There was a deadly accident involving a FedEx truck in Madison County, Texas on March 4, 2025. According to reports, a FedEx 18-wheeler traveling northbound on Interstate 45 struck multiple cars before rolling over. The Texas Department of Public Safety indicates the 18-wheeler approached slower traffic on the highway. The vehicle attempted to change lanes to try and avoid rear-ending the car in front of it, but struck multiple other vehicles in the process. The driver of one of the cars that was hit was killed as a result of the impact. The victim has been identified as Maureen Fulton, of Huntsville. Additional details have not yet been released. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those impacted by this deadly accident.
Highway accidents involving large commercial trucks often result in catastrophic outcomes due to the size, weight, and speed of these vehicles. In this tragic collision on Interstate 45, early reports suggest that the FedEx 18-wheeler was traveling at highway speeds when it encountered slower-moving traffic ahead. Large trucks require significantly longer stopping distances than passenger vehicles, particularly when fully loaded. If the truck driver did not have enough time or space to slow down safely, they may have been forced into a last-second lane change, creating a dangerous situation for other drivers nearby. One risk of accidents like this one is the 18-wheeler may rollover after a collision.
One potential factor in this crash is inadequate following distance. Commercial truck drivers are trained to maintain safe spacing between their vehicle and those ahead of them to allow time for braking in case of traffic slowdowns. However, if the FedEx truck was traveling too close to the vehicle in front of it, the driver may have had limited options when traffic slowed. Instead of braking suddenly—which could have caused a jackknife or loss of control—the driver attempted to swerve into another lane, leading to the chain-reaction crash that followed.
Lane-changing maneuvers at highway speeds pose serious risks, particularly for large trucks with limited visibility and extensive blind spots. If the driver attempted to merge without fully checking surrounding traffic, they may have inadvertently struck vehicles in adjacent lanes. The force of an 18-wheeler sideswiping or colliding with smaller cars can be devastating, as these vehicles are not built to withstand the impact of a multi-ton truck. Investigators will likely assess whether the truck driver checked mirrors properly, used turn signals, or had enough clearance to change lanes safely.
Another critical aspect of the investigation will focus on driver fatigue or distraction. Long-haul truck drivers often work extended shifts under strict delivery deadlines, increasing the likelihood of delayed reaction times or impaired judgment. If the driver was fatigued, using a mobile device, or otherwise distracted, their ability to react to slowing traffic and changing road conditions could have been significantly reduced. Authorities may review driver logs, onboard vehicle data, and any available dashcam footage to determine whether distraction or exhaustion played a role.
Finally, road and traffic conditions at the time of the crash could also be contributing factors. If there was construction, lane closures, or sudden congestion, the truck driver may have had limited time to react. Additionally, weather conditions, road surface quality, and visibility levels will be examined to determine whether external factors played a role. Regardless of the cause, this tragic accident highlights the immense responsibility commercial truck drivers have in ensuring safe driving practices to prevent deadly collisions like this one.
After an 18-wheeler crash, speaking with an experienced truck accident lawyer is critical to understanding your legal rights and options. Accidents involving commercial trucks are far more complex than standard car crashes, as they can involve multiple liable parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, vehicle manufacturers, and cargo loaders. Usually, trucking companies and their insurers immediately begin investigating after a crash, often working to minimize their liability. A lawyer can help preserve crucial evidence, such as black box data, driver logs, and maintenance records, while ensuring that accident victims or their families receive the full financial recovery they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Without legal representation, victims risk facing aggressive tactics designed to settle for far less than what they are owed.
There have been a number of recent accidents involving vehicles, resulting in severe injuries and sometimes death. There was a crash involving an 18-wheeler in Live Oak County, Texas on February 5, 2025. A FedEx 18-wheeler struck a sixteen year old pedestrian in Spring, Texas on February 19, 2025. There was an accident involving a 18-wheeler in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana on February 25, 2025. There was a deadly accident involving a box truck south of Kirbyville, Texas on February 27, 2025.
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, we understand the devastation that follows a serious car, truck, or bus accident—and we are here to fight for you. With attorneys licensed in Texas, Florida, New Mexico, and New York, our experienced legal team has successfully handled countless cases involving severe auto accidents, commercial vehicle crashes, and tragic losses. Whether you or a loved one has suffered life-changing injuries or you are grieving the loss of a family member, we are committed to providing the strong, compassionate legal representation you deserve.
Don’t wait to seek justice—contact Spagnoletti Law Firm today. Call 713-804-9306 or reach out online for a free consultation and take the first step toward securing your future.