Madison County, TX (March 4, 2025) – A fatal multi-vehicle crash involving a Federal Express 18-wheeler on northbound Interstate 45 near the Madison-Walker county line left one woman dead and caused significant traffic delays.
Accident Details: According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Sgt. Justin Ruiz, authorities were notified of the crash at approximately 9:15 a.m. when a 2021 Peterbilt 18-wheeler pulling a trailer approached a stretch of slowed traffic but could not stop in time. To avoid rear-ending the vehicle in front, the truck driver swerved into another lane, striking multiple vehicles. One of the impacted vehicles was a 2019 Jeep Wrangler occupied by 77-year-old Maureen Fulton of Huntsville, who tragically died at the scene.
Legal Considerations: The Texas (DPS) is still investigating the cause of the crash. Truck drivers must maintain a safe following distance to account for the longer stopping distances of large commercial vehicles. Investigators will assess whether distraction, fatigue, or exceeding federal Hours-of-Service (HOS) limits played a role. Truck drivers must comply with strict federal regulations on driving hours, but pressure to meet delivery schedules can sometimes lead to violations. If the driver had been on the road too long, was fatigued, or was distracted by a phone or in-cab technology, they may have failed to react to stopped traffic.
Investigation: To determine the cause of the crash, investigators will analyze several critical pieces of evidence. The truck’s electronic control module will provide data on speed, braking, and steering inputs before the collision. Authorities will also review maintenance logs to check whether the truck’s brakes, tires, and other safety systems were in proper working condition. Additionally, the driver’s hour logs will be scrutinized to ensure they were operating within legal driving limits and was not fatigued at the time of the crash.
If investigators find negligence was the cause of this fatal crash, Maureen Fulton’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim.
I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Maureen Fulton.
Source: Fox 44 News