Dallas is a major commercial and transportation hub in Texas, with thousands of commercial trucks traveling its roads daily. While these vehicles are essential to the city’s economy, they also pose significant dangers when drivers, companies, or third parties act negligently. A collision between a semi-truck and a passenger car can cause devastating injuries or even death.
If you’ve been injured in a collision with a commercial vehicle, a Dallas truck accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. In this post, we explore the top causes of truck accidents in Dallas, what makes them different from typical car crashes, and how legal support can make a difference.
The Risk of Truck Accidents on Dallas Roads
Dallas drivers are no strangers to high-speed highways, dense traffic, and ongoing construction zones. Major roads like I-35E, I-635, US-75, and the Dallas North Tollway see a constant flow of passenger vehicles and 18-wheelers.
In fact, several areas of Dallas are considered particularly hazardous due to the volume and complexity of traffic patterns.
Fatigued Driving
Long shifts and tight delivery windows often push truck drivers to their physical limits. Despite federal regulations limiting how long drivers can operate without rest, some companies encourage or ignore these rules to boost profits.
Fatigue slows reaction times, reduces awareness, and increases the risk of driver error. When a drowsy truck driver causes a crash, both the individual and their employer may be held liable.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a growing issue nationwide—and commercial truck drivers are not immune. Activities like texting, eating, adjusting GPS systems, or talking on the phone can take a driver’s attention off the road just long enough to cause a serious accident.
Because of the sheer size and momentum of commercial trucks, a distracted driver can cause multi-vehicle collisions with life-altering consequences.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Dallas’s highways are often fast-paced, but commercial vehicles require more time and distance to come to a complete stop. When truck drivers exceed speed limits or fail to slow down for construction zones or traffic, the risk of a crash increases dramatically.
Speed-related truck accidents are especially common in the city’s high-traffic corridors like I-30 and I-20, where aggressive lane changes and tailgating often lead to disaster.
Improper Cargo Loading
Unbalanced or improperly secured cargo can make a truck unstable, increasing the likelihood of rollovers or jackknife accidents. Overloaded trucks are also harder to stop and more difficult to control.
If an accident was caused by cargo that shifted, fell, or caused the driver to lose control, liability may fall on a third-party loading company in addition to the driver or employer.
Mechanical Failures and Poor Maintenance
Federal law requires commercial trucking companies to inspect and maintain their vehicles regularly. However, many companies neglect routine maintenance to save time and money.
Some of the most common mechanical failures include:
- Brake malfunctions
- Tire blowouts
- Steering or suspension issues
- Broken tail lights or turn signals
When mechanical issues are to blame, your attorney may investigate maintenance records, inspection logs, and parts history to determine liability.
Inexperienced or Undertrained Drivers
To meet rising demand for freight services in Dallas, some companies cut corners in hiring and training. Inexperienced drivers may not be equipped to handle emergency braking, high-speed turns, or merging on crowded interstates.
Texas law requires commercial drivers to undergo specific training and licensing. If a company fails to enforce these standards, they could be found negligent in a personal injury claim.
Driving Under the Influence
Commercial drivers are held to strict standards when it comes to drugs and alcohol. However, some drivers still operate under the influence of illegal substances, prescription medications, or alcohol—putting everyone around them at risk.
Victims of DUI-related truck crashes may be eligible for punitive damages, in addition to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress.
Weather and Road Conditions
Dallas weather can be unpredictable. Rain, wind, and low visibility all increase the risk of a trucking accident—especially when drivers fail to adjust their behavior accordingly. Slippery roads and reduced stopping distances are particularly dangerous for 18-wheelers.
Even if weather is a factor, a driver may still be found negligent for speeding, tailgating, or failing to maintain control of the vehicle.
What Makes Truck Accidents Different?
Truck accident cases are significantly more complex than standard auto collisions. Factors that make these cases unique include:
- Federal trucking regulations governed by the FMCSA
- Multiple liable parties, including the driver, employer, mechanic, and cargo company
- Black box data (electronic logging devices that track speed, hours driven, and more)
- Higher insurance policy limits, which means greater financial exposure for companies
An experienced Dallas truck accident lawyer understands how to investigate these complexities and fight back against large insurance companies and trucking corporations.
What to Do After a Truck Accident in Dallas
If you’re involved in a truck accident, here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine
- Document the scene with photos and witness contact info
- Avoid giving statements to the trucking company’s insurance
- Contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible
Your lawyer will help preserve evidence, deal with the insurance companies, and begin building your case.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
Victims of truck accidents may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages, including:
Economic Damages:
- Emergency room and hospital bills
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Lost wages or loss of future income
- Property damage (vehicle replacement/repair)
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship (in wrongful death claims)
Time Limits for Filing a Truck Accident Claim in Texas
Under Texas law, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, some evidence—such as black box data or surveillance footage—can be lost or overwritten in days or weeks. The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be.
Why Choose Zinda Law Group?
At Zinda Law Group, we’re proud to serve injured victims across Texas, including those in Dallas who have been hurt in devastating truck accidents. Clients choose us because we offer:
- Free case evaluations
- No fees unless we win
- Experienced truck accident attorneys with trial experience
- Access to expert witnesses and investigators
- Compassionate and responsive legal support
Our firm is led by Jack Zinda, a nationally recognized trial lawyer who has recovered millions in compensation for victims of serious truck crashes.
Speak With a Dallas Truck Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Dallas, don’t wait to protect your rights. A knowledgeable attorney can help you investigate the cause of the crash, identify liable parties, and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
Call 800-863-5312 or visit https://www.zdfirm.com/contact-us/ to schedule your free consultation with a Dallas truck accident lawyer 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
