Dallas, TX Truck Accident Lawyers | 18-Wheeler Accident Attorney Texas

Have You Been Injured in a Truck Accident?

Truck accidents can lead to devastating injuries, substantial medical bills, and significant financial strain. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, it is essential to seek legal representation immediately. McGilberry & Shirer LLP specializes in truck accident claims, providing expert guidance and assertive representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. With over 60 years of combined experience, our attorneys effectively handle the complexities of truck accident cases.

Dallas, TX Truck Accident Lawyers

Truck Accident Statistics in Dallas, TX

Commercial Trucking Accident Statistics in Dallas, TX

Dallas sees a significant number of commercial trucking accidents annually. Statistics reveal that these accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities. For instance, in 2022, Dallas recorded over 1,200 trucking accidents, with 35% resulting in serious injuries. Understanding these statistics underscores the importance of experienced legal representation to handle these complex cases and secure fair compensation for victims.

Total Crashes: 1,589 (2021)

Injury Crashes: 519 (32.6%)
Fatal Crashes: 16
- Causes: Drinking and driving (23.5%), speeding (23.5%), faulty evasive action (11.8%)
Serious Injury Crashes: 43
- Causes: Speeding (23.8%), unsafe lane changes (19.1%), unsafe speed (19.1%)
Minor Injury Crashes: 163
- Causes: Unsafe lane changes (27.4%), speeding (21.8%), unsafe speed (14.5%), failing to drive in a single lane (12.9%)
Possible Injury Crashes: 313
- Causes: Unsafe lane changes (32.5%), speeding (18.1%), failing to drive in a single lane (14.1%), tailgating (12.1%)

Commercial Trucking Accident Statistics in Dallas County, TX

Dallas County also faces a high number of commercial trucking accidents annually. In 2022, Dallas County reported over 900 trucking accidents, with a significant portion resulting from driver fatigue, reckless driving, and poor vehicle maintenance. These accidents often lead to severe injuries and fatalities due to the large size and weight of the trucks. McGilberry & Shirer LLP leverages these statistics to build strong cases, ensuring that victims receive maximum compensation for their injuries and losses.

Total Crashes: 4,125 (2021)

Fatal Crashes: 38 (40 fatalities)
Serious Injury Crashes: 105 (126 seriously injured)
Minor Injury Crashes: 385 (489 minor injuries)
Possible Injury Crashes: 631 (901 possible injuries)
Non-Injury Crashes: 2,934 (9,202 uninjured people)
Unknown Severity Crashes: 32 (707 unknown injuries)

Most Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Dallas

Truck accidents in Dallas can occur due to various preventable reasons. The most common causes include:

Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road lead to decreased alertness and slower reaction times.
Reckless Driving: Speeding, aggressive lane changes, and tailgating significantly contribute to accidents.
Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Mechanical failures due to inadequate maintenance can cause accidents.
Inadequate Training: Insufficient driver training results in poor driving skills and increased accident risk.
Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions lead to accidents.

Understanding these causes is crucial for building a strong compensation case.

What You Should Do After a Truck Accident

Taking the right steps immediately after a truck accident is crucial for your health and legal claim. Here are essential actions to take:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Get medical care immediately, even if injuries seem minor, to create a medical record linking the injury to the incident.
Report the Incident: Inform relevant authorities about the accident. Report car accidents to the police and workplace injuries to your employer.
Document Everything: Gather evidence from the scene, including photos, witness contact information, and physical evidence. Keep records of all medical treatments and expenses.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: Do not give recorded statements or sign documents from insurance companies without consulting an attorney first.
Contact an Attorney: Consult with a personal injury attorney to protect your rights and begin the claims process.

Negligent Actions Which Contribute to Truck Accidents

Truck Driver Fatigue

Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to fatigue and decreased reaction times. Fatigue is a significant factor in many truck accidents. Federal regulations limit driving hours, but violations still occur. Fatigued drivers are more likely to make errors, miss signals, and have slower reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents. McGilberry & Shirer LLP has extensive experience in handling cases involving driver fatigue, holding trucking companies accountable for negligence.

Reckless Driving by Truckers

Reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding, aggressive lane changes, and tailgating, significantly contribute to truck accidents. These actions endanger not only the truck driver but also other road users. Reckless driving is often a result of tight schedules and delivery pressures. Our attorneys at McGilberry & Shirer LLP are skilled in proving reckless driving and securing compensation for victims.

Dangerous Road Conditions for Trucking

Poor road conditions, such as potholes, uneven surfaces, and inadequate signage, can lead to truck accidents. Truck drivers need to navigate these hazards carefully, but when they don’t, accidents can occur. Municipalities and road maintenance authorities can be held liable for not maintaining safe road conditions. We investigate these factors thoroughly to build a strong case for our clients.

Distracted Driving by Truckers

Distracted driving is a growing concern, with truck drivers often using mobile devices, eating, or adjusting controls while driving. These distractions can lead to accidents. McGilberry & Shirer LLP has experience in identifying and proving distracted driving in truck accident cases, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.

Poor Vehicle Fleet Maintenance

Inadequate maintenance of trucks can lead to mechanical failures, such as brake failures or tire blowouts, causing accidents. Trucking companies are responsible for regular maintenance and safety checks. When they neglect these duties, they can be held liable for resulting accidents. Our attorneys are adept at uncovering maintenance lapses and holding companies accountable.

Inadequate Training of Truck Drivers

Proper training is essential for truck drivers to handle large vehicles safely. Inadequate training can result in poor driving skills and increased accident risk. Trucking companies must ensure their drivers are well-trained and knowledgeable about safety regulations. We investigate training records and compliance to strengthen our clients’ cases.

Truckers Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)

Driving while intoxicated is a severe offense, particularly for truck drivers. The size and weight of trucks make accidents involving intoxicated drivers extremely dangerous. We aggressively pursue cases involving DWI, holding drivers and their employers accountable for negligence.

Poorly Loaded or Secured Cargo

Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit, causing the truck to become unstable and increasing the risk of accidents. Trucking companies must adhere to strict loading regulations. Our team investigates loading practices to identify negligence and build strong cases for our clients.

What Compensation Can I Get for My Truck Wreck Case?

Economic Damages

Economic damages include measurable financial losses resulting from the accident. These can cover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and property damage. Detailed documentation of these expenses is crucial for securing appropriate compensation. McGilberry & Shirer LLP meticulously calculates and pursues economic damages to ensure our clients are fully compensated.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the intangible effects of an accident, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are subjective and vary from case to case. Our attorneys are skilled in presenting compelling arguments to secure fair non-economic damages for our clients.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages may be awarded in cases of gross negligence or intentional harm. These damages are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future. Securing punitive damages requires proving that the defendant’s actions were particularly egregious. We have a strong track record of achieving punitive damages in deserving cases.

Why are Collisions with Commercial Trucks More Complex?

Collisions with commercial trucks are more complex due to several factors:

Regulations: Trucking is governed by extensive federal and state regulations.
Multiple Parties: Liability may involve the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, and others.
Insurance Policies: Higher insurance limits mean more aggressive defense tactics.
Severity of Injuries: Truck accidents often result in more severe injuries, complicating medical evaluations and compensation calculations.

These complexities necessitate experienced legal representation to navigate the intricacies of truck accident cases.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

TBIs are serious injuries that can have long-lasting effects on cognitive and physical abilities. They require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. We work with medical experts to document the extent of TBIs and secure appropriate compensation for our clients.

Spinal Column Injuries

Spinal injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong care. These injuries are often catastrophic and require substantial financial resources for treatment and support. Our team is experienced in handling spinal injury cases, ensuring our clients receive the compensation they need.

Skin Injuries

Severe skin injuries, such as burns or lacerations, can cause significant pain, scarring, and disfigurement. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. We pursue compensation for both the physical and emotional impact of skin injuries.

Internal Organ Injuries

Internal injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. They often result in prolonged recovery periods and significant medical expenses. We work diligently to secure compensation for all related costs.

Fractured Bones

Fractures can range from minor to severe, often requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation. We ensure that all medical expenses and related costs are covered in our clients’ compensation.

Nerve Damage

Nerve injuries can result in chronic pain and disability, significantly impacting a victim’s quality of life. Our attorneys are skilled in documenting nerve damage and securing compensation for ongoing medical care and pain management.

Joint Injuries

Injuries to joints, such as knees, shoulders, and elbows, can limit mobility and require surgical intervention. We seek compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any long-term effects on our clients’ lives.

Amputation and Dismemberment

Losing a limb is a devastating injury that requires significant medical treatment and lifelong adjustments. We fight for maximum compensation to cover medical expenses, prosthetics, and rehabilitation.

Wrongful Death

In the most tragic cases, truck accidents can result in fatalities. Families may seek compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and loss of companionship. We approach wrongful death cases with sensitivity and determination, ensuring families receive the justice they deserve.

Truck Accident FAQ’s:

Liability in Dallas Truck Accidents

Liability can be a difficult thing to ascertain after a commercial truck accident. Since your crash not only involved another driver but a trucking company, you will need to carefully consider all the parties that might be legally responsible for the wreck. Under federal law, trucking companies cannot escape liability by leasing their fleets or hiring independent contractors. Truck companies will be responsible for accidents involving their trucks and drivers regardless. The following parties might all share liability for your recent Dallas crash:

The trucking company. The most likely liable party is the trucking company in charge of the haul. The company will be vicariously liable for the actions of its employees, including the truck driver, loading crew, and maintenance teams that work for the business. The company will also be liable for negligence of its own, such as hiring an incompetent driver or pressuring the driver to meet a deadline.
A product manufacturer. Large trucks rely heavily on their parts and components to deliver goods safely. A single failed piece of equipment could cause a catastrophic accident. If a truck’s tires, brakes, steering, cargo straps, and/or other parts malfunction during a haul, the manufacturer of the defective piece of equipment could bear responsibility for damages.
A third party. The trucking industry has many different people and parties involved in a single haul. The contractors and companies in charge of loading the cargo, leasing the truck, and maintaining the fleet may all be separate enterprises. Many third-party companies will often dispute who is liable for a crash. It’s also possible that a third-party motorist shares liability for your accident if he/she caused a multi-vehicle collision.

A trucking company’s legal duty is to adhere to industry standards in all of its business practices. Cutting corners to save money is often at the heart of serious trucking accidents. A truck company that doesn’t properly train its drivers, pressures drivers to meet tight deadlines, encourages drivers to drive past their hours of service regulations, doesn’t maintain its fleet vehicles, or otherwise manages its business negligently could be legally accountable for resultant crashes.

Find Out Who Is Responsible for Your Damages in Am 18-Wheeler Crash

McGilberry & Shirer LLP can get to the bottom of who should be liable for reimbursing your losses. We can pinpoint the cause of your crash and figure out the defendant from there. Many cases involved the “joint and several liability” of more than one defendant. This means that more than one party will have to pay your damages. For example, the trucking company could be partially liable for negligently loading the cargo, but a part manufacturer could share liability for a strap that snapped mid-transit.

After we identify the defendant(s), we’ll file your personal injury or wrongful death claim within Texas’s two-year statute of limitations. This is incredibly important, as missing your deadline almost certainly means giving up your right to compensation. Our lawyers can then go up against major trucking company insurers in pursuit of fair compensation on your behalf. We aren’t afraid to stand up for your rights in and out of the courtroom in Dallas.

Our Dallas Truck Accident Lawyers Charge NO UPFRONT FEES

At McGilberry & Shirer LLP, we understand the financial strain that a truck accident can place on victims and their families. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any upfront fees. We only get paid when we win your case, ensuring that everyone has access to top-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

Our commitment is to fight aggressively for the maximum compensation for our clients. With over 60 years of combined experience, we are confident in our ability to handle even the most complex truck accident cases.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, contact McGilberry & Shirer LLP today. We are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve and holding negligent parties accountable. Call us now at 972-764-8675 for a free consultation. Discover why we are recognized as the best truck accident attorneys in Dallas & Fort Worth.