A devastating truck accident in Milam County, Texas resulted in three deaths. The fatal crash occurred along Highway 36, near the Milam-Burleson County line, when according to reports an 18-wheeler collided with two stopped vehicles in a construction zone. Tragically, Clint McCaffety, 43, his wife Meghan, 39, and their 16-year-old son Connor were killed at the scene.
According to investigators with the Texas Department of Public Safety, the McCaffetys were stopped in traffic due to a flagger directing vehicles in a work zone. A second vehicle, a Kia SUV, was positioned directly behind them. A 26-year-old driver operating a Freightliner 18-wheeler reportedly failed to reduce speed as he approached the stopped traffic and crashed into both vehicles. The collision forced the Kia off the road and into a ditch, where it overturned. The driver of the SUV survived but was hospitalized with injuries.
This heartbreaking incident illustrates the devastating consequences that can result when commercial truck drivers fail to operate their vehicles safely, especially in and around construction zones. Highway work areas often require sudden stops or lane adjustments, making it critical for drivers — particularly those operating large vehicles like tractor-trailers — to remain alert, observe traffic patterns, and slow down accordingly. When they don’t, the outcome can be catastrophic, as it was for the McCaffety family.
The Hidden Dangers of Construction Zones and Commercial Trucks
Crashes involving 18-wheelers in construction zones are among the most dangerous types of roadway accidents. These environments often involve reduced speed limits, temporary lane changes, and narrowed roadways — all of which demand heightened awareness from drivers. Commercial trucks, due to their weight and size, require more time and distance to stop than standard vehicles. When operators speed or ignore visual cues from signage or flaggers, the results can be deadly.
In this case, early reports suggest the truck driver failed to control his speed while approaching stopped traffic, resulting in a rear-end collision. Whether distracted, fatigued, or otherwise negligent, this failure had fatal consequences. The responsibility for such collisions may not rest solely with the individual driver — the trucking company may also face liability if it failed to ensure proper training, scheduling, or vehicle maintenance.
Legal Options for Families Affected by Fatal Trucking Accidents
Families impacted by deadly trucking collisions often face overwhelming grief, compounded by financial stress and unanswered questions. When a crash results from driver negligence or failure to follow road safety protocols, surviving loved ones may have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. In cases like this, where victims were stopped lawfully in traffic and struck by a commercial truck, civil liability may seem clear — but a thorough investigation is always necessary.
A wrongful death claim can seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost financial support, emotional trauma, and more. Trucking accidents frequently involve multiple parties, including the driver, employer, vehicle owner, and insurance carriers, making these cases complex. Working with a legal team that understands the trucking industry and Texas law is critical for holding all responsible parties accountable.
Talk to a Texas Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At Spagnoletti Law Firm, our 18-wheeler crash lawyers represent families across Texas who have lost loved ones in tragic truck accidents. Our legal team investigates crashes thoroughly, identifies all liable parties, and fights to recover full compensation for grieving families. Fatal collisions like the one in Milam County are preventable — and we believe in holding negligent truck drivers and companies responsible. If your family has been affected by a serious or fatal 18-wheeler accident, we’re here to help.
📞 Call 713-804-9306 for a free consultation with a Texas truck accident attorney. There are no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.