Fatal Dump Truck Crash in New Braunfels: Why This Tragedy Could Happen on Austin’s Roads Too
The afternoon of February 23, 2026, started like any other in New Braunfels. Stephanie Madzy, a 60-year-old woman, was simply going about her day. At the intersection of North Seguin Avenue and Mill Street, she stepped into the crosswalk—just as a dump truck, driven by 60-year-old Jude T. Jones, approached a red light.
What happened next was catastrophic.
Jones, operating a heavy dump truck, failed to yield the right-of-way to pedestrians. As he made a right turn, his vehicle struck Madzy. First responders arrived within minutes, but despite lifesaving measures, Madzy succumbed to her injuries.
Jones was detained and charged with criminally negligent homicide. He now sits in the Comal County Jail, awaiting further legal proceedings. But for Madzy’s family, no criminal charge can bring her back.
This wasn’t just a tragic accident—it was a preventable disaster caused by a driver’s failure to follow basic traffic laws and federal safety regulations. And while this incident occurred in New Braunfels, the same dangers exist right here in Austin, Travis County, Texas.
At Attorney911, we’ve seen far too many cases like this—where a moment of negligence by a commercial driver changes lives forever. With our 25+ years of experience fighting for victims of trucking accidents, we know exactly how these cases unfold, why they happen, and how to hold the responsible parties accountable.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Austin, Travis County, Texas, you need an attorney who understands the complexities of these cases. Call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Evidence disappears fast—don’t wait until it’s too late.
Why This Tragedy Could Happen in Austin, Travis County, Texas
New Braunfels is just 50 miles south of Austin, and the dangers that led to this crash exist right here in our community. Here’s why Austin, Travis County, Texas drivers and pedestrians face the same risks:
1. Austin’s Growing Construction and Dump Truck Traffic
Austin is booming. With rapid population growth comes an explosion in construction—new roads, new buildings, new infrastructure. And where there’s construction, there are dump trucks.
- Construction Zones: Dump trucks are a constant presence in Austin’s construction zones, from I-35 expansion projects to downtown high-rise developments. These areas are often crowded with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles.
- Urban Routes: Dump trucks frequently travel through Austin’s urban corridors, including:
- I-35: One of the busiest highways in Texas, with heavy construction and pedestrian crossings near downtown.
- MoPac Expressway (Loop 1): A major north-south route with construction projects and pedestrian traffic.
- US-183: Another high-traffic corridor with construction zones and pedestrian crossings.
- Downtown Austin: Where pedestrians, cyclists, and commercial vehicles share the road in close quarters.
In these environments, a moment of distraction or a failure to yield can have deadly consequences—just like it did in New Braunfels.
2. Pedestrian and Cyclist Vulnerability in Austin
Austin is a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly city, but that also means more people are at risk of being struck by commercial vehicles.
- High Pedestrian Traffic: Areas like downtown Austin, the University of Texas campus, and South Congress Avenue see heavy pedestrian traffic. These are also areas where dump trucks and other commercial vehicles operate.
- Bike Lanes: Austin has an extensive network of bike lanes, but many of them run alongside or intersect with roads used by dump trucks. Cyclists are especially vulnerable in these situations.
- Crosswalk Dangers: Austin has made strides in improving pedestrian infrastructure, but not all crosswalks are well-marked or protected. When a dump truck fails to yield at a crosswalk, the results can be catastrophic.
3. Austin’s Trucking Corridors Are Just as Dangerous
Austin sits at the crossroads of some of the busiest trucking routes in the country. I-35, in particular, is a major freight corridor that connects Mexico to Canada. Dump trucks, 18-wheelers, and other commercial vehicles use these routes daily, creating a high-risk environment for accidents.
- I-35: This interstate runs right through the heart of Austin and is one of the most dangerous highways in Texas for trucking accidents. Construction, congestion, and high speeds make it a hotspot for crashes.
- US-183: Another major route for commercial traffic, especially dump trucks serving construction sites.
- SH-130: A toll road designed to divert truck traffic from I-35, but it’s not immune to accidents.
- Local Roads: Dump trucks frequently travel on local roads to reach construction sites, increasing the risk of pedestrian and cyclist accidents.
4. The Same Regulatory Failures Exist Here
The FMCSA regulations that may have been violated in New Braunfels apply equally to Austin, Travis County, Texas. Unfortunately, we see the same patterns of negligence here:
- Fatigued Driving: Dump truck drivers in Austin often work long hours, especially in the construction industry. Fatigue is a leading cause of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Cell phone use, dispatch communications, and in-cab electronics distract drivers and contribute to crashes.
- Poor Training: Some trucking companies cut corners on training to save money, putting untrained or inexperienced drivers behind the wheel.
- Negligent Maintenance: Dump trucks require regular maintenance to ensure brakes, mirrors, and other safety systems are functioning properly. When companies skip maintenance to save costs, accidents happen.
The Legal Process: What Happens Next?
The criminal case against Jones is just one part of the legal process. For Madzy’s family, a civil wrongful death lawsuit is likely the next step. Here’s what that process looks like:
1. Investigation and Evidence Preservation
The first step in any trucking accident case is preserving evidence. This includes:
– ECM/Black Box Data: Dump trucks, like all commercial vehicles, have electronic control modules (ECMs) that record data like speed, braking, and throttle position. This data can prove whether Jones was speeding or failed to brake in time.
– ELD Records: If Jones was required to use an Electronic Logging Device (ELD), these records can show whether he was fatigued or violated hours-of-service regulations.
– Driver Qualification File: This file contains Jones’ employment history, driving record, medical certification, and training records. It can reveal whether he was qualified to drive the dump truck.
– Maintenance Records: These records show whether the truck was properly maintained and whether any defects were ignored.
– Cell Phone Records: These can prove whether Jones was distracted by his phone at the time of the crash.
– Surveillance Footage: Nearby businesses or traffic cameras may have captured the crash.
At Attorney911, we send spoliation letters immediately to preserve this evidence before it’s destroyed. In trucking cases, evidence disappears fast—sometimes within days.
2. Filing the Wrongful Death Lawsuit
Madzy’s family can file a wrongful death lawsuit against Jones and any other liable parties. In Texas, wrongful death claims can recover damages for:
– Lost Income: The financial support Madzy would have provided to her family.
– Loss of Consortium: The loss of companionship, love, and guidance for her surviving family members.
– Mental Anguish: The emotional pain and suffering caused by her death.
– Funeral and Burial Expenses: The costs associated with her funeral and burial.
– Punitive Damages: If Jones’ actions were grossly negligent or reckless, punitive damages may be awarded to punish him and deter similar conduct.
3. Discovery and Depositions
During discovery, both sides exchange evidence and take depositions (sworn testimony). This is where the truth comes out. We’ll depose:
– Jude T. Jones: To get his version of events and look for inconsistencies.
– Witnesses: To corroborate Madzy’s movements and Jones’ actions.
– Trucking Company Representatives: To uncover safety violations, training deficiencies, and maintenance failures.
– Experts: Accident reconstructionists, medical experts, and economists to build the strongest possible case.
4. Settlement Negotiations or Trial
Most trucking accident cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know which lawyers are willing to go to court—and they offer better settlements to clients with trial-ready attorneys.
If the case goes to trial, a jury will decide:
– Whether Jones was negligent,
– Whether his negligence caused Madzy’s death, and
– How much compensation her family should receive.
What Austin, Travis County, Texas Families Need to Know
If you’ve lost a loved one in a trucking accident—or if you’ve been seriously injured—here’s what you need to know:
1. You Have Legal Rights
Texas law allows you to seek compensation for:
– Medical expenses,
– Lost wages,
– Pain and suffering,
– Loss of companionship, and
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence).
2. Evidence Disappears Fast
In trucking cases, critical evidence can be destroyed within days. If you’ve been in an accident:
– Call an attorney immediately. We send spoliation letters to preserve evidence before it’s lost.
– Don’t give a recorded statement to the insurance company. They’ll use it against you.
– Seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.
3. Multiple Parties May Be Liable
Don’t assume the driver is the only one at fault. The trucking company, cargo owner, maintenance provider, and even the truck manufacturer could share liability.
4. Trucking Companies Have Teams of Lawyers
The moment a crash happens, the trucking company’s rapid-response team springs into action. They’ll investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and start building their defense. You need someone on your side who knows their tactics.
5. You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all the costs of investigation and litigation, so you can focus on healing.
What to Do If You’ve Been in a Trucking Accident in Austin, Travis County, Texas
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident, follow these steps:
-
Call 911 Immediately
– Report the accident and request medical assistance.
– A police report is critical for documenting the scene and determining fault. -
Seek Medical Attention
– Even if you feel fine, some injuries (like TBI or internal bleeding) don’t show symptoms immediately.
– Medical records are essential for proving the extent of your injuries. -
Document the Scene
– Take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, and your injuries.
– Get the names and contact information of witnesses.
– Note the trucking company’s name, the truck’s DOT number, and the driver’s information. -
Don’t Give a Recorded Statement
– The trucking company’s insurance adjuster will call you quickly. They’re trained to minimize your claim.
– Never give a recorded statement without consulting an attorney first. -
Call Attorney911 Immediately
– Evidence disappears fast in trucking cases. The sooner you call us, the stronger your case will be.
– We’ll send a spoliation letter to preserve critical evidence before it’s destroyed.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Let the Trucking Company Win
Trucking companies have teams of lawyers working to protect their interests. They’ll investigate the scene, interview witnesses, and start building their defense—all while you’re dealing with the aftermath of a devastating accident.
You need someone on your side who knows their tactics.
At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for victims of trucking accidents for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has recovered multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families just like yours. We know how to hold trucking companies accountable—and we’re not afraid to go to trial if that’s what it takes to get you the compensation you deserve.
Evidence disappears fast. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a trucking accident in Austin, Travis County, Texas, call us immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer calls 24/7, and we work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
Learn More About Trucking Accidents
Want to learn more 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 dangers of trucking accidents and how to protect your rights.
- Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?: Understand your legal options after a trucking accident.
- The Definitive Guide to Commercial Truck Accidents: A comprehensive overview of trucking accident cases.
- What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?: Protect your claim by avoiding common mistakes.
Offices Serving Austin, Travis County, Texas
Attorney911 has offices across Texas to serve you:
- Houston: 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027
- Austin: 316 West 12th Street, Suite 311, Austin, TX 78701-1844
- Beaumont: Available for client meetings
Final Thoughts: Justice for Stephanie Madzy—and for You
Stephanie Madzy’s death was preventable. If Jude T. Jones had followed the rules, if his employer had trained him properly, if the truck had been properly maintained—she might still be alive today.
But for Madzy’s family, no amount of money can bring her back. The best they can hope for is justice—holding the responsible parties accountable and preventing this from happening to someone else.
If you’ve been injured in a trucking accident, you deserve that same justice. You deserve an attorney who will fight for you, who knows the trucking industry inside and out, and who isn’t afraid to take on big corporations.
That’s what we do at Attorney911.
Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We’re here to help.