Tragedy on State Highway 78: How a U-Turn Turned Deadly in Bonham, Texas

The Crash That Changed Everything

It was a Saturday morning like any other in Fannin County. Nancy Malone, 85, was driving northbound on State Highway 78 near County Road 2510, just north of Bonham. She made a U-turn—perhaps to head back to Van Alstyne, perhaps to correct a wrong turn.

What happened next was catastrophic.

An 18-wheeler, driven by Woodrow Dallas, 57, of Sherman, was traveling in the same direction. The truck’s trailer struck Malone’s vehicle. The impact was immediate and devastating. Malone was pronounced dead at the scene.

Woodrow Dallas was taken to Texoma Medical Center with injuries. The truck, now a symbol of tragedy, remained on the scene as investigators began piecing together what went wrong.

This wasn’t just an accident. It was a preventable tragedy—one that raises serious questions about road safety, driver awareness, and the responsibilities of commercial carriers operating on Texas highways.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen this pattern before. U-turns and commercial trucks are a dangerous combination. The physics are simple: an 80,000-pound truck can’t stop like a passenger car. The legal implications are complex: multiple parties may be liable, and evidence disappears quickly.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident on Texas highways, you need to understand your rights—and you need to act fast.

The Legal Implications: Who’s Responsible?

In the aftermath of a tragedy like this, determining liability is complex. Multiple parties may share responsibility for the accident and the resulting injuries or death.

The Truck Driver: Woodrow Dallas

Woodrow Dallas, 57, of Sherman, was the driver of the 18-wheeler involved in this accident. While the Texas Department of Public Safety’s report doesn’t specify fault, several factors will be investigated:

Was the driver fatigued?
Federal Hours of Service (HOS) regulations limit how long commercial drivers can operate:
– Maximum 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– Cannot drive beyond the 14th consecutive hour after coming on duty
– 30-minute break required after 8 cumulative hours of driving
– 60/70-hour weekly limits

Violations of these regulations are among the most common causes of trucking accidents. If Dallas was driving beyond his legal limits, both he and his employer could be held liable.

Was the driver distracted?
Distracted driving is a leading cause of trucking accidents. Federal regulations prohibit:
– Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving (49 CFR § 392.82)
– Texting while driving (49 CFR § 392.80)

If Dallas was using a phone or other electronic device at the time of the accident, this would constitute a serious violation.

Did the driver fail to maintain proper lookout?
Truck drivers have a duty to maintain a proper lookout for other vehicles, especially in areas where U-turns are possible. Failure to do so could constitute negligence.

Was the driver properly trained?
Commercial drivers must be trained on:
– Vehicle operation and control
– Hours of service regulations
– Hazard perception and avoidance
– Emergency maneuvers
– Cargo securement

If Dallas wasn’t properly trained on these critical safety aspects, his employer could be liable for negligent training.

The Cargo Owner and Loading Company

If the truck was carrying cargo, additional parties may be involved:

Cargo Owner:
The company that owned the cargo may be liable if:
– They provided improper loading instructions
– They failed to disclose hazardous materials
– They required overweight loading
– They pressured the carrier to meet unrealistic delivery schedules

Loading Company:
Third-party loading companies may be liable if:
– They improperly secured the cargo
– They created an unbalanced load
– They exceeded weight limits
– They failed to use proper blocking, bracing, or tiedowns

Government Entities

In some cases, government entities may share liability:

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT):
– Road design defects that contributed to the accident
– Failure to maintain safe road conditions
– Inadequate signage warning of U-turn hazards
– Failure to install protective barriers

Local Government:
– Failure to maintain road markings
– Inadequate traffic control devices
– Failure to address known hazards

Government liability is complex due to sovereign immunity protections, but in cases of clear negligence, legal action may be possible.

Part 393: Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation

49 CFR § 393.11 – Lighting Devices and Reflectors:
Commercial vehicles must have properly functioning lighting systems to ensure visibility. If the truck involved in this accident had lighting issues that contributed to the crash, this regulation was violated.

49 CFR § 393.48 – Brakes:
“Every commercial motor vehicle must have brakes adequate to stop and hold the vehicle or combination of motor vehicles.”

Brake failures are a leading cause of trucking accidents. If the truck’s brakes were not properly maintained or adjusted, this regulation was violated.

49 CFR § 393.75 – Tires:
“Every commercial motor vehicle must be equipped with tires of adequate capacity to support the maximum load which may be imposed on the tires.”

Tire blowouts can cause loss of control. If the truck’s tires were worn or improperly maintained, this regulation was violated.

Part 396: Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

49 CFR § 396.3 – General:
“Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”

This regulation establishes the duty of trucking companies to maintain their vehicles in safe operating condition.

49 CFR § 396.11 – Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR):
“Every driver shall, each day, prepare a report in writing on each vehicle operated, except for intermodal equipment tendered by an intermodal equipment provider.”

These reports document the condition of the vehicle and any defects noted. If Dallas failed to conduct proper inspections or ignored known defects, this would constitute negligence.

Physical Evidence

The Truck and Trailer:
The physical condition of the truck can reveal:
– Brake system deficiencies
– Tire condition and tread depth
– Lighting system functionality
– Cargo securement issues
– Mechanical defects

The Accident Scene:
– Skid marks showing braking and evasive maneuvers
– Debris patterns indicating point of impact
– Road conditions and signage
– Visibility obstructions

The Vehicles:
– Damage patterns showing how the collision occurred
– Interior damage indicating force of impact
– Airbag deployment data

The Injuries That Result from These Accidents

Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the massive size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

What It Is:
TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In trucking accidents, the extreme forces can cause the brain to impact the inside of the skull.

Severity Levels:
– Mild (Concussion): Confusion, headache, brief loss of consciousness
– Moderate: Extended unconsciousness, memory problems, cognitive deficits
– Severe: Extended coma, permanent cognitive impairment

Common Symptoms:
– Headaches and dizziness
– Memory loss and confusion
– Difficulty concentrating
– Mood changes, depression, anxiety
– Sleep disturbances
– Sensory problems (vision, hearing, taste)
– Speech difficulties
– Personality changes

Long-Term Consequences:
– Permanent cognitive impairment
– Inability to work
– Need for ongoing care and supervision
– Increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s
– Depression and emotional disorders

Lifetime Care Costs: $85,000 to $3,000,000+ depending on severity

Amputation

Types of Amputation:
– Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at the scene due to crash forces
– Surgical Amputation: Limb so severely damaged it must be surgically removed

Ongoing Medical Needs:
– Initial surgery and hospitalization
– Prosthetic limbs ($5,000 – $50,000+ per prosthetic)
– Replacement prosthetics throughout lifetime
– Physical therapy and rehabilitation
– Occupational therapy for daily living skills
– Psychological counseling

Impact on Life:
– Permanent disability
– Career limitations or total disability
– Phantom limb pain
– Body image and psychological trauma
– Need for home modifications
– Dependency on others for daily activities

Internal Organ Damage

Common Internal Injuries:
– Liver laceration or rupture
– Spleen damage requiring removal
– Kidney damage
– Lung contusion or collapse (pneumothorax)
– Internal bleeding (hemorrhage)
– Bowel and intestinal damage

Why Dangerous:
– May not show immediate symptoms
– Internal bleeding can be life-threatening
– Requires emergency surgery
– Organ removal affects long-term health

The Legal Process: What Happens Next?

If you’re involved in a trucking accident, understanding the legal process can help you navigate this difficult time.

Immediate Steps

1. Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Get checked out at a hospital or urgent care.

2. Document the Scene:
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
– All vehicles involved
– Damage to each vehicle
– The accident scene (road conditions, signage, skid marks)
– Your injuries
– Witness contact information

3. Report the Accident:
Call 911 and file a police report. In Texas, you must report an accident if there’s injury, death, or property damage that prevents a vehicle from being safely driven.

4. Don’t Give Statements:
Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim.

5. Contact an Attorney:
The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Critical evidence can disappear within days.

Demand and Negotiation

Demand Letter:
We send a comprehensive demand letter to the insurance companies outlining:
– The facts of the accident
– The liable parties
– The injuries and damages
– The legal basis for the claim
– The amount of compensation sought

Negotiation:
We negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies to reach a fair settlement. Most cases settle at this stage.

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Trucking Accident Case?

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for trucking accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has secured multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for families devastated by 18-wheeler crashes.

Our Experience

25+ Years of Trucking Litigation:
Ralph Manginello has been handling commercial vehicle accident cases since 1998. He understands the complexities of trucking law and knows how to hold negligent carriers accountable.

Federal Court Experience:
Ralph is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas—a critical advantage for interstate trucking cases that may be filed in federal court.

Insider Knowledge:
Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how trucking companies and their insurers operate. He uses that insider knowledge to fight for maximum compensation for our clients.

Proven Results:
We’ve recovered millions for trucking accident victims, including:
– $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

Our Commitment to You

Personal Attention:
At Attorney911, you’re not just a case number. You’re family. We treat every client with the compassion and respect they deserve.

24/7 Availability:
Trucking accidents don’t happen on a 9-to-5 schedule. Neither do we. We’re available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.

No Fee Unless We Win:
We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we win your case. We advance all costs of investigation and litigation.

Bilingual Services:
Our associate attorney Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. We provide direct representation without interpreters. Hablamos Español.

$462 Million Verdict: Missouri 2024

In 2024, a Missouri jury awarded $462 million in an underride accident case. Two men were decapitated when their vehicle slid under a truck’s trailer.

Why It Matters:
This case highlighted the dangers of inadequate underride guards. The jury found the manufacturer liable for failing to design safe guards.

Relevance to This Case:
While this specific incident didn’t involve an underride, it demonstrates the potential for massive verdicts when manufacturers fail to prioritize safety.

$150 Million Settlement: Texas 2022

In 2022, Werner Enterprises settled for $150 million after two children were killed in a crash on I-30. This remains the largest 18-wheeler settlement in U.S. history.

Why It Matters:
The case involved multiple violations of federal regulations, including hours of service violations and falsified log books.

Relevance to This Case:
If Woodrow Dallas was violating hours of service regulations or falsifying logs, this case demonstrates the potential for significant settlements.

The Cost of Negligence Is Rising

Average Trucking Verdict (2020-2023): $27.5 Million
Median Nuclear Verdict (2022): $36 Million
Verdicts Over $10M: Increasing 6.4% annually

What This Means for You:
If you’re injured in a trucking accident, your case may be worth significantly more than you think. Insurance companies know this—which is why they fight so hard to minimize claims.

How This Incident Reflects Broader Dangers on Texas Highways

While this tragedy occurred near Bonham, the same dangers exist across Texas. Our state’s highways are among the most dangerous in the nation for trucking accidents.

Texas: The Most Dangerous State for Trucking Accidents

Texas Trucking Statistics:
– Highest truck traffic in the U.S.
– I-35: #1 truck route in the nation (NAFTA corridor)
– I-10: Gulf Coast corridor with massive freight volume
– Port of Houston: #1 U.S. port in foreign tonnage
– Permian Basin: Oil field trucking creating heavy freight

Texas Trucking Fatalities:
– Texas consistently leads the nation in trucking-related fatalities
– In 2022, Texas had 643 fatal crashes involving large trucks
– That’s more than California and Florida combined

Why Texas Is So Dangerous:
– High truck volume: Texas is the crossroads of North American freight
– Long distances: Drivers push limits to meet schedules
– Oil field trucking: The Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale create heavy freight traffic
– Port traffic: The Port of Houston generates massive truck transfers
– Border crossings: Laredo is the busiest border crossing in the Western Hemisphere

The U-Turn Hazard: A Statewide Problem

U-turn accidents involving commercial trucks are a significant problem across Texas. These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or death for the occupants of passenger vehicles.

Common U-Turn Scenarios:
– Correcting a wrong turn: Driver realizes they missed their destination and makes a U-turn
– Accessing a business: Driver turns around to enter a business on the opposite side
– Avoiding congestion: Driver makes a U-turn to avoid traffic or construction
– Emergency maneuvers: Driver turns around due to vehicle issues or medical emergencies

Why They’re So Dangerous:
– Limited visibility: Trucks have significant blind spots
– Stopping distance: Trucks can’t stop quickly to avoid U-turning vehicles
– Trailer tracking: Trailers don’t follow the exact path of the cab
– Driver fatigue: Fatigued drivers have slower reaction times
– Road design: Many Texas roads weren’t designed for frequent U-turns

Prevention Strategies:
– For passenger vehicle drivers:
– Avoid U-turns on highways and high-speed roads
– Use designated U-turn areas when available
– Check for trucks before turning
– Signal your intentions clearly
– Make U-turns only when you have clear visibility

• For truck drivers:
• Maintain proper lookout for vehicles making U-turns
• Reduce speed in areas where U-turns are common
• Use hazard lights to warn of sudden maneuvers
• Maintain safe following distances
• Avoid distractions

The Legal Implications for Fannin County

Statute of Limitations:
In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death claims is 2 years from the date of the accident. This means the Malone family has until February 22, 2028, to file a lawsuit. However, evidence disappears quickly, so action should be taken immediately.

Comparative Negligence:
Texas follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means:
– If the plaintiff is less than 51% at fault, they can recover damages
– Their recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault
– If the plaintiff is 51% or more at fault, they cannot recover anything

In this case, if Nancy Malone was found to be partially at fault for making the U-turn, her family’s recovery could be reduced—but not necessarily eliminated.

Potential Damages:
If liability is established, the Malone family could recover:
– Economic damages: Medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income
– Non-economic damages: Loss of companionship, mental anguish, pain and suffering
– Punitive damages: If gross negligence is proven

What You Should Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Incident

If you or a loved one is involved in a trucking accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and your case.

Immediate Steps

1. Call 911:
Report the accident and request medical assistance. In Texas, you must report an accident if there’s injury, death, or property damage that prevents a vehicle from being safely driven.

2. Seek Medical Attention:
Even if you feel fine, get checked out at a hospital or urgent care. Internal injuries, TBI, and spinal injuries may not show symptoms immediately.

3. Document the Scene:
If you’re able, take photos and videos of:
– All vehicles involved
– Damage to each vehicle
– The accident scene (road conditions, signage, skid marks)
– Your injuries
– Witness contact information

4. Get Driver and Truck Information:
Collect:
– The truck driver’s name, CDL number, and contact information
– The trucking company’s name and DOT number
– The truck and trailer license plate numbers
– Insurance information

5. Don’t Give Statements:
Do not give recorded statements to insurance companies. Anything you say can be used against you to minimize your claim.

6. Contact an Attorney:
The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Critical evidence can disappear within days.

Long-Term Considerations

1. Understand the Statute of Limitations:
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, evidence disappears quickly, so don’t wait.

2. Be Patient:
Trucking accident cases often take 1-3 years to resolve. Don’t rush to accept a lowball settlement.

3. Prepare for Litigation:
Most cases settle, but be prepared for the possibility of going to trial. Choose an attorney with trial experience.

4. Consider the Full Impact:
Don’t settle until you understand the full extent of your injuries and their long-term impact on your life.

5. Explore All Avenues of Recovery:
Multiple parties may be liable. Your attorney should investigate all potentially responsible parties.

Our Track Record Speaks for Itself

Multi-Million Dollar Results:
– $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

Client Satisfaction:
– 251+ Google reviews with a 4.9-star average
– Testimonials praising our personal attention and results

Industry Recognition:
– Trial Lawyers Achievement Association Million Dollar Member
– Featured in major media outlets including KHOU 11, ABC13, and the Houston Chronicle

The Time to Act Is Now

If you or a loved one has been involved in a trucking accident, the time to act is now. Evidence disappears quickly, and the trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests.

Why You Can’t Wait

1. Evidence Disappears Fast:
– ECM data can be overwritten in 30 days
– ELD data may be retained for only 6 months
– Dashcam footage is often deleted within 7-14 days
– Surveillance video from nearby businesses typically overwrites in 7-30 days

2. Witness Memories Fade:
Witnesses forget details quickly. The sooner we interview them, the more accurate their testimony will be.

3. The Trucking Company Is Already Working Against You:
Trucking companies have rapid-response teams that begin protecting their interests within hours of an accident.

4. The Statute of Limitations Is Ticking:
In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. But evidence disappears much faster.

Our Promise to You

At Attorney911, we understand what you’re going through. We’ve helped hundreds of families navigate the aftermath of trucking accidents, and we’re ready to help you too.

Here’s what we promise:

1. We’ll Listen:
We’ll take the time to understand your story and your needs.

2. We’ll Investigate:
We’ll leave no stone unturned in investigating your case.

3. We’ll Fight:
We’ll fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.

4. We’ll Communicate:
We’ll keep you informed every step of the way.

5. We’ll Deliver:
We’ll work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Learn More: Attorney911 Video Resources

At Attorney911, we’re committed to educating the public about their legal rights. Here are some of our most helpful videos on trucking accidents and related topics:

The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wxEHIxZTbK8

This comprehensive guide explains what to do after an 18-wheeler accident, the dangers of dealing with trucking companies, and how to protect your rights.

Can I Sue for Being Hit by a Semi Truck?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0MT3CKbUb4

Learn the critical steps to take after being hit by a semi truck, including how to preserve evidence and why you should never talk to insurance companies without an attorney.

The Definitive Guide To Commercial Truck Accidents

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEEeZf-k8Ao

Understand the different classes of commercial vehicles, federal insurance requirements, and why you almost always need an attorney to receive full compensation.

What Should You Not Say to an Insurance Adjuster?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UKRbFprB0E

Insurance companies are NOT on your side. Learn what not to say to an insurance adjuster and why their first offer is always a lowball.

The Ultimate Guide to Brain Injury Lawsuits

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBYAHi5aiEQ

Traumatic brain injuries are common in trucking accidents. This guide explains the symptoms, long-term consequences, and legal process for TBI claims.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The tragedy on State Highway 78 is a stark reminder of the dangers that exist on our roads. When negligence leads to tragedy, the responsible parties must be held accountable.

At Attorney911, we’ve dedicated our careers to fighting for victims of trucking accidents. We understand the complexities of these cases, and we know how to hold negligent carriers accountable.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident, you don’t have to face this alone. We’re here to help.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We answer 24/7.

The time to act is now. Evidence disappears fast, and the trucking company is already working against you. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.