Arlington, TX (February 13, 2025) – A woman lost her life after being hit by a vehicle while standing outside her stalled car on Interstate 20.
The fatal accident occurred at approximately 11:33 p.m. in the westbound lanes of I-20 near Matlock Road. According to the Arlington Police Department, officers arrived at the scene and found the woman unresponsive in the roadway. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators determined that the woman had been driving a 2006 Ford Mustang when her vehicle stalled and came to a stop sideways across two lanes of traffic. Witnesses reported that she exited the vehicle and was standing in the roadway when a 2024 Toyota Tundra struck both her and the Mustang.
The driver of the Tundra was transported to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. Police believe that, given the nighttime conditions and the position of the Mustang, the Tundra’s driver may not have seen the stalled vehicle before the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Our thoughts are with the family of the victim during this difficult time.
Dangers of Nighttime Highway Breakdowns in Texas
Highway accidents involving stalled vehicles are a serious concern, particularly at night when visibility is significantly reduced. Many drivers do not anticipate encountering a disabled car in their lane, making it difficult to react in time to prevent a collision. Situations like the one on I-20 in Arlington highlight the risks that stranded motorists face when exiting their vehicles in high-speed traffic zones.
Interstate highways, where speeds are often 65 mph or higher, leave little room for error when a vehicle becomes disabled. Drivers approaching stalled vehicles may struggle to see them in time, particularly if they are not fully pulled onto the shoulder. Poor lighting, limited reaction time, and high speeds all contribute to the severity of these crashes.
Authorities advise drivers who experience vehicle trouble to remain inside their cars with hazard lights activated and call for roadside assistance immediately. If exiting the vehicle becomes necessary, it is safest to move away from traffic and find a secure location. Proper emergency preparedness, such as carrying reflective warning triangles or emergency road flares, can also help alert oncoming drivers to a stalled vehicle’s presence.
With Texas highways experiencing high volumes of late-night traffic, it is essential for all drivers to stay alert and cautious. If you or someone you love has been involved in an accident, understanding your rights and available legal options can be crucial. For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.