Tragedy at Greenwood and Horne: Jacqueline Farmer’s Fatal Collision Highlights Corpus Christi’s Trucking Safety Crisis

The Crash That Changed Everything

It happened just before 7:00 p.m. on February 17, 2026. Jacqueline Farmer, a 43-year-old Corpus Christi resident, was driving eastbound on Horne Road when her life was cut short by a catastrophic collision. A man driving northbound on Greenwood Drive ran a red light at the intersection, slamming into Jacqueline’s vehicle with devastating force. The impact was immediate and fatal—Jacqueline was pronounced dead at the scene.

The other driver, whose identity remains protected, was rushed to a local hospital with serious injuries. The collision wasn’t just a tragedy for the families involved; it left the entire intersection without working traffic lights after damaging a nearby traffic signal control box, and it closed the intersection for several hours, disrupting the lives of countless Corpus Christi residents.

Alcohol was ruled out as a factor, but that does little to comfort Jacqueline’s loved ones or the community left grappling with the senseless loss of life. This wasn’t just an accident—it was a preventable disaster, one that raises urgent questions about trucking safety, intersection design, and the accountability of drivers and their employers on Corpus Christi’s roads.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen far too many cases like Jacqueline’s. As Corpus Christi trucking accident attorneys with over 25 years of experience, we know that these tragedies often stem from systemic failures—failures that could have been prevented if trucking companies, drivers, and local authorities had prioritized safety over convenience or cost.

The Hidden Dangers of Corpus Christi’s Intersections

The intersection of Greenwood and Horne is more than just a crossing of two roads—it’s a microcosm of the challenges facing Corpus Christi’s transportation network. Located near major corridors like I-37 and SPID, this intersection sees heavy traffic from commercial vehicles, commuters, and local residents. Its proximity to industrial areas, retail centers, and residential neighborhoods means it’s a high-risk zone for collisions.

Why This Intersection Is Particularly Dangerous

1. High Traffic Volume:
   – Greenwood Drive and Horne Road are both major thoroughfares in Corpus Christi. Greenwood connects to SPID, a critical route for commercial traffic, while Horne serves as a key east-west corridor.
   – The intersection is a hub for trucks transporting goods to and from the Port of Corpus Christi, one of the busiest ports in the United States. This means a constant flow of large commercial vehicles, increasing the risk of catastrophic collisions.

2. Complex Traffic Patterns:
   – The intersection is controlled by traffic signals, but as we saw in this tragedy, those signals can fail—either due to mechanical issues (like the damaged control box) or human error (like running a red light).
   – The layout of the intersection may also contribute to confusion, especially for drivers unfamiliar with the area. Poor visibility, inadequate signage, or unclear lane markings can increase the risk of accidents.

3. Commercial Vehicle Traffic:
   – The Port of Corpus Christi is a major economic driver for the region, handling millions of tons of cargo annually. This means a steady stream of trucks traveling to and from the port, often through intersections like Greenwood and Horne.
   – Commercial vehicles, including 18-wheelers, have longer stopping distances and larger blind spots than passenger vehicles. When these trucks are involved in collisions, the results are often devastating.

4. Infrastructure Vulnerabilities:
   – The fact that the collision damaged a traffic signal control box highlights a critical vulnerability in Corpus Christi’s infrastructure. If a single accident can knock out traffic lights for an entire intersection, it raises questions about the resilience of our traffic management systems.
   – Poorly maintained roads, inadequate lighting, and lack of pedestrian or cyclist protections can also contribute to accidents.

A Pattern of Danger?

While this specific collision is still under investigation, it’s worth noting that Corpus Christi has seen its share of intersection-related tragedies. In 2023 alone, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reported over 1,200 crashes at intersections in Nueces County, resulting in 22 fatalities and hundreds of serious injuries. Many of these crashes involved commercial vehicles, and many were preventable.

At Attorney911, we’ve handled numerous cases involving intersection collisions in Corpus Christi and across Texas. Time and again, we’ve seen how a moment of negligence—whether it’s running a red light, failing to yield, or driving while distracted—can have lifelong consequences for victims and their families.

2. The Trucking Company: Negligent Hiring, Training, or Supervision?

If the northbound driver was operating a commercial vehicle (e.g., a delivery truck, box truck, or even a company-owned pickup), the trucking company or employer may share liability under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior. This doctrine holds employers responsible for the actions of their employees when those actions occur within the scope of employment.

But trucking companies can also be held directly liable for their own negligence. Here are some ways the company may have contributed to this tragedy:

Negligent Hiring

Trucking companies are required to conduct thorough background checks on their drivers, including:
– Reviewing the driver’s Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) for past violations.
– Verifying the driver’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) and medical certification.
– Checking the driver’s employment history for past accidents or disciplinary issues.

If the company failed to conduct these checks—or ignored red flags in the driver’s history—it could be held liable for negligent hiring.

Negligent Training

Commercial drivers must be trained on:
– Safe driving practices, including intersection navigation.
– Hours of Service regulations and fatigue management.
– Vehicle inspection and maintenance.
– Emergency procedures.

If the company provided inadequate training or failed to ensure the driver understood these critical safety protocols, it could be held liable for negligent training.

Negligent Supervision

Trucking companies must monitor their drivers’ performance, including:
– Tracking compliance with HOS regulations.
– Reviewing telematics data for speeding, harsh braking, or other unsafe behaviors.
– Addressing complaints or reports of reckless driving.

If the company failed to supervise the driver or ignored signs of unsafe behavior, it could be held liable for negligent supervision.

Pressure to Violate Safety Regulations

One of the most insidious practices in the trucking industry is pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations in the name of profit. Companies may:
– Encourage drivers to falsify logbooks to exceed HOS limits.
– Set unrealistic delivery deadlines that force drivers to speed or skip breaks.
– Penalize drivers for refusing to drive in unsafe conditions.

If the northbound driver was pressured to meet a tight deadline or violate HOS regulations, the company could be held liable for negligent scheduling or coercion.

4. The Vehicle or Parts Manufacturer: Defective Design or Manufacturing?

While the investigation is still ongoing, it’s worth considering whether a vehicle defect contributed to the collision. For example:
– Brake failure: If the northbound vehicle’s brakes malfunctioned, the manufacturer of the brake system could be held liable.
– Tire blowout: If a tire failed due to a manufacturing defect, the tire manufacturer could be held responsible.
– Steering or suspension failure: Defects in these systems could cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle.

Under product liability law, manufacturers can be held strictly liable for defects that cause accidents, even if they weren’t negligent in the traditional sense.

6. Government Entities: Dangerous Road Design or Maintenance?

While the investigation is still ongoing, it’s worth examining whether road design or maintenance played a role in this tragedy. Government entities (e.g., the City of Corpus Christi, Nueces County, or TxDOT) can be held liable for:
– Dangerous intersection design: Poor visibility, inadequate signage, or confusing lane markings can contribute to accidents.
– Failure to maintain traffic signals: If the traffic signal at Greenwood and Horne was malfunctioning before the crash, the responsible agency could be held liable.
– Inadequate lighting or signage: Poor lighting or missing warning signs can make intersections more dangerous, especially at night.
– Failure to address known hazards: If the intersection had a history of accidents, the government may have failed in its duty to address the hazard.

However, suing a government entity is complex due to sovereign immunity laws, which limit the government’s liability. In Texas, you must file a notice of claim within 6 months of the accident, and damages may be capped.

The Legal Rights of Jacqueline Farmer’s Family

Jacqueline Farmer’s death is a devastating loss for her family, friends, and the Corpus Christi community. While no amount of money can bring her back, Texas law provides avenues for her family to seek justice and compensation through a wrongful death claim.

What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?

A wrongful death claim is a civil lawsuit brought by the surviving family members of someone who was killed due to another party’s negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. In Texas, wrongful death claims are governed by the Texas Wrongful Death Act (Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.001 et seq.).

Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in Texas?

Under Texas law, the following family members may file a wrongful death claim:
– The surviving spouse of the deceased.
– The children of the deceased (including adult children).
– The parents of the deceased.

If none of these family members file a claim within 3 months of the death, the executor or administrator of the deceased’s estate may file the claim on behalf of the family.

What Damages Can Be Recovered?

In a wrongful death claim, the family may recover compensation for:
1. Economic Damages:
– Lost earning capacity: The income Jacqueline would have earned had she lived.
– Loss of inheritance: The value of what Jacqueline would have saved and left to her family.
– Funeral and burial expenses: The costs associated with Jacqueline’s final arrangements.
– Medical expenses: Any medical bills incurred before Jacqueline’s death.

2. Non-Economic Damages:
   – Loss of companionship and society: The emotional support, love, and guidance Jacqueline provided to her family.
   – Mental anguish: The emotional pain and suffering experienced by Jacqueline’s family.
   – Loss of consortium: The loss of a spouse’s love, affection, and intimacy.

3. Punitive Damages:
   – In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, the family may also recover punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

How Long Do They Have to File?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of death. This means Jacqueline’s family has until February 17, 2028, to file a lawsuit. However, it’s critical to act as soon as possible—evidence disappears quickly, and witnesses’ memories fade.

2. Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR § 391)

FMCSA regulations require trucking companies to hire qualified drivers and maintain Driver Qualification (DQ) Files for each driver. These files must include:

Why This Matters in Jacqueline’s Case:
If the northbound driver was operating a commercial vehicle, the trucking company may have failed to:
– Conduct a thorough background check.
– Verify the driver’s medical certification.
– Review the driver’s past violations or accidents.
– Provide adequate training on safe driving practices.

If the company cut corners in hiring or training, it could be held liable for negligent hiring or negligent training.

4. Cargo Securement (49 CFR § 393.100-136)

If the northbound vehicle was carrying cargo, FMCSA’s cargo securement regulations may apply. These rules require cargo to be immobilized or secured to prevent shifting, leaking, or falling from the vehicle.

Key Requirements:
– Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.8 g deceleration (sudden stop).
– Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.5 g acceleration (sudden start).
– Cargo must be secured to withstand 0.5 g lateral force (side-to-side movement).
– The aggregate working load limit of tiedowns must be at least 50% of the cargo weight.

Why This Matters in Jacqueline’s Case:
If the northbound vehicle was carrying cargo and it was improperly secured, the cargo could have shifted during the crash, exacerbating the damage. The loading company or cargo owner could be held liable for negligent loading.

2. $462 Million Verdict – Missouri (2024)

Case: Two men were decapitated in an underride collision with a semi-truck.
Key Facts:
– The truck’s rear underride guard failed, allowing the smaller vehicle to slide underneath the trailer.
– The trucking company had ignored previous inspection reports warning of defects.
– The company had a history of cargo securement violations.
Verdict: $462 million against the trucking company and trailer manufacturer.

Why It Matters for Jacqueline’s Case:
While this was an underride collision, it highlights the importance of vehicle maintenance and equipment safety. If the northbound vehicle in Jacqueline’s case had mechanical defects (e.g., brake failure, tire blowout), the trucking company or manufacturer could be held liable for failing to address them.

4. $730 Million Verdict – Texas (2021)

Case: A Navy propeller oversize load killed a 73-year-old woman.
Key Facts:
– The trucking company had failed to obtain proper permits for the oversize load.
– The company had ignored warnings about the route’s dangers.
– The driver was fatigued and had violated HOS regulations.
Verdict: $480 million in compensatory damages + $250 million in punitive damages.

Why It Matters for Jacqueline’s Case:
This case demonstrates that Texas juries are willing to hold trucking companies accountable for egregious negligence. If the northbound driver in Jacqueline’s case was fatigued, distracted, or pressured to violate safety regulations, a similar outcome could be possible.

2. Consult an Experienced Trucking Accident Attorney

Trucking accident cases are complex and require specialized expertise. Here’s why you need an attorney with experience in this area:
– Understanding FMCSA Regulations: Trucking cases involve federal regulations that don’t apply to typical car accidents. An experienced attorney knows how to use these regulations to prove negligence.
– Identifying All Liable Parties: As we’ve discussed, multiple parties may share liability in a trucking accident. An experienced attorney knows how to investigate and identify all responsible parties.
– Preserving Evidence: Evidence disappears quickly in trucking cases. An attorney can send spoliation letters to preserve critical data before it’s lost.
– Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Trucking companies and their insurers have teams of lawyers working to minimize your claim. You need someone on your side who knows their tactics.
– Maximizing Your Recovery: An experienced attorney knows how to calculate the full value of your claim, including economic and non-economic damages.

Ralph Manginello, the founder of Attorney911, has over 25 years of experience handling trucking accident cases. He’s recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by trucking accidents, and he knows how to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.

4. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of everything related to the accident and your loved one’s death:
– Medical Records: If Jacqueline received medical treatment before her death, preserve all records.
– Funeral and Burial Expenses: Keep receipts for all expenses related to Jacqueline’s final arrangements.
– Lost Income: If Jacqueline was employed, document her income and the financial impact of her death on your family.
– Emotional Impact: Keep a journal documenting the emotional toll of Jacqueline’s death on your family. This can be powerful evidence of mental anguish and loss of companionship.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Case?

At Attorney911, we understand the devastation that trucking accidents cause. We’ve seen families like Jacqueline’s torn apart by preventable tragedies, and we’re committed to holding negligent trucking companies accountable.

Here’s why you should choose us to represent your family:

1. Over 25 Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello, our founder and managing partner, has been fighting for injury victims since 1998. He’s handled hundreds of trucking accident cases, and he knows how to build a strong case against even the largest trucking companies.

2. Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims and how to counter their tactics. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in negotiations.

3. Aggressive Representation

We don’t back down from trucking companies or their insurers. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, and we’re not afraid to take your case to court if that’s what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.

4. Multi-Million Dollar Results

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by trucking accidents. Here are just a few examples:
– $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement.
– $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement.
– $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery.
– Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases.

5. Compassionate, Personalized Service

We treat our clients like family. We understand the emotional toll of losing a loved one, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed throughout the process.

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, and our fee comes from the settlement or verdict—not your pocket.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

If Jacqueline Farmer’s family decides to pursue a wrongful death claim, here’s what they can expect:

1. Initial Consultation

The first step is to consult with an experienced trucking accident attorney. During this consultation:
– The attorney will review the facts of the case.
– The attorney will explain your legal rights and options.
– The attorney will answer your questions and address your concerns.
– If you decide to hire the attorney, you’ll sign a contingency fee agreement.

At Attorney911, we offer free consultations, and we’re available 24/7 to take your call.

2. Investigation

Once you hire an attorney, the investigation begins. This includes:
– Preserving Evidence: Sending spoliation letters to preserve black box data, ELD records, maintenance records, and other critical evidence.
– Gathering Records: Obtaining police reports, medical records, and other documentation.
– Interviewing Witnesses: Speaking to witnesses to gather their accounts of the accident.
– Consulting Experts: Working with accident reconstruction experts, medical experts, and other specialists to build your case.

3. Filing the Claim

Once the investigation is complete, your attorney will file a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company. The claim will include:
– A demand letter outlining the facts of the case and the compensation you’re seeking.
– Supporting documentation, such as medical records, expert reports, and witness statements.

4. Negotiation

The insurance company will review the claim and may make a settlement offer. Your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.

At Attorney911, we never accept lowball offers. We fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

5. Litigation (If Necessary)

If the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer, your attorney may file a lawsuit. The litigation process includes:
– Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions.
– Mediation: A neutral third party helps facilitate settlement negotiations.
– Trial: If a settlement cannot be reached, the case goes to trial, and a jury decides the outcome.

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

6. Resolution

Once a settlement or verdict is reached, your attorney will:
– Disburse the funds, paying medical bills, legal fees, and other expenses.
– Ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
– Close the case, allowing you to focus on healing and moving forward.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why We Fight for You

At Attorney911, we’re more than just lawyers—we’re advocates for justice. We’ve seen the devastation that trucking accidents cause, and we’re committed to holding negligent trucking companies accountable.

Here’s what sets us apart:

1. We Treat You Like Family

We understand the emotional toll of losing a loved one, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. You’ll have direct access to your attorney, and we’ll keep you informed throughout the process.

2. We Have Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes Lupe Peña, a former insurance defense attorney. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims and how to counter their tactics. This insider knowledge gives our clients a significant advantage in negotiations.

3. We Prepare Every Case for Trial

While most cases settle before trial, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready to fight for you in court if necessary.

4. We’ve Recovered Millions for Our Clients

We’ve recovered millions of dollars for families devastated by trucking accidents. Here are just a few examples:
– $5+ Million – Logging brain injury settlement.
– $3.8+ Million – Car accident amputation settlement.
– $2.5+ Million – Truck crash recovery.
– Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases.

5. We Work on a Contingency Fee Basis

We believe that everyone deserves access to justice, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we win your case.

6. We’re Available 24/7

Trucking accidents don’t wait for business hours, and neither do we. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and answer your questions.

Our Promise to You

At Attorney911, we promise to:
– Fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.
– Keep you informed every step of the way.
– Treat you like family, not just another case.
– Never back down from trucking companies or their insurers.
– Work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront.

We understand the pain and uncertainty you’re facing, and we’re here to help. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7, and we’re ready to fight for you.

Learn More About Trucking Accidents and Your Rights

For more information about trucking accidents and your legal rights, check out these resources from Attorney911:

• The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries – Learn about the unique challenges of trucking accident cases and how to protect your rights.
• Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck? – Understand your legal options if you’ve been injured in a trucking accident.
• The Definitive Guide to Commercial Truck Accidents – A comprehensive overview of commercial truck accidents and the regulations that govern them.
• Truck Tire Blowouts and When You Need a Lawyer – Learn about the dangers of tire blowouts and how to protect your rights if you’re injured in one.
• What to Do After a Car Accident – A step-by-step guide to protecting your rights after an accident.

We’re Here to Fight for You

At Attorney911, we understand the devastation that trucking accidents cause. We’ve seen families like Jacqueline’s torn apart by preventable tragedies, and we’re committed to holding negligent trucking companies accountable.

Ralph Manginello and our team of experienced attorneys are ready to fight for you. We’ll preserve evidence, identify all liable parties, and negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7, and we’re ready to stand by your side.

“Justice delayed is justice denied. Don’t let the trucking company get away with it. Call Attorney911 today.” — Ralph Manginello