When a truck accident occurs, the damage is often devastating, leaving victims with severe injuries, financial burdens, and emotional scars. At Patterson Law Group, we know how critical it is to have a dedicated legal team by your side.
As a leading truck accident lawyer in Dallas, we’re here to fight for justice and the compensation you deserve. With our experience and client-focused approach, we handle every case with the attention and dedication it deserves.
The Realities of Truck Accidents in Dallas
Truck accidents aren’t just more destructive than regular car accidents and are more complex to handle legally. Texas has one of the highest rates of fatal truck accidents in the United States.
In 2023, there were over 20,000 fatal and non-fatal truck accidents across the state. Many of these crashes occurred in Dallas, a busy hub for freight and logistics. Unfortunately, the size and weight of trucks make collisions far more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Contributing Factors to Dallas Truck Accidents
Several factors contribute to the high rate of truck accidents, including driver fatigue, mechanical failures, speeding, and impaired driving. These issues often stem from the industry’s high-pressure environment, where drivers and companies are pushed to meet tight deadlines.
- Driver Fatigue: Despite regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) that limit hours on the road, many drivers face pressure to push their limits, resulting in fatigue-related crashes.
- Speeding: Texas law (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.351) mandates that drivers maintain safe speeds, especially in adverse conditions. However, the pressure to make deadlines often results in reckless driving.
- Mechanical Failures: Poor truck maintenance, including worn brakes and defective tires, also leads to accidents. In many cases, these are preventable with proper oversight, which we investigate thoroughly as your Dallas truck accident attorney.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group as Your Dallas Truck Accident Attorney?
Choosing a top-rated truck accident attorney in Dallas can significantly affect your case outcome. We understand what’s at stake and work tirelessly to achieve results that bring relief to our clients.
- Extensive Experience: We have years of experience handling complex truck accident cases in Dallas and know the strategies that work. From our first meeting to the final resolution, we guide you through each step of the legal process.
- Client-Centric Approach: At Patterson Law Group, you are more than just a case number. We prioritize clear communication and are here to answer any questions you have.
- Local Knowledge and Resources: Being a Dallas-based firm allows us to work with local experts, medical professionals, and accident reconstruction specialists. We also have strong relationships with the Dallas legal community, ensuring we bring valuable local insights to every case.
Our approach is tailored to each client’s unique needs, and our team brings compassion, tenacity, and extensive knowledge to every case.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Dallas
Understanding the causes behind truck accidents can explain why these collisions often have severe consequences. As your trusted accident lawyer in Dallas, TX, we leave no stone unturned in identifying the root cause of your accident.
Driver Fatigue
Federal regulations, like those from the FMCSA, mandate hours-of-service rules for truck drivers to prevent fatigue. Drivers are limited to 11 hours of driving within a 14-hour workday and must take a 30-minute break every eight hours.
Despite these rules, violations are common, contributing to nearly 13% of truck accidents in the U.S., according to FMCSA studies.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Dallas roads are notorious for heavy traffic, and truck drivers often face immense pressure to meet deadlines, leading to speeding and reckless behavior.
Speeding, which violates Texas Transportation Code § 545.351, is a frequent contributor to truck accidents. It often makes it harder for drivers to react to sudden changes on the road. As experienced accident attorneys in Dallas, we work to hold negligent drivers accountable.
Distracted Driving
Mobile devices and other distractions are dangerous for all drivers, especially truck drivers operating large and heavy vehicles. Texas law prohibits truck drivers from texting or using handheld devices while driving (Tex. Transp. Code § 545.4251), but violations still occur.
Mechanical Failures
Trucking companies are responsible for maintaining their fleets in safe working conditions. However, some companies cut corners, allowing trucks with worn brakes or defective tires on the road. We work with experts to uncover maintenance records, repair logs, and any evidence of negligence in truck upkeep.
What to Do After a Truck Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a truck accident, taking specific steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case is essential. Here’s what we recommend:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety should always come first. Even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured, it’s crucial to see a doctor as some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, can have delayed symptoms.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information for witnesses.
- Contact a Truck Accident Lawyer Near You: An experienced Dallas truck accident attorney can guide you through the legal process, help you gather evidence, and protect your rights.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Companies: Insurance adjusters may try to minimize your claim. Direct any inquiries to your legal team to ensure your rights are preserved.
Understanding Liability in Truck Accidents
Truck accident cases are often more complex than motor vehicle accidents because multiple parties may share responsibility. As a truck accident lawyer in Dallas, we carefully investigate each case to identify all liable parties, which may include:
- The Truck Driver: If the driver was negligent, fatigued, distracted, or impaired, they could be directly responsible.
- The Trucking Company: Employers are often liable for their drivers’ actions. Additionally, they might bear responsibility if the company fails to maintain the vehicle or encourages unsafe practices.
- Manufacturers and Maintenance Providers: Defective truck parts or poor maintenance can contribute to an accident, opening the door to product liability claims.
Our firm collaborates with accident reconstruction experts, engineers, and other professionals to build a comprehensive case. Uncovering every detail ensures that all negligent parties are held accountable.
Texas Truck Accident Laws and Compensation
Modified Comparative Fault
Under Texas law, you can pursue compensation even if you are partially at fault if you are less than 51% responsible for the accident (Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code § 33.001).
If you are found partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. Our role as a top-rated truck accident attorney in Dallas is to minimize any fault attributed to you to maximize your recovery.
Types of Compensation Available
Our team strives to secure the full range of damages available, which may include:
- Medical Expenses: We pursue reimbursement for hospital bills, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and any future medical costs.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Truck accident injuries often prevent victims from working temporarily or permanently. We seek compensation for lost income and any future lost earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional suffering deserve compensation, and we present detailed evidence to ensure your suffering is recognized.
- Property Damage: We also pursue compensation for vehicle repairs or replacement if your car was damaged in the accident.
Common Questions About Truck Accident Cases in Dallas
How much compensation can I expect?
Each truck accident case is unique. The compensation you may receive depends on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the degree of negligence involved, and the available insurance coverage. We will thoroughly evaluate your damages and provide an honest assessment.
How long will my case take?
While we aim to resolve cases efficiently, the timeline can vary based on case complexity. Some cases may settle quickly, while others require extended negotiations or court proceedings. We’ll keep you informed at each step and work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.
Do I need to go to court?
Many truck accident cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case for trial. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are ready to represent you in court to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident in Dallas, don’t face this challenging time alone. At Patterson Law Group, we understand the impact that a truck accident can have on your life and are committed to providing the legal support you need. Reach out to a trusted truck wreck lawyer in Dallas, TX, and let us guide you through this complex process.
Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation with our experienced Dallas truck accident attorney. We’re here to help you get back on the road to recovery.
