There was a moment when you knew that everything could change instantly. The sound of screeching tires, the jarring impact of the collision, and the stunning silence just after the crash would soon turn into physical pain, confusion, and emotional suffering.
If you've been hurt in a truck crash or if your loved one died in the collision, you need information so that you can move on. Our experienced Dallas truck accident lawyers are your allies and advocates. Our goal is to help you get the recovery you deserve for all of your truck accident damages. We will provide you with personalized attention, empathetic guidance, and unwavering advocacy from the time you first contact us through the conclusion of your truck accident case so that you can focus on your recovery.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents
Trucking accidents are a unique form of motor vehicle accidents because federal law imposes special duties on commercial and public carriers, known as Federal Motor Carriers Regulations. Many accidents occur because of regulation violations. Some common causes of truck accidents include:
Driver Fatigue and Hours of Service Violations
Commercial truck drivers often face demanding schedules, leading to Hours of Service regulation violations. Hours of Service (HOS) regulations are rules established by federal authorities to govern the maximum time a commercial truck driver can operate their vehicle without mandatory rest breaks. These regulations are designed to prevent driver fatigue and help truck drivers remain alert, focused, and capable of making sound decisions while behind the wheel.
Improper Maintenance and Equipment Failures
Trucks require regular maintenance. Neglecting maintenance or failing to address equipment defects can lead to catastrophic accidents. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and other mechanical issues can cause drivers to lose control, endangering the trucker and other road users.
Distracted Driving and Inattention
Distracted driving is a common cause of truck crashes. A serious crash can occur if a trucker uses a cellphone, adjusts the radio, eats, or does anything else that takes their hands off the wheel, eyes off the road, or attention away from driving safely. Given the size and weight of trucks, even a momentary lapse of attention can result in devastating collisions.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Trucks require longer distances than other vehicles to come to a complete stop due to their weight. A speeding trucker may be unable to stop in time to prevent a crash, and reckless driving behaviors further increase the risk of accidents. Adhering to speed limits and driving responsibly is essential to prevent these types of collisions.
Improper Loading and Cargo Shifts
Improper loading or securing of cargo can lead to unbalanced weight distribution, causing trucks to become unstable on the road. Cargo shifts during transit can result in the truck tipping over or jackknifing. Carriers and drivers must follow proper loading procedures to ensure cargo remains secure throughout the journey.
You likely won't know what caused your crash immediately after it happens. However, our Dallas truck injury lawyers will evaluate all of the evidence, hire top 18-wheeler accident experts in Texas who reconstruct the accident, and find out exactly why the accident happened.
Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents cause approximately 11% of motor vehicle accident deaths in the United States, and the trends are going the wrong way. In 2021, large truck accident deaths were 50% higher than in 2009.
In non-fatal crashes, life-changing injuries can occur and may include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
The forceful impact of a collision can cause your brain to collide with your skull, leading to bruising, bleeding, or even long-term damage. TBIs can result in cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments that profoundly affect your quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Truck accidents can also lead to spinal cord injuries, causing varying degrees of paralysis. These injuries disrupt the communication between the brain and the body, potentially resulting in loss of sensation, mobility, and control. The extent of recovery depends on factors such as the location and severity of the injury.
Severe Orthopedic Injuries
Truck accidents frequently result in severe orthopedic injuries, including multiple fractures, shattered bones, and joint dislocations. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility, disrupting daily activities, including work.
Internal Organ Damage
The impact of a truck collision can cause internal organs to be compressed or injured. Internal organ damage can range from mild to life-threatening.
Burns and Disfigurement
Truck accidents can result in fires or explosions, leading to severe burns and disfigurement. Burn injuries are physically painful and emotionally distressing. The psychological impact of disfigurement can significantly affect a person's self-esteem and overall well-being.
Psychological and Emotional Trauma
The aftermath of a truck accident can leave victims with psychological and emotional trauma. Survivors may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. These invisible wounds can impact a person's daily life, relationships, and ability to function.
What to Do After a Texas Truck Accident
The steps you take after a Texas truck crash matter, but you don't have to take them alone. Our experienced Dallas truck accident lawyers will:
Conduct a Thorough Investigation
After a Texas truck crash, the first step is a thorough investigation. Our Dallas truck accident lawyers will dig into the details, collect evidence, review accident reports, and consult experts if needed. This meticulous approach helps build a strong case by accurately uncovering the facts and determining liability.
Preserve Critical Evidence
Preserving evidence is crucial in truck accident cases. Our legal team will ensure that crucial evidence, such as skid marks, vehicle damage, and road conditions, is documented and retained. This prevents evidence from being lost or altered and is essential for building a solid case in your favor.
Determine Liability and Negligence
Our experienced lawyers will analyze all aspects of the accident to determine who was at fault. This may involve investigating the actions of the truck driver, the trucking company, and any other parties involved. Proving negligence is essential to securing compensation for your injuries and losses.
Deal with Insurance Companies
Our legal team will communicate with insurance representatives on your behalf. This ensures that your rights are protected and you're not taken advantage of by insurance tactics aimed at minimizing payouts.
Calculate Damages and Seek Compensation
Our Dallas truck accident lawyers will meticulously assess your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. We'll work to seek fair and just compensation that accounts for both current and future losses resulting from the accident.
Negotiate Settlements
Negotiating with insurance companies and at-fault parties requires legal finesse. Our skilled negotiators will work to secure the best possible settlement for you. We won't settle for less than you deserve and will use our experience to protect your rights.
Pursue Litigation if Necessary
While we strive to achieve fair settlements, some cases require litigation. Our lawyers are prepared to take your case to court if negotiations don't yield a satisfactory outcome.
Provide Compassionate Support
In addition to our legal experience, our Dallas truck accident lawyers offer compassionate support. We understand the emotional toll a truck crash can have on your life. Our team is here to listen, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process with understanding and empathy.
Now Is the Time to Fight for a Fair Truck Accident Recovery
A successful truck accident case will not only provide you with justice and closure, but it may also provide you compensation for your past and future:
Medical Expenses
In a successful truck accident case, you may receive compensation for your medical expenses. This includes costs for hospitalization, surgeries, doctor visits, medication, physical therapy, rehabilitation, and any ongoing medical treatments needed to recover from your injuries.
Lost Income and Earning Capacity
Compensation can also cover the income you lost due to missed work due to the accident. Lost income may include wages, benefits, bonuses, raises, and income from self-employment.
Pain and Suffering
Truck accident injuries can lead to significant physical pain and emotional distress. Compensation for pain and suffering takes into account the physical discomfort, mental anguish, and diminished quality of life you've experienced due to the accident and your injuries.
Property Damage
If your vehicle or personal belongings were damaged in the accident, compensation could cover the cost of repairs or replacement.
In some cases, additional damages may be available.
A successful truck accident case seeks to address the full scope of the damages you've suffered. With the right legal representation, you can secure the compensation you deserve to aid in your recovery and prevent additional financial problems.
Have You Been Injured in a Dallas Area Truck Accident?
If you've been injured in a Dallas area truck accident, you need to speak with an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Dallas office directly at 214.559.7202. We help clients throughout the Dallas area with all of their personal injury law needs and look forward to helping you.
