What You Need to Know About Truck Accident Lawsuits in Dallas, TX
Truck accidents are some of the most devastating crashes on Texas roadways. In a matter of seconds, lives can be changed forever. The size and weight of commercial trucks make these collisions more dangerous and complex than typical car accidents. In Dallas, where major highways see heavy traffic from 18-wheelers and delivery trucks, knowing your rights and legal options after a truck accident is critical. Here’s everything you need to know about truck accident lawsuits in Dallas, TX.
Why Truck Accidents Are More Complex
Truck accidents differ from car accidents in several key ways:
- Multiple liable parties: Unlike standard car accidents, truck crashes can involve the driver, the trucking company, cargo loaders, and even the truck manufacturer.
- Federal and state regulations: Truck drivers and companies must follow specific laws enforced by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
- Extensive insurance coverage: Trucking companies usually carry high-limit insurance policies, meaning more is at stake for both sides.
- Severe injuries and damages: Victims often suffer catastrophic injuries that require long-term care and come with high medical expenses.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Dallas
Understanding what causes truck accidents can help determine who is responsible. Some of the most common causes include:
- Driver fatigue due to long hours and pressure to meet delivery deadlines
- Distracted driving, including texting, GPS use, or eating while driving
- Improper maintenance of brakes, tires, or other critical components
- Overloaded or improperly secured cargo
- Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers
- Speeding or aggressive driving behavior
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Truck accident lawsuits often involve multiple defendants:
- The truck driver if they were negligent or violated traffic laws
- The trucking company for negligent hiring, poor maintenance, or failure to follow safety regulations
- The cargo company for overloading or improperly securing cargo
- Vehicle or parts manufacturers if a defective component caused the crash
Each defendant may try to shift blame, which makes strong legal representation essential.
Evidence That Strengthens a Truck Accident Claim
A successful lawsuit depends on gathering clear and compelling evidence:
- Police reports and crash scene photos
- Eyewitness statements
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Truck black box data (ECM/EDR)
- Driver logs showing hours on the road
- Maintenance and inspection records
- Employment history and training documents
The sooner this evidence is collected, the better. Trucking companies often have legal teams ready to protect their interests immediately after a crash.
How Texas Law Impacts Your Case
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages if you were partially at fault—as long as you are less than 51% responsible. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Also, Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for filing personal injury lawsuits. Missing this deadline could mean forfeiting your right to seek compensation.
Types of Compensation You Can Seek
Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to various damages:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed)
Calculating the full value of your case requires understanding both economic and non-economic losses.
Why You Need an Experienced Dallas Truck Accident Attorney
Because of the legal complexities, trucking companies and their insurers aggressively defend these cases. An experienced truck accident attorney can:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Preserve and analyze evidence
- Identify all liable parties
- Handle negotiations with insurance adjusters
- Maximize the value of your settlement
- Represent you in court if a fair deal isn’t offered
McGilberry & Shirer LLP has handled thousands of personal injury cases across Dallas and Fort Worth, including high-stakes truck accident claims. We understand how to fight back against the tactics used by insurance carriers and corporate legal teams.
Real-World Truck Accident Case Results
We’ve helped clients in Texas recover millions in compensation. Some examples:
- $1.25 million for a client rear-ended by a semi-truck on I-35
- $950,000 settlement for a family injured by a speeding delivery truck
- $2.3 million awarded after a fatal truck collision caused by overloaded cargo
Every case is different, but our track record reflects our commitment to justice.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Dallas
- Call 911 and seek immediate medical care
- Document the scene (photos, witness names, insurance details)
- Avoid giving statements to the trucking company’s insurance
- Contact a personal injury lawyer before negotiating or signing anything
These steps protect your health, your rights, and your potential claim.
McGilberry & Shirer: The Best Truck Accident Attorneys in Dallas & Fort Worth
At McGilberry & Shirer, we know what it takes to win tough truck accident cases. Our legal team brings more than 60 years of combined experience to your corner. Whether you’re dealing with mounting bills, lost income, or lifelong injuries, we’re here to fight for every dollar you deserve.
We handle all communication with insurers and adjusters, gather crucial evidence, and build a strong case from day one. You focus on healing while we pursue justice.
Call McGilberry & Shirer LLP at 972-764-8675 for a free consultation and get the legal support you need from the best personal injury, car accident, truck accident, and bicycle accident attorneys in Dallas & Fort Worth.
