State v. Williams

Terry Williams sued the State of Texas alleging that he was injured when the truck he was driving ran over a sign lying face-down in the roadway, causing the right front tire to blow out and Williams to lose control. The district court rendered judgment on a verdict favoring Williams, and the court of appeals affirmed. 932 S.W.2d 546.

The district court instructed the jury as follows:

With respect to the condition of the roadway, the State Department of Highways and Public Transportation was negligent if:

a. The obstruction caused an unreasonable risk of harm, and

b. The State Department of…