Denton may be known for its small-town charm and vibrant community, but it sits at the crossroads of several major highways where large commercial trucks are constantly present. Every day, 18-wheelers, delivery vehicles, and other heavy trucks move through Denton’s roads—and unfortunately, so do the risks they bring. As a Denton accident lawyer, we have seen firsthand how devastating these crashes can be for individuals and families.
Truck accidents are not like typical fender benders. Commercial trucks’ sheer size and weight mean that the outcomes are often catastrophic when they collide with passenger vehicles. Victims may suffer life-changing injuries, face months of medical treatment, or even lose a loved one in the blink of an eye. As a dedicated truck wreck law firm in Denton, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a serious accident can be, and that is why we are here to help.
At Patterson Law Group, our role as a trusted truck accident attorney in Denton goes beyond legal paperwork. We fight to hold trucking companies, negligent drivers, and insurance carriers accountable. Our clients count on us to deliver results, provide clarity, and restore peace of mind in one of the most difficult times of their lives.
When you contact our team, you will not be treated like just another case file. As an accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we take the time to understand your story, investigate every angle of the crash, and build a strategy tailored to your recovery. Whether you are battling serious injuries or grieving an unimaginable loss, we are committed to standing with you from day one—because you deserve justice, and we know how to get it.
Let us be your advocate. Let us help you move forward.
Why Truck Accidents Are More Complex Than Car Crashes
When we take on a truck accident case, one of the first things we explain to our clients is this: truck accidents are rarely straightforward. As a seasoned Denton truck accident lawyer, we have handled many cases where the cause of the crash—and the responsible party—was not immediately apparent. Unlike a typical car accident, truck accidents involve a unique mix of federal regulations, multiple liable parties, and high financial stakes. That makes them far more complex to investigate and litigate.
Commercial trucks are subject to strict guidelines enforced by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). These rules cover everything from how long a driver can be on the road to how cargo must be loaded and secured. When a truck driver, company, or contractor violates these regulations, it can trigger a chain reaction that ends in disaster. Our job as a truck accident attorney in Denton is to identify and use those violations to strengthen your claim.
Another layer of complexity is the number of parties involved. In a typical car accident, you usually deal with one driver and one insurance policy. In a truck accident, you could be up against the driver, the trucking company, a vehicle maintenance provider, the company that loaded the cargo, or even the manufacturer of a defective truck part. Each of these parties may have its legal teams and insurers. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we are skilled at untangling this web and ensuring that every responsible party is held accountable.
We also know that trucking companies are not in the business of paying out large settlements without a fight. Their insurers have vast resources, and their goal is often to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. That is why having a knowledgeable accident lawyer in Denton, TX, on your side is critical. We come prepared with accident reconstruction experts, medical consultants, and investigators who help us build a case that cannot be ignored or brushed aside.
Finally, the injuries caused by truck accidents are often severe or even fatal. The medical bills, lost income, long-term rehabilitation, and emotional toll can be overwhelming. We understand that our clients are not just looking for compensation—they are looking for closure, security, and a way to rebuild their lives.
At Patterson Law Group, we take pride in navigating these complicated cases with clarity and confidence. Our experience as Denton truck accident lawyers gives us the tools to take on powerful trucking corporations and win. If you are overwhelmed and unsure where to start, we are here to help. Let us take the weight off your shoulders so you can focus on healing.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Denton
Truck accidents in Denton are rarely random. There is almost always a root cause—often involving negligence—that leads to a serious or fatal collision. As an experienced Denton truck accident lawyer, we know that uncovering the exact cause is critical to holding the right parties accountable. Here are the most common reasons behind truck accidents in and around Denton.
Driver Fatigue and Hours-of-Service Violations
Truck drivers must follow federal Hours-of-Service (HOS) rules that limit their driving time without rest. Unfortunately, tight deadlines and employer pressure often cause drivers to stay behind the wheel longer than they should.
Fatigued driving slows reaction times and impairs judgment, putting everyone on the road at risk. As a trusted truck accident attorney in Denton, we routinely uncover falsified logbooks or electronic driving logs that show drivers were overworked and exhausted during the crash.
Overloaded or Improperly Secured Cargo
Cargo must be properly loaded and secured to prevent imbalance or shifting during transport. When a truck carries too much weight or the load is not properly tied down, it can cause the vehicle to roll over, jackknife, or spill debris into traffic. Our truck wreck law firm in Denton consults with cargo and transportation experts to determine whether the load contributed to the accident and who is responsible.
Distracted Driving Behind the Wheel
Distraction is one of the most dangerous behaviors on the road, and truck drivers are not exempt. Texting, using GPS systems, or interacting with in-cab devices can all take a driver’s attention off the road. A few seconds of distraction can cause a massive collision, especially when a large commercial vehicle is involved. We investigate driver cell phone records, dash cam footage, and witness statements to identify signs of distraction.
Impaired Driving
While drug and alcohol testing is mandatory in the trucking industry, impaired drivers still find their way onto the roads. Whether due to alcohol, narcotics, or prescription medications, impaired truck drivers are a danger to everyone around them. As a dedicated accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we immediately obtain toxicology results and employment records to support our clients’ claims when impairment is suspected.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance and Mechanical Failure
Big rigs require constant maintenance, and companies are required by law to inspect and repair their fleets regularly. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, and steering failures are all common problems that can be avoided. If a mechanical failure caused your accident, we will analyze maintenance logs and inspection reports to find out where the breakdown occurred—literally and legally.
Hazardous Road and Weather Conditions
Denton’s roads can present serious challenges for large trucks. Construction zones, high-speed highways, sudden weather changes, and narrow lanes demand caution and control. Truck drivers are trained to navigate these conditions safely, but not all do. Accidents happen when they fail to adjust their speed or driving behavior, and our team steps in to prove it.
Types of Truck Accidents We Handle
Not all truck accidents are the same. The type of collision often reveals a great deal about how the crash occurred, who is liable, and what kind of injuries may result. As an experienced Denton truck accident lawyer, we have handled nearly every truck crash imaginable. Each comes with its challenges, and our job is to investigate, analyze, and build the strongest case possible for our clients.
Jackknife Accidents
A jackknife accident happens when the trailer of a semi-truck swings out to the side and forms a sharp angle with the cab, like a folding pocketknife. These accidents are usually caused by sudden braking, slippery roads, or improperly loaded cargo.
Jackknife crashes often result in multi-vehicle collisions and serious injuries. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we have the resources to determine whether driver error, speed, or mechanical failure played a role.
Underride and Override Crashes
Underride accidents occur when a smaller vehicle slides beneath the rear or side of a truck’s trailer. Override crashes happen when a truck runs over a car from behind. Both are extremely dangerous and frequently fatal. The fault may be missing underride guards, poor visibility, or distracted driving. We know how to pursue these complex claims and hold negligent parties accountable.
Rollover Accidents
A truck rollover can occur when a driver turns too fast, the cargo is unbalanced, or there is a sudden weight shift. These accidents often block entire roadways and involve multiple vehicles. As a truck accident attorney in Denton, we work with accident reconstruction experts to pinpoint what caused the truck to lose balance.
Blind Spot Collisions
Large trucks have significant blind spots on all four sides. If truck drivers change lanes without properly checking these areas, they can easily strike a smaller vehicle. Our firm uses traffic camera footage, dash cams, and driver records to prove when a blind spot accident could—and should—have been avoided.
Rear-End and Multi-Vehicle Crashes
Due to the force of impact, rear-end crashes involving trucks are especially dangerous. Multi-vehicle pileups are also common on highways like I-35 near Denton. As a trusted accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we act quickly to gather evidence before it disappears and help our clients recover damages from every liable party.
At Patterson Law Group, we know how devastating these accidents can be. No matter what type of truck crash you were involved in, we are ready to help you move forward.
Common Injuries in Denton Truck Accidents
Truck accidents often leave a path of devastation far beyond vehicle damage. Because of commercial trucks’ massive size and weight, the injuries sustained in these crashes are usually catastrophic, life-changing, or even fatal.
As a Denton truck accident lawyer, we have seen the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take on individuals and families. We fight relentlessly to ensure victims receive full and fair compensation for their losses.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries are one of the most common and severe consequences of truck accidents. A sudden jolt or blow to the head can lead to a traumatic brain injury, which may result in long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, or even permanent disability.
We work closely with neurologists and medical experts to document the full impact of TBIs and build a case that reflects the lifelong consequences our clients face.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
When the spine is injured in a truck crash, the results can be devastating. Victims may experience partial or complete paralysis, chronic pain, or mobility issues that require long-term care. As a truck accident attorney in Denton, our role includes coordinating with rehabilitation specialists to ensure future medical needs and assistive devices are accounted for in any settlement or verdict.
Internal Injuries and Organ Damage
The blunt force trauma caused by a truck collision can lead to internal bleeding, punctured organs, or collapsed lungs. These injuries are not always visible at first and may worsen rapidly if not diagnosed immediately. That is why we always recommend that our clients seek prompt medical attention, even if they feel fine.
Broken Bones and Amputations
Truck accidents can crush limbs, break bones, or cause injuries so severe that amputation becomes necessary. These injuries often involve extensive surgeries, rehabilitation, and permanent disability. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we pursue compensation that reflects not only the physical pain but also the long-term impact on a person’s ability to work and live independently.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Not all wounds are visible. Many of our clients experience PTSD, anxiety, or depression following a serious truck crash. As a compassionate accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we ensure your claim includes the mental and emotional toll, not just the physical injuries.
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that recovery is more than healing—it’s about rebuilding your life. We are here to help you take that first step.
Determining Liability in a Texas Truck Accident Case
One of the most critical—and complicated—parts of any truck accident claim is determining who is legally responsible. In many cases, it’s not just the truck driver at fault. Liability may extend to multiple parties with insurance policies and legal teams. As a seasoned Denton truck accident lawyer, we know how to dig deep, uncover the facts, and build a case that holds every negligent party accountable.
Multiple Parties May Be Liable
Unlike a typical car accident, where fault often lies with a single driver, truck accidents usually involve more complex liability. Our job as a truck accident attorney in Denton is to identify every potentially responsible party, which may include:
- The truck driver, especially if they were speeding, distracted, fatigued, or impaired during the crash.
- The trucking company may have failed to properly train the driver, enforced unrealistic delivery schedules, or neglected required vehicle maintenance.
- A third-party cargo loader, if the load was unbalanced or improperly secured.
- A parts manufacturer, if a defective brake system, tire, or steering component contributed to the crash.
- A maintenance provider, if the truck was serviced improperly or not at all.
Each entity may deny responsibility, but we have the tools and experience to prove when negligence occurred—and who is ultimately liable.
The Role of Evidence in Proving Fault
Establishing liability requires a thorough investigation and preservation of critical evidence. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we act quickly to secure:
- Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data shows how long the driver has been on the road and whether federal Hours-of-Service rules were followed.
- Black box data records speed, braking, and steering in the moments before the crash.
- Dashcam or surveillance footage, which may capture driver behavior or road conditions.
- Maintenance records, logbooks, and inspection reports to determine if safety checks were skipped or corners were cut.
- Eyewitness accounts, which can corroborate the events leading up to the collision.
We also work with accident reconstruction experts and investigators who help us piece together what happened and why.
Texas Comparative Fault Laws
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which can impact how much compensation you receive. According to Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001, if you are found to be more than 50% responsible for the accident, you cannot recover any damages. If you are 50% or less at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you’re awarded $100,000 but found to be 20% at fault, your recovery would be reduced to $80,000. As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we fight to ensure fault is assigned fairly and that insurance companies do not exaggerate your responsibility to minimize their payout.
Insurance Companies and Shifting Blame
Trucking companies and their insurers often work fast after an accident to protect their interests. They may deploy their own investigators to the scene, pressure victims into giving recorded statements, or offer quick settlements that don’t come close to covering your real losses. That’s why you need a knowledgeable Denton truck accident lawyer on your side from day one.
At Patterson Law Group, we take control of the communication, shield you from predatory tactics, and build a case that clearly shows who was at fault and why you deserve full compensation. Our job is to handle the legal battle while you focus on healing and moving forward.
If you were hurt in a truck accident in Denton, don’t try to go up against big insurance companies alone. We’re ready to stand with you—and we won’t back down.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Denton Truck Accident?
A serious truck accident can change your life in an instant, and the financial fallout can be just as overwhelming as the physical injuries. Medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional toll can pile up quickly, leaving victims feeling helpless.
As a trusted Denton truck accident lawyer, our goal is to recover the full compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives. Understanding the types of damages available is a crucial step in that process.
Economic Damages: The Tangible Losses
Economic damages cover the out-of-pocket expenses and measurable financial losses caused by the accident. These damages are often straightforward to calculate but require strong documentation. As your truck accident attorney in Denton, we help clients recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, and future medical treatment.
- Lost income, for time missed from work due to the accident or recovery.
- Reduced earning capacity, if the injuries prevent a return to the same job or working at all.
- Property damage includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and any personal items lost in the crash.
- Home modifications or assistive devices are needed if the injury results in a disability that requires long-term support.
We work with doctors, vocational experts, and financial analysts to ensure every dollar of your economic loss is documented and accounted for.
Non-Economic Damages: The Human Cost
Not every loss can be measured in dollars and cents. Many victims suffer in ways that are deeply personal and life-altering. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we fight to ensure those invisible wounds are also recognized and compensated. Non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering, for the physical discomfort and trauma caused by the accident.
- Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life, if the injuries prevent you from engaging in hobbies, social activities, or daily routines you once enjoyed.
- Loss of companionship or consortium, in cases where a spouse or partner has been seriously affected by the injuries.
These damages comprise much of your total claim, and insurance companies frequently try to undervalue them. As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we know how to tell your story in a way that makes the emotional and psychological impacts impossible to ignore.
Punitive Damages: When Gross Negligence Is Involved
In rare cases, Texas law allows for punitive damages—also called exemplary damages—when the at-fault party’s actions were reckless or egregious. For example, suppose a trucking company knowingly allowed a driver with multiple DUIs to operate a vehicle or ignored serious safety violations. In that case, we may pursue punitive damages to punish that behavior and prevent it from happening again.
At Patterson Law Group, we don’t just seek compensation—we seek justice. As a dedicated Denton truck accident lawyer, we take the time to assess every aspect of your case and build a strategy to maximize your recovery. You shouldn’t have to carry the financial burden of someone else’s negligence. Let us help you fight for the damages you genuinely deserve.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group as Your Truck Accident Lawyer in Denton
After a serious truck accident, you need more than just legal help—you need a team you can trust to fight for your future. At Patterson Law Group, we understand what you’re going through, and we are ready to stand beside you every step of the way.
As a leading Denton truck accident lawyer, our firm has built a reputation for delivering results with compassion, transparency, and relentless determination.
Local Experience Matters
We’re not some out-of-town law firm trying to make a quick settlement—we live and work right here in North Texas. That means we know the roads, the courts, and the insurance companies operating in Denton.
Our understanding of local traffic patterns, accident hotspots like I-35 and Loop 288, and the specific challenges that come with trucking cases gives us a strategic advantage. When you hire a truck accident attorney in Denton from our team, you’re getting someone who understands the local landscape inside and out.
A Personalized Approach to Every Case
We don’t believe in cookie-cutter solutions. Every accident is different, and every client deserves a strategy tailored to their unique situation. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we take the time to get to know you, understand how the accident has impacted your life, and develop a legal approach that reflects your goals—whether that means negotiating a fair settlement or taking the case to trial.
A Proven Record of Success
We have secured significant results for truck accident victims throughout Denton and beyond. Insurance companies know that we mean business when Patterson Law Group is involved. As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we come to the table prepared—with evidence, expert testimony, and a reputation for not backing down.
You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe us nothing unless we recover money for you. No hourly rates, no upfront costs—just a commitment to justice. That’s how confident we are in our ability to help you.
When you’re ready to take the next step, we’re here to guide you through it. At Patterson Law Group, we combine local knowledge, legal skill, and personal care to make a real difference in your case. Let us put our experience to work for you.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Denton
The moments after a truck accident are chaotic, painful, and confusing—but what you do next can have a significant impact on your health, finances, and legal rights. As a trusted Denton truck accident lawyer, we often hear from clients who didn’t realize how critical those first steps could be.
Here’s what we recommend if you’re involved in a truck crash in Denton.
Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your safety and the safety of others should always be the top priority. Even if your injuries seem minor, adrenaline can mask severe conditions like internal bleeding or head trauma. Paramedics can evaluate you at the scene; an official police report will be critical to your case.
Document the Scene
If you’re physically able, take photos and videos of the crash site. Capture vehicle damage, skid marks, license plates, road conditions, and visible injuries. Get any witnesses’ names and contact information—these details may be essential for your truck accident attorney in Denton when building your case.
Avoid Speaking to the Trucking Company or Their Insurance
Soon after the accident, you may be contacted by the truck driver’s insurance company or employer. Do not give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement offer without legal advice. These companies are looking to minimize their liability, not help you recover. That’s where we come in.
Contact a Truck Wreck Law Firm in Denton
Time is of the essence. The trucking company may already have investigators on the scene. As an experienced accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we quickly secure black box data, driver logs, dashcam footage, and other vital evidence before it disappears.
At Patterson Law Group, we are ready to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can start building your case and helping you move forward.
How Long Do You Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Texas?
After a truck accident, your health and recovery understandably come first—but it’s also important to know that your time to file a legal claim is limited. In Texas, strict deadlines apply to personal injury cases, and missing that window could cost you your right to compensation. As a knowledgeable Denton truck accident lawyer, we help clients confidently navigate these deadlines so they can focus on healing while we handle the legal side.
Texas Statute of Limitations for Truck Accident Claims
Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. This applies to most cases involving injuries caused by truck accidents, including those involving driver negligence, mechanical failure, or employer liability.
If you’re filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one who died due to a truck crash, the two-year period usually begins on the date of death, not the date of the accident.
Exceptions to the Rule
In some cases, the statute of limitations may be extended or paused, but these exceptions are rare. A few examples include:
- Minors injured in a crash may have more time to file after adulthood.
- The clock may be temporarily paused if the at-fault party leaves the state or cannot be located.
- Government liability claims (involving city trucks or road maintenance) may have even shorter notice deadlines, often within six months.
That’s why speaking with a truck accident attorney in Denton is critical as soon as possible. At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we ensure your claim is filed correctly and on time, so you don’t lose your right to pursue damages.
As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we’re here to protect your rights from day one—before the clock runs out.
How We Build a Strong Case for Our Denton Clients
Truck accident cases aren’t won by chance but by preparation, persistence, and strategic execution. At Patterson Law Group, we know what it takes to stand up to trucking companies and their insurers. As a dedicated Denton truck accident lawyer, we approach every case with the resources, skill, and determination needed to secure the compensation our clients deserve.
Immediate Action to Preserve Evidence
Time is critical in a truck accident case. The trucking company may already be working to cover its tracks, so we need to act fast. As soon as you hire us, we send preservation letters to prevent the destruction of key evidence, including:
- Black box (EDR) data contains critical information about the truck’s speed, braking, and movements just before the crash.
- Driver logbooks are used to uncover violations of federal hours-of-service rules.
- Maintenance and inspection records are used to identify mechanical issues or ignored repairs.
- Employment and training files are needed to verify if the driver is properly qualified.
Our experience as a truck accident attorney in Denton ensures no stone goes unturned when gathering evidence.
Accident Reconstruction and Expert Testimony
We work with industry-leading accident reconstruction experts who can analyze skid marks, crash damage, vehicle positioning, and traffic patterns to determine exactly how the collision occurred. Their findings often significantly impact negotiations or trials.
In addition, we collaborate with:
- Medical experts will explain the full extent of your injuries and long-term prognosis.
- Vocational specialists will assess how your ability to work has been affected.
- Economic experts use calculations to calculate current and future financial losses.
This strengthens your case and paints a complete picture of how the accident has impacted your life.
Legal Strategy Tailored to Your Case
Every case is different, and we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we’ll build a legal strategy tailored specifically to your circumstances—whether that means aggressive negotiations with insurers or preparing for trial in Denton County court.
At our truck wreck law firm in Denton, we prepare every case as if it’s going to court. That level of preparation gives us an edge, and it shows the other side we’re serious.
When your future is on the line, you need a team that builds strong cases and delivers real results. That’s exactly what we do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Truck Accident Cases
Truck accidents leave victims with more than just injuries—they also leave behind confusion, stress, and a lot of unanswered questions. At Patterson Law Group, we believe in giving our clients clear, straightforward answers from day one. As your Denton truck accident lawyer, here are some of the most common questions we hear—and what you need to know.
What if I were partially at fault for the accident?
Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule. That means you can still recover damages if you were partially at fault—if you’re not more than 50% responsible. Your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation. As an experienced accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we fight to ensure that blame isn’t unfairly shifted to you.
How long will my truck accident case take?
Every case is different. Some settle in a few months, while others take over a year, especially if a lawsuit is necessary. Factors like the severity of your injuries, the number of parties involved, and the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate all play a role. Our truck accident attorney in Denton will keep you informed every step of the way.
Will I have to go to court?
Not always. Many truck accident claims settle out of court through negotiations. However, if the insurance company refuses a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial. As a truck wreck law firm in Denton, we prepare every case as if it will go to court, so we’re always ready for that next step.
What is the average settlement for a truck accident?
There’s no universal answer—it depends on your injuries, damages, and liability. Serious cases can result in settlements or verdicts well into six or seven figures. We’ll calculate your total losses and fight for the compensation you truly deserve.
Still have questions? We’re here to answer them—no pressure, just honest guidance.
Contact Our Denton Truck Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, the road ahead may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Patterson Law Group, we provide the guidance, protection, and results you need to move forward. As an experienced Denton truck accident lawyer, we’ve helped countless victims across Denton and North Texas hold trucking companies and negligent drivers accountable.
Every truck accident case is unique, and time is not on your side. Evidence can disappear, witnesses may become harder to find, and insurance companies will start building their defense the moment the crash occurs. That’s why contacting a knowledgeable truck accident attorney in Denton is critical as soon as possible.
When you call our truck wreck law firm in Denton, you’ll speak directly with a team that cares about your story and is ready to act. We’ll listen, explain your options, and create a plan that works for you at no upfront cost. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
As your accident lawyer in Denton, TX, we’re here to fight for your future. Call Patterson Law Group today to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.
