Garland Truck Accident Lawyers

Experienced Garland Truck Accident Attorneys Ready To Serve You

Truck accidents in Garland can be life-altering, often resulting in serious injuries, costly medical bills, and long-term disruptions. Whether you’re hit on I-635 or a local street, the aftermath of a commercial vehicle crash can be overwhelming. That’s why hiring a trusted Garland truck accident lawyer is crucial to protect your rights and your future.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident in Garland, Texas, you may wonder if you have any right to a truck accident claim. The skilled litigators at Harley Law Firm are here to help. Our Garland truck accident lawyers have fought on behalf of clients like you for fair compensation against negligent truck drivers and companies. Contact us today.

Why You Need a Garland Truck Accident Lawyer on Your Side

Truck accident cases are not like regular car crash claims. They involve powerful trucking companies, complex federal and state regulations, and aggressive insurance adjusters working to reduce or deny your compensation. Victims are often at a disadvantage without skilled legal help.

Hiring a dedicated Garland truck accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected from day one. At Hartley Law, we offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let our experience work for you.

What Is Considered a Truck in Commercial Vehicle Accidents?

Tractor-trailer, 18-wheeler, and semi are terms that describe large commercial trucks. For our purposes, a truck is a large-scale vehicle regulated by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), primarily carrying and transporting items. 

The FMCSA regulates vehicles engaged in interstate commerce with a gross vehicle weight of 4,537 kg (10,001 lb) or more. Even if the truck doesn’t leave the state of Texas, it’s still regulated by Texas law, which adopted FMCSA regulations. Our Garland truck accident attorneys can explain how the definition of a truck under federal and state law might come into play in your accident claim.

How is a Truck Accident More Complex than a Standard Car Accident?

Truck accident cases often involve several layers of complexity that make them harder to resolve without legal help. Unlike a basic car accident claim, commercial truck cases may involve multiple responsible parties, including the driver, the trucking company, and third-party contractors.

Injuries tend to be more severe due to the size and weight of commercial trucks, which increases the financial value of a claim. This also means trucking insurers fight harder to reduce payouts. They may deny fault, downplay your injuries, or use confusing paperwork to limit your recovery.

Self-representation in these cases is risky. A truck accident lawyer in Garland can handle tough negotiations, collect critical evidence, and protect you from tactics that put your claim at risk.

Injured in a Truck Accident? Don’t Face It Alone

Truck accident cases are complex — and the trucking company’s legal team is already working against you. Get Legal Help Now from a Garland attorney who knows how to fight back.

• No fees unless we win
• Fast, confidential consultations
• 100% focused on your recovery

Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Garland, TX

Proper training for truck drivers and regular maintenance of commercial vehicles are critical to keeping roads safe. When either is neglected, it becomes a serious public safety issue—especially in high-traffic areas like Garland. Even a single mechanical failure or moment of poor judgment behind the wheel can result in catastrophic consequences for other drivers.

Some of the most common causes of truck accidents in Garland include:

• Driving under the influence: Whether it’s alcohol, illegal drugs, or even prescription medication, impaired driving severely limits a truck driver’s ability to make quick decisions and control a large commercial vehicle safely.
• Driving while fatigued: Long hours behind the wheel and tight delivery schedules can push truck drivers beyond their physical limits. Fatigue impairs reaction time and decision-making, and it’s a leading factor in many preventable accidents.
• Distracted driving: Cell phone use, GPS navigation, eating, or adjusting in-cab settings can divert a truck driver’s attention from the road. For commercial vehicles weighing up to 80,000 pounds, even a few seconds of distraction can cause devastating collisions.
• Failure to properly secure cargo: If a truck’s load shifts or falls during transit, it can cause the vehicle to become unbalanced or lose control. Improperly secured cargo also poses a serious hazard to other drivers if it spills onto the roadway.
• Failure to maintain the truck: Bald tires, faulty brakes, broken lights, or steering issues can all lead to crashes—especially at highway speeds. Trucking companies operating in and around Garland may neglect routine inspections or delay repairs in an attempt to cut costs.
• Speeding and traffic violations: Due to their size and weight, commercial trucks require significantly more distance to stop and maneuver. When drivers speed, follow too closely, or ignore traffic signals, they put everyone around them at risk.

Although a driver’s error is often the cause of a truck accident, trucking companies may be equally at fault. Sometimes they cut corners and fail to maintain a truck to save on their bottom line. Our Garland truck accident lawyers will investigate the details of your case to determine who may be at fault. 

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Injuries from truck accidents can be both physically devastating and financially overwhelming. Because of their sheer size and weight, commercial trucks often cause far more severe damage than passenger vehicles—especially on heavily traveled roads in cities like Garland. Victims may suffer long-term or even permanent consequences that impact their ability to work, support their families, or enjoy daily life.

Some of the most common truck accident injuries include:

• Whiplash: Often caused by the violent jerking motion during impact, whiplash can damage muscles, ligaments, and spinal discs in the neck. While sometimes dismissed as minor, this injury can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility.
• Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI): A concussion can result from the head striking a surface or experiencing rapid deceleration. In more serious cases, TBIs may cause memory problems, cognitive impairment, personality changes, or permanent disability.
• Broken bones: The force of a truck collision frequently results in fractured arms, legs, ribs, or facial bones. These injuries often require surgery and extensive rehabilitation, and may lead to lasting impairment.
• Seat belt and airbag-related injuries: While life-saving, seat belts and airbags can also cause harm during a high-impact crash. Common injuries include bruised or fractured ribs, chest trauma, and internal bleeding—particularly in high-speed truck accidents.
• Internal injuries: The intense force of a collision can cause damage to organs like the liver, spleen, lungs, or kidneys. Internal bleeding may not be immediately obvious, making it crucial for victims to seek emergency medical care after a truck accident in Garland or elsewhere.
• Abrasions and lacerations: Shattered glass, flying debris, or contact with sharp vehicle parts can cause deep cuts or road rash, some of which may require stitches or skin grafts.
• Fatal injuries: Sadly, some truck accidents are fatal. If your loved one was killed in a crash involving a commercial vehicle, you may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.

If someone you love died as a result of a truck accident, you may be able to bring a wrongful death claim on behalf of them. Speak with our Garland truck accident attorneys to learn more about a potential wrongful death claim.

Truck Accident Liability

Most truck accident claims are based on negligence, meaning someone failed to act with reasonable care, and that failure led to your injuries. In Garland and throughout Texas, truck drivers and trucking companies must follow both general traffic laws and strict federal and state safety regulations. When they violate those rules, they may be held financially responsible.

To prove negligence in a truck accident case, the injured party must establish four key elements:

• Duty of care: Truck drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely, while trucking companies are responsible for hiring qualified drivers and maintaining their fleets in good working condition.
• Breach of duty: A breach occurs when a party fails to meet those responsibilities. Examples include a driver operating while fatigued, distracted, or under the influence, or a trucking company that neglects necessary vehicle maintenance or encourages unsafe scheduling practices.
• Causation: It must be shown that the breach of duty directly caused the crash and your resulting injuries. For instance, if faulty brakes contributed to the collision, that failure must be tied to the damages you suffered.
• Damages: You must have experienced real harm—such as physical injuries, financial losses, or emotional suffering—as a result of the accident.

At Hartley Law, our Garland truck accident attorneys have deep experience proving liability in complex trucking cases. We know how to uncover violations, gather critical evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

What Evidence Do You Need to Prove Your Truck Accident Case?

Building a strong truck accident case requires more than just a police report. It takes a thorough investigation and deep knowledge of the trucking industry.

Key evidence often includes:

• Black box data (EDR): Records speed, braking, and driving time.
• Driver logs: Help show fatigue or hours-of-service violations.
• Maintenance records: Reveal whether the truck was in safe condition.
• Police reports: Provide official details and witness accounts.
• Photos and video evidence: Document crash scenes and vehicle damage.
• Medical records and expert testimony: Connect injuries to the crash.
• Witness statements: Support your version of events.

Hartley Law has the resources to gather and analyze this evidence effectively, ensuring your case is backed by facts, not just claims.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Garland Truck Accident?

Determining who is responsible for a truck accident isn’t always simple. Liability often extends beyond just the driver. Depending on the situation, multiple parties may share fault.

There are two types of liability to understand:

• Direct liability: When a party directly causes harm through their actions.
• Vicarious liability: When a company is held responsible for the actions of its employees.

Parties that may be liable in a truck accident include:

• The truck driver: For negligent driving, fatigue, or impairment.
• The trucking company: For poor hiring, lack of training, or unsafe policies.
• Cargo loaders: For improperly secured or overloaded freight.
• Truck or parts manufacturers: For defective equipment.
• Third-party maintenance providers: For failed inspections or repairs.

A Garland truck accident lawyer will work to identify all liable parties and hold each accountable.

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Garland

The steps you take after a truck accident can directly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

1. Call 911 and seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine.
2. Document the accident scene. Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
3. Look for company logos on the truck and photograph them.
4. Get witness information. Names and phone numbers are important.
5. Do not admit fault or speculate about the cause of the crash.
6. Request a copy of the police report for your records.
7. Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters without a lawyer present.
8. Contact a Garland truck accident attorney as soon as possible to begin protecting your rights.

Early legal support can make all the difference when insurers and trucking companies try to shift blame.

Injured in a Truck Accident? Here’s What to Do Next

The steps you take now can make or break your case. Let us guide you through the process. Speak to a Garland Truck Accident Attorney Today. 

You handle recovery. We’ll handle the rest.

What Compensation Can You Recover in a Truck Accident Claim?

If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Garland, Texas law may entitle you to compensation from the at-fault driver, trucking company, or other responsible parties. These claims are not just about paying medical bills—they’re about helping victims rebuild their lives. Truck accident compensation typically falls into three categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and in some cases, exemplary damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to cover the financial losses directly caused by the accident. These are typically easier to calculate and prove through documentation such as bills, pay stubs, or receipts. Common examples include:

• Medical expenses: This includes ambulance rides, emergency room treatment, surgery, physical therapy, prescriptions, future medical care, and assistive devices.
• Property damage: If your vehicle was damaged or totaled in the crash, you may be compensated for repair or replacement costs.
• Lost wages: If you had to miss work due to injury, recovery, or medical appointments, you can seek compensation for that lost income.
• Loss of future earning capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work—or force you into a lower-paying role—your future income losses may be recoverable.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for the personal, emotional, and psychological effects of the crash. These losses are not as easy to calculate, but they can still have a profound impact on your quality of life. Examples include:

• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and discomfort caused by the injuries.
• Emotional distress: Covers anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health issues stemming from the accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from participating in hobbies, activities, or family life as you once did.
• Scarring or disfigurement: Particularly relevant in cases involving severe lacerations or burns.

The value of non-economic damages is highly individualized, but they are a crucial part of any comprehensive truck accident claim.

In rare cases, Texas courts may award exemplary damages—also called punitive damages—if the at-fault party’s conduct was especially reckless or malicious. This could apply if, for example, a trucking company knowingly sent an unqualified driver on the road or ignored a serious mechanical issue. These damages are not meant to compensate the victim directly, but rather to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Texas follows a modified comparative fault rule, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are partially to blame for the accident. For instance:

• If you are found 10% at fault, your total compensation will be reduced by 10%.
• If you are found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation at all.

Our Garland truck accident lawyers will work hard to minimize your degree of fault and maximize your financial recovery. We gather evidence, consult with experts, and build strong legal arguments to support your claim at every stage of the process.

Types of Trucks Involved in Garland Commercial Truck Accidents

Commercial truck accidents in Garland can involve many different types of vehicles. Each presents unique risks, making it essential to understand the truck involved in your crash.

• 18-wheelers / Semi-trucks: Common on highways like I-635, these large freight haulers often cause serious damage at high speeds.
• Box trucks / Delivery trucks: Used by retailers and couriers, they have limited visibility and frequently stop in traffic.
• Dump trucks: Found in construction zones, their heavy and uneven loads can lead to tipping or rollovers.
• Flatbed trucks: Carry oversized or unsecured cargo that can shift or fall, posing risks to nearby vehicles.
• Tanker trucks: Transport flammable or toxic substances. Spills or explosions make these accidents especially dangerous.
• Garbage trucks / Utility vehicles: Operate in neighborhoods where pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable.
• Tow trucks: Often work near busy roads. Poor lighting or improper hookups can create serious hazards.

No matter the truck type, victims of commercial vehicle accidents in Garland need strong legal representation to uncover what went wrong.

How Long Do I Have to File a Truck Accident Claim in Garland, Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a truck accident claim is two years from the date of the injury. This deadline applies to most personal injury cases, including those involving commercial vehicles.

There are some exceptions. If a child was injured or if the injuries were not discovered right away, the time limit may be extended. However, missing the standard two-year deadline almost always means losing your right to recover compensation.

If you were hurt in a Garland truck accident, it’s critical to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure your case is filed on time.

Time Is Running Out on Your Claim

Texas law gives you just two years to file a truck accident lawsuit. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to compensation forever. Don’t wait. Don’t guess. Don’t Delay – File Your Claim Before It’s Too Late.

How Long Does a Truck Accident Case Take to Settle?

There is no set timeline for resolving a truck accident claim. Some cases settle within a few months, while others may take a year or longer, especially if they go to trial.

Several factors affect how long your case may take:

• Severity of injuries: Serious injuries require longer recovery periods and more medical documentation.
• Disputes over fault: If liability is contested, resolving the case takes longer.
• Insurance company cooperation: Delays are common when insurers resist fair settlements.
• Whether a trial is necessary: If negotiations fail, your case may need to go to court, which adds more time.

Quick settlements are not always in your best interest. Insurers may offer lowball amounts to close the case quickly. An experienced Garland truck accident lawyer will evaluate your claim thoroughly and fight for full and fair compensation, no matter how long it takes.

Garland, TX Truck Accident Statistics You Should Know

Located in the heart of Dallas County, Garland is surrounded by major truck routes, including I-635, SH 78, and IH-30, all of which experience heavy commercial traffic. In 2024, Dallas County recorded 3,857 commercial motor vehicle (CMV) crashes—an average of more than 10 truck crashes every day. These were far from minor incidents:

• Over 25% of all truck crashes caused injuries
• 124 people were seriously injured in CMV crashes
• 27 fatal CMV crashes claimed 29 lives in a single year

These statistics show how frequently truck crashes occur in Dallas County—and how often they result in catastrophic consequences for drivers and passengers alike.

The risks were just as evident within Garland’s city limits. In 2024, the city experienced 3,195 total crashes, with injuries and fatalities affecting thousands of people:

• 16 fatal crashes led to 17 deaths
• 94 serious injury crashes, leaving 104 people seriously hurt
• 1,057 minor injury crashes caused 1,473 injuries
• In total, more than 3,100 people were injured or killed in Garland crashes in one year

With this volume of serious accidents, Garland drivers face a clear threat on the road—particularly when large commercial trucks are involved. Victims of truck crashes often need strong legal support to hold trucking companies and insurers accountable.

How Insurance Works in a Garland Truck Accident

Insurance plays a major role in Garland truck accident cases, and these claims are often more complicated due to the large commercial policies involved. Most trucking companies are required to carry at least $750,000 in liability coverage, but depending on the type of cargo and truck, policy limits can reach into the millions. In many cases, multiple insurance policies may be involved, including secondary or layered coverage that adds additional protection beyond the primary policy.

Unfortunately, trucking insurers often use tactics to avoid paying what victims deserve. They may delay your claim, deny liability, or shift blame onto you. An experienced Garland truck accident lawyer can identify all potential sources of coverage and hold insurers accountable. Attorneys are skilled at uncovering hidden policies and exclusions that could affect your compensation, ensuring you receive the full amount you’re entitled to.

Ready to Take Action? Contact a Garland Truck Accident Lawyer at Hartley Law

Investigating a truck accident case takes knowledge of federal and state law and an eye for detail. You have to deal with truck insurance companies and negotiate against teams of lawyers who will try to reduce your truck accident settlement. You do not have to do this alone.

At Hartley Law Firm, our lawyers are experienced with Texas truck accident cases and aren’t afraid to stand their ground against aggressive insurance lawyers. If you’ve been injured in a Garland truck accident, contact us today to get the compensation you deserve.

FAQs About Garland Truck Accident Lawsuits

How much does a truck accident lawyer cost?

Most Garland truck accident attorneys, including Hartley Law, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing upfront, and the attorney only receives a fee if they successfully recover compensation for you. The fee is typically a percentage of the final settlement or court verdict. Initial consultations are almost always free, so there is no risk in getting legal advice about your case.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover compensation as long as you were less than 51 percent at fault for the accident. However, your total compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were found to be 20 percent at fault and your total damages were $100,000, you would receive $80,000.

Do I have to go to court after a truck accident?

Most truck accident claims in Garland settle out of court. However, if the insurance company refuses to make a fair offer or if liability is disputed, your case may need to go to trial. Hartley Law prepares every case with the possibility of trial in mind and will support you through each step of the process. This preparation helps ensure the strongest possible position whether your case settles or proceeds to court.

Can I sue the trucking company directly?

Yes. You can file a lawsuit against the trucking company if its negligence contributed to the crash. Examples of negligence include failing to maintain vehicles, hiring unqualified drivers, or encouraging unsafe driving practices. In addition to direct liability, trucking companies can be held responsible through a legal principle called vicarious liability. This means they may be liable for the actions of their drivers if those actions occurred within the scope of employment.

What if the truck driver was an independent contractor?

Even if the driver is classified as an independent contractor, the trucking company may still be held liable in some cases. If the company had control over the driver’s work or failed in its duties to vet and train the driver properly, it may share responsibility for the accident. Determining liability in these situations can be complex, which is why having an attorney is essential.

What makes commercial truck accident claims more valuable?

Claims involving commercial trucks tend to be higher in value due to the severe injuries often involved, the availability of larger insurance policies, and the significant financial losses victims may suffer. Trucking is a highly regulated industry, and violations such as exceeding hours-of-service limits or failing to maintain vehicles can increase the value of a claim. These factors help build a stronger case for maximum compensation.

How long will my Garland truck accident case take?

Every case is different, but most truck accident claims take anywhere from several months to a few years to resolve. The duration depends on factors such as how long it takes for you to recover from your injuries, how cooperative the insurance company is, the complexity of the evidence, and whether the case goes to court. Fast settlements are not always in your best interest because they may not account for long-term costs like ongoing medical care or lost earning capacity.

What’s the average truck accident settlement?

There is no fixed amount for a truck accident settlement. Each case is unique and depends on factors like the cost of medical treatment, the extent of lost wages, the severity of injuries, and how clearly fault can be proven. Hartley Law evaluates every detail of your case to pursue the maximum compensation available under the law. While industry averages exist, your attorney will focus on the full impact the accident has had on your life to help you recover what you deserve.

You Deserve Justice — Let’s Go Get It

With Hartley Law on your side, you don’t have to face trucking companies or insurers alone.

• Proven results
• Personal attention
• Fierce advocacy

Schedule Your Free Consultation today. It costs nothing to speak with us — and everything if you don’t.