driver of the Chevrolet Colorado. Two of the victims are in critical condition — a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can change.

Common Injuries in Multi-Vehicle Pileups

At Attorney911, we’ve represented clients who’ve suffered life-altering injuries in accidents just like this one. The forces involved in multi-vehicle collisions can cause:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with airbags, the sudden impact can cause the brain to collide with the skull, leading to concussions, memory loss, or permanent cognitive impairment.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The force of a rollover or high-speed impact can damage the spinal cord, potentially leading to paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Ribs, arms, legs, and pelvises are particularly vulnerable in side-impact and rollover crashes.
• Internal Organ Damage: The sudden deceleration can cause internal bleeding, organ rupture, or other life-threatening injuries.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash, torn ligaments, and muscle damage may not be immediately apparent but can cause chronic pain.
• Psychological Trauma: Survivors of multi-vehicle crashes often experience PTSD, anxiety, and depression long after the physical injuries heal.

In this case, one vehicle flipped over, trapping its driver inside. Rollover accidents are particularly dangerous because they increase the risk of ejection, crushing injuries, and prolonged entrapment — all of which can worsen the severity of injuries.

The Long-Term Impact on Victims and Families

The physical injuries are just the beginning. The long-term consequences of a multi-vehicle accident can include:

• Medical Bills: Emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care can quickly add up to hundreds of thousands — or even millions — of dollars.
• Lost Wages: If injuries prevent you from working, even temporarily, the financial strain can be overwhelming.
• Pain and Suffering: Chronic pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life are all compensable damages in Texas.
• Permanent Disability: Some injuries, like spinal cord damage or severe TBI, may require lifelong care and assistance.
• Wrongful Death: In the worst cases, families are left grieving the loss of a loved one.

Ralph Manginello has seen firsthand how these accidents devastate families. “The trucking companies and insurance adjusters will be working immediately to protect their interests,” he says. “You need someone on your side who knows how to fight for the compensation you deserve.”

FMCSA Regulations: How Violations Could Strengthen Your Case

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict regulations for commercial vehicles. While the Chevrolet Colorado in this crash was not a commercial truck, many of the same principles apply — especially if the driver was operating the vehicle for work purposes.

Here are some key FMCSA regulations that could be relevant in this case:

1. 49 CFR § 392.3 — Ill or Fatigued Operator

This regulation states:

“No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle, and a motor carrier shall not require or permit a driver to operate a commercial motor vehicle, while the driver’s ability or alertness is so impaired, or so likely to become impaired, through fatigue, illness, or any other cause, as to make it unsafe for him/her to begin or continue to operate the commercial motor vehicle.”

Why It Matters:
If the driver was fatigued, ill, or otherwise impaired, this regulation could be used to prove negligence. Fatigue is a leading cause of wrong-way driving accidents, and violating this rule could strengthen a claim.

2. 49 CFR § 392.4 — Drugs and Other Substances

This regulation prohibits drivers from operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It states:

“No driver shall be on duty or operate a commercial motor vehicle while the driver possesses alcohol or any controlled substance.”

Why It Matters:
If the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this regulation could be used to prove gross negligence — which could open the door to punitive damages in Texas.

3. 49 CFR § 392.5 — Alcohol Prohibition

This regulation prohibits drivers from:
– Using alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty
– Using alcohol while on duty
– Being under the influence of alcohol (.04 BAC or higher) while on duty
– Possessing alcohol while on duty

Why It Matters:
If the driver had been drinking, this regulation could be used to prove negligence per se — meaning the violation itself is evidence of negligence.

4. 49 CFR § 392.6 — Speeding

This regulation states:

“No motor carrier shall schedule a run, nor shall any such carrier permit or require the operation of any commercial motor vehicle, between points in such period of time as would require the commercial motor vehicle to be operated at speeds in excess of those prescribed by the jurisdictions in or through which the commercial motor vehicle is being operated.”

Why It Matters:
If the driver was speeding, this regulation could be used to prove negligence. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.

5. 49 CFR § 392.11 — Following Too Closely

This regulation requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. It states:

“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.”

Why It Matters:
While this regulation is more relevant to rear-end collisions, it underscores the importance of maintaining control of the vehicle at all times. A driver who is following too closely may not have enough time to react to sudden hazards — like a wrong-way driver.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Multi-Vehicle Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a multi-vehicle accident, the steps you take in the immediate aftermath can make or break your case. Here’s what to do:

1. Call 911 Immediately

Even if your injuries seem minor, call 911. A police report is critical evidence, and emergency responders can provide life-saving medical care.

2. Seek Medical Attention

Some injuries, like TBI or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent. Get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Delaying treatment can worsen your injuries and give insurance companies ammunition to deny your claim.

3. Document the Scene

If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
– The accident scene, including skid marks, debris, and road conditions
– Damage to all vehicles involved
– Your injuries
– Traffic signals, signs, and road markings
– Witness contact information

4. Do NOT Admit Fault

Even a simple apology can be used against you. Stick to the facts when speaking to police and other parties.

5. Do NOT Give a Recorded Statement to Insurance

Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. Anything you say can be used to reduce your compensation. Politely decline to give a statement until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

6. Contact an Attorney Immediately

Evidence disappears quickly in multi-vehicle accidents. Black box data can be overwritten, surveillance footage can be deleted, and witnesses can forget details. At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters within 24-48 hours to preserve critical evidence.

Precedent Cases: What Multi-Vehicle Accident Victims Can Recover

Multi-vehicle accidents often result in significant settlements and verdicts. Here are some real-world examples of what victims have recovered in similar cases:

1. $462 Million Verdict — St. Louis Underride Crash (2024)

In 2024, a Missouri jury awarded $462 million to the families of two men who were decapitated in an underride crash. The verdict included compensation for wrongful death, pain and suffering, and punitive damages. The case highlighted the dangers of inadequate underride guards on trailers.

Why It Matters:
This case demonstrates that juries are willing to hold trucking companies and manufacturers accountable for preventable deaths. If a mechanical failure or design defect contributed to your accident, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

2. $150 Million Settlement — Werner Enterprises Crash (2022)

In 2022, Werner Enterprises settled a case for $150 million after two children were killed in a crash on I-30 in Texas. The settlement was one of the largest in U.S. history for a trucking accident.

Why It Matters:
This case shows that trucking companies with deep pockets can be held accountable for their negligence. If the wrong-way driver in this San Antonio crash was operating a company vehicle, their employer could be on the hook for substantial damages.

3. $730 Million Verdict — Landstar Ranger Case (2021)

In 2021, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters:
This case underscores the importance of holding all liable parties accountable — including the trucking company, the driver, and the cargo owner. In multi-vehicle accidents, multiple parties may share responsibility.

4. $160 Million Verdict — Daimler Trucks Rollover Case (2024)

In 2024, an Alabama jury awarded $160 million to a driver who was left quadriplegic after a rollover crash. The verdict included $75 million in compensatory damages and $75 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters:
Rollover accidents, like the one in this San Antonio crash, often result in catastrophic injuries. This case shows that juries are willing to award significant damages for permanent disabilities.

The Role of Black Box Data in Multi-Vehicle Accidents

In multi-vehicle accidents, black box data can be the key to proving liability. Most modern vehicles — including the 2019 Chevrolet Colorado involved in this crash — are equipped with an Event Data Recorder (EDR). This device records critical data in the moments leading up to a crash, including:

• Speed: How fast the vehicle was traveling before impact
• Brake application: When and how hard the brakes were applied
• Throttle position: Whether the driver was accelerating or coasting
• Steering input: Whether the driver was attempting to correct their course
• Seatbelt use: Whether the driver and passengers were wearing seatbelts
• Airbag deployment: Whether the airbags deployed and the severity of the impact

Why Black Box Data Is Critical

Black box data is objective and tamper-resistant. It can:
– Prove that the wrong-way driver was speeding
– Show whether the driver attempted to brake or swerve
– Confirm whether the driver was distracted or impaired
– Provide evidence of mechanical failure

At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this data. Once we notify the at-fault party of potential litigation, they are legally obligated to preserve all evidence — including black box data.

What to Expect in a Multi-Vehicle Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, here’s what you can expect when you work with Attorney911:

1. Free Consultation

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to evaluate your case. During this meeting, we’ll:
– Review the details of your accident
– Explain your legal rights and options
– Answer your questions
– Provide an honest assessment of your case

2. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve critical evidence, including:
– Black box data: From the vehicles involved in the crash
– Surveillance footage: From traffic cameras or nearby businesses
– Witness statements: Before memories fade
– Police reports: Documenting the scene and citations
– Medical records: Linking your injuries to the accident

3. Thorough Investigation

We leave no stone unturned. Our investigation includes:
– Accident reconstruction: Using experts to determine how the crash occurred
– Driver background checks: Investigating the at-fault driver’s history for prior violations or signs of impairment
– Vehicle inspections: Checking for mechanical defects or maintenance failures
– Road design analysis: Evaluating whether poor road conditions contributed to the crash

4. Identifying All Liable Parties

We pursue every party that may share liability, including:
– The wrong-way driver
– The driver’s employer (if applicable)
– Vehicle or parts manufacturers
– Government entities (for road design or maintenance issues)
– Other drivers involved in the crash

5. Fighting Insurance Companies

Insurance companies will try to minimize your claim. We know their tactics and how to counter them. Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how adjusters evaluate claims — and how to maximize your compensation.

6. Calculating Full Damages

We work with medical experts, vocational experts, and economists to calculate the full cost of your injuries, including:
– Medical expenses: Past, present, and future
– Lost wages: If your injuries prevent you from working
– Pain and suffering: For the physical and emotional toll of the accident
– Punitive damages: If the at-fault party acted with gross negligence

7. Taking Your Case to Trial

While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which attorneys are willing to go to court — and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready lawyers.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The wrong-way driver in this San Antonio crash made a reckless decision that changed multiple lives in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, you deserve justice — and you deserve compensation for your injuries, your medical bills, and your pain and suffering.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims in Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for clients who’ve suffered catastrophic injuries. We know how to hold all responsible parties accountable — and we know how to fight insurance companies that try to minimize your claim.

Don’t wait. Evidence disappears quickly in multi-vehicle accidents. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal rights, and start fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

The wrong-way driver in this San Antonio crash made a reckless decision that changed multiple lives in an instant. If you or a loved one has been injured in a multi-vehicle accident, you can’t afford to wait.

Evidence disappears quickly. Black box data can be overwritten. Surveillance footage can be deleted. Witnesses can forget details. The trucking companies and insurance adjusters will be working immediately to protect their interests — and you need someone on your side who can do the same.

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims in Texas for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar settlements for clients who’ve suffered catastrophic injuries. We know how to hold all responsible parties accountable — and we know how to fight insurance companies that try to minimize your claim.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your legal rights, and start fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Hablamos Español. Llame a Lupe Peña al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratis.

Don’t wait. Your future depends on it.