Dallas is one of the busiest and most traffic-heavy cities in Texas. Between I-35E, I-635, US-75, and countless miles of service roads and construction zones, it’s no surprise that truck accidents are a frequent—and often devastating—occurrence. Commercial trucks, especially 18-wheelers, can weigh more than 20 times the weight of a passenger car, and when something goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic.
Understanding the most common causes of these crashes can help victims and families pursue justice and compensation with the help of a Dallas personal injury lawyer. Below, we break down the top causes of truck accidents in Dallas and what victims can do after a crash.
Distracted Driving
Distraction is one of the most common causes of all motor vehicle accidents, and truck drivers are no exception. A few seconds of inattention can have devastating consequences—especially when operating a commercial vehicle at highway speeds.
Common distractions include:
- Texting or phone use
- GPS or dispatch systems
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting in-cab controls
When a distracted truck driver causes a collision, an attorney can help obtain phone records, black box data, and witness testimony to prove liability.
Driver Fatigue
Despite federal regulations limiting how long commercial drivers can stay behind the wheel without rest, many drivers push past safe limits to meet delivery deadlines. Drowsy driving impairs reaction time and decision-making, and it is a known factor in many serious truck accidents.
Fatigue-related crashes are especially dangerous on long stretches of highway like I-20 or I-45, where a sleeping driver may not react in time to avoid stopped traffic or merging vehicles.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speeding is a major factor in many Dallas truck accidents. Whether the driver is trying to stay on schedule or is simply driving aggressively, speeding in a vehicle that large significantly increases stopping distance and crash severity.
Commercial vehicles are harder to maneuver at high speeds, and they become even more dangerous in construction zones or on congested roads, where sudden braking or swerving can cause multi-car pileups.
Unsafe Lane Changes and Blind Spot Collisions
Large trucks have extensive blind spots on all four sides—especially along the right side and rear. When truck drivers fail to check these areas or use turn signals, they risk colliding with vehicles they can’t see.
Lane-change accidents are common on highways like the Dallas North Tollway and I-30, where traffic moves quickly and multiple lanes merge without much warning.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Trucking companies are responsible for routine maintenance and safety inspections. However, some neglect this duty to cut costs or avoid delays. When a brake failure, tire blowout, or steering issue leads to a crash, the company may be held liable.
A qualified Dallas truck accident lawyer can review inspection logs and maintenance records to determine if mechanical failure played a role in your accident.
Improper Cargo Loading
Commercial trucks often carry thousands of pounds of cargo. When loads are unbalanced, unsecured, or exceed legal weight limits, they can cause a truck to tip, jackknife, or spill debris into traffic.
Liability in these cases may extend to a third-party loading company or freight handler—something your attorney will investigate as part of building your claim.
Inadequate Driver Training
Operating a commercial truck requires a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL), specialized training, and knowledge of safety protocols. Unfortunately, in an effort to meet growing demand, some companies rush the training process or hire underqualified drivers.
Poor training can result in:
- Failure to manage emergency braking
- Incorrect use of trailer brakes
- Inability to handle curves or steep grades
- Unsafe turns and wide swing-outs
When training practices fall short, both the driver and employer may share responsibility.
Driving Under the Influence
Although commercial drivers are held to stricter standards for drug and alcohol use, impaired driving remains a risk factor. Prescription medications, illegal substances, and alcohol can all impair coordination, judgment, and reaction time.
Victims of DUI-related truck accidents may be eligible for punitive damages in addition to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and more.
What Makes Truck Accident Claims Different?
Truck accident claims involve unique challenges, such as:
- Federal trucking laws and safety regulations
- Multiple potentially liable parties (driver, employer, maintenance provider, cargo company)
- Electronic logging devices and black box data
- Large insurance policies and aggressive legal defense teams
Hiring an experienced Dallas personal injury lawyer ensures your case is investigated thoroughly and that all responsible parties are held accountable.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Dallas
Here are the immediate steps you should take if you’re involved in a truck accident:
- Call 911 and get emergency medical help
- Get a police report from the responding officers
- Take photos of vehicle damage, the truck, road conditions, and injuries
- Get contact info from the truck driver, witnesses, and any company representatives on scene
- Avoid giving statements to the trucking company’s insurer
- Contact an attorney to protect your rights and preserve evidence
The earlier you seek legal advice, the better your chance of building a strong claim. If you’re unsure whether you have a case, speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
Compensation Available in Truck Accident Cases
Victims of trucking accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
Economic Damages:
- Hospital and medical bills
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death cases)
In cases involving gross negligence or regulatory violations, punitive damages may also be awarded.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or wrongful death claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, you should act quickly to preserve evidence like truck logs, maintenance records, and black box data.
Don’t delay—contact a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your claim.
Why Choose Zinda Law Group?
Zinda Law Group has represented thousands of clients injured in truck and commercial vehicle crashes throughout Texas, including in the Dallas area. When you work with us, you get:
- Free, no-obligation case consultations
- No fees unless we win your case
- Trial-ready attorneys experienced in trucking litigation
- Access to experts and investigators
- Local knowledge of Dallas courts and roads
Our team is led by Jack Zinda, a nationally recognized trial lawyer who has recovered millions for injured clients.
Speak with a Dallas Personal Injury Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, don’t wait to get help. A skilled Dallas personal injury lawyer can help you identify the cause of the crash, pursue compensation, and hold all negligent parties accountable.
Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation today.
John (Jack) Zinda
Founder / CEO
Over 100 years of combined experience representing injured victims across the country.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
Neil Solomon
Partner
Real results matter. We do not get paid unless we win your case.
Available 24 / 7|Free Consultation
