Dallas Truck Accident Attorneys

Fighting For Truck Accident Victims in Texas

From truck defects to speeding drivers, truck accidents are one of the most devastating causes of personal injury and wrongful death in Dallas-Fort Worth. Most truckers are paid by the mile, and this incentive can result in speeding, driver fatigue from extended time behind the wheel, and deadly accidents.

The sheer size and weight of the trucks make negligent or reckless truck drivers a threat. The unfortunate aspect of truck accidents is that while the offending truck driver may suffer only minor injuries, other parties involved are much more likely to be severely or catastrophically hurt or even killed. 

Colin B. Bober and Associates personal injury team is here to help victims of severe 18-wheeler and other commercial truck accidents. You can trust us to guide you through the post-accident process and help you recover the financial losses you’ve experienced due to the incident and your injuries. 

Discuss your case one-on-one with our Dallas truck accident attorney in a free consultation. Contact us by email or call (214) 974-4180 to get started. 

Why Are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?

Large commercial trucks can weigh 20 to 30 times more than passenger cars. Depending on the circumstances, they can extend to 59 or 65 feet and be 14 feet high per the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles. The immense force exerted by a truck can cause devastating damage when colliding with other vehicles. 

Additionally, large trucks have bigger blind spots, take longer to stop, are challenging to maneuver, and are more susceptible to rolling over due to their high center of gravity. Furthermore, due to their height, they have higher ground clearance, which means passenger cars can slide under them in an accident with grave consequences. 

What Are the Causes of Truck Accidents?

Several factors contribute to truck accidents, each adding a layer of complexity to road safety concerns. 

Here are common causes to be aware of:

• Driver Fatigue: Long hours on the road can lead to driver fatigue, impairing reaction times and decision-making skills.
• Distracted Driving: Activities like phone use, eating, or adjusting controls while driving can divert a driver's attention from the road.
• Speeding: Exceeding speed limits or driving too fast for road conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents.
• Poor Vehicle Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance of trucks can lead to mechanical failures that cause accidents.
• Improper Loading: Incorrectly loaded cargo can affect a truck's balance and handling, leading to accidents.
• Weather Conditions: Adverse weather such as rain, snow, or fog can reduce visibility and road grip, increasing accident risks.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Lack of experience in handling large commercial vehicles can contribute to accidents.
• Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely reduces stopping distance and raises the chances of rear-end collisions.
• Drug or Alcohol Use: Impaired driving due to alcohol or drug consumption significantly raises the risk of accidents.
• Aggressive Driving: Behaviors like sudden lane changes or road rage can escalate into accidents involving trucks.

Understanding these causes of truck accidents is crucial for improving road safety, implementing preventive measures, and promoting responsible driving practices among truck drivers and other road users.

Common Injuries in Truck Accidents

The most common injuries include the following:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): The effect of a truck collision can cause significant head trauma, leading to concussions or more serious brain injuries. TBIs can have long-lasting effects, impacting cognitive function, memory, and overall quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term rehabilitation, drastically altering the victim's life.
• Broken Bones: The power of a truck wreck often results in broken or fractured bones. Victims may suffer from multiple fractures, requiring surgeries and prolonged recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: The impact from a truck accident can cause damage to internal organs, which could not be instantly apparent. Internal bleeding and organ damage can be very life-threatening and necessitate urgent medical care.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: The sudden jolt from a collision can cause whiplash or other neck injuries, resulting in regular pain and limited mobility.
• Cuts and Lacerations: Shattered glass, twisted metal, and other debris can cause deep cuts and lacerations, often resulting in significant scarring and disfigurement.
• Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Beyond physical injuries, victims often experience emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

What Damages Could be Recovered in a Truck Accident Claim?

The types of compensation that can be sought include:

• Medical Expenses: This includes present and future medical fees related to the accident. Compensation can cover hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any necessary medical devices or home modifications.
• Lost Wages: If the injury stops the victim from working, they can claim compensation for lost income. This includes not only the wages lost during recovery but also any loss of earning capacity if the victim is unable to return to their previous job.
• Pain and Suffering: Truck accident victims can seek compensation for the physical distress and emotional suffering endured as a result of the accident. This non-economic damage takes into account the severity of the injury and its impact on the victim's life.
• Property Damage: Victims can recover the cost of restoring or replacing their vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Loss of Consortium: If the injuries from a truck accident affect the victim's relationship with their spouse, compensation could be available for loss of companionship and support.
• Punitive Damages: In instances where the truck driver's actions were especially reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be awarded. These are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar behavior in the future.
• Wrongful Death: If a truck accident results in the death of a loved one, family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. This compensation can cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.