A wide-load convoy transporting a large submarine propeller was traveling on a two-lane highway. The top of a woman's car was ripped off by the oversized propeller. The woman was killed in the incident. Her children sued the companies involved in the convoy, alleging negligence in carrying the cargo. A jury found the defendants responsible for her death.
Wrongful Death Cases in Dallas–Fort Worth
Wrongful Death cases from motor vehicle accidents can vary significantly in severity and outcome. These cases involve injuries that may require medical treatment, rehabilitation, and can impact quality of life. Settlement values depend on injury severity, medical expenses, recovery time, and long-term effects on the victim's daily activities and ability to work.
Last updated: November 2025
High-Level Statistics
A jury found a trucking company and its driver mostly at fault in a wrongful death case. The accident occurred when a truck driver stopped in a traffic lane after an object damaged her truck's brake line. The deceased driver collided with the stopped truck. The jury determined the trucking company and driver were negligent, as was the deceased driver to a lesser extent.
A tower crane collapsed during severe weather, falling onto an apartment complex and killing one resident. The plaintiffs alleged negligence in crane maintenance and operation, while the defendants blamed operator error and equipment issues. The jury found for the plaintiff after a two-week trial.
One driver stopped a tractor-trailer on the highway just over a hill. The other driver crested the hill and struck the trailer. The collision resulted in injuries to the driver and her two sons, and tragically, the death of the younger son. The driver and the father of the deceased child sued the tractor-trailer driver and his employers, alleging negligence for stopping on the highway. The defense claimed the driver stopped due to a trailer light issue and was returning to the truck when the crash occurred.
A driver was killed when his pickup truck struck the protruding ends of light poles from an 18-wheeler's trailer. The truck driver had made a right turn, causing the poles to swing into the pickup truck's lane. The collision resulted in the driver's death. The case proceeded to trial on the issue of damages after liability was stipulated.
A driver was killed when their vehicle collided with the side of a tractor-trailer. The estate claimed the truck driver made an improper left turn, causing the crash. The defense argued the decedent was speeding. The parties reached a settlement.
A group of senior citizens was being transported by bus when the driver lost control, causing the bus to crash and flip. Three people were killed, and other passengers were seriously injured. The families of those who died sued the casino that organized the trip, alleging negligence by the bus driver. The case went to trial, and a jury awarded damages. The casino appealed, but the appellate court upheld the finding of liability.
A multi-vehicle collision occurred on Interstate 40 on a dark, icy night. One truck lost control and blocked lanes. Another truck stopped on the shoulder and its driver exited. Subsequent impacts caused one vehicle to be pushed into the stopped truck, resulting in fatalities and serious injuries. The case involved claims of negligence against multiple drivers and trucking companies.
A bus carrying senior citizens crashed and overturned on a highway in Dallas County, Texas. The crash resulted in multiple fatalities and numerous injuries. The case involved claims of driver error and the responsibility of the bus company and the entity that organized the trip. A jury found multiple parties responsible for the crash and awarded damages to the estates of those who died.
A driver was killed when his vehicle struck a steel plate extending from the back of an 18-wheeler. The truck was stopped in a crossover lane at night, and the load was partially blocking the driver's lane. The driver's family sued the trucking company, the transportation broker, and others, alleging negligence in how the load was transported and secured. Some defendants settled before trial, and the jury found others negligent.
A driver lost control of his vehicle after a tire separation and collided with the rear of a parked tractor trailer. The driver was killed, and passengers in his vehicle were seriously injured. The passengers and the driver's estate filed suit against the tire manufacturer, tire installer, trucking company, and trailer manufacturer. The jury found in favor of the plaintiffs.
A motor vehicle accident (MVA) refers to any collision or incident involving cars, trucks, motorcycles, or other vehicles that results in property damage, injury, or death. In Texas, MVA cases typically involve one or more drivers, passengers, or pedestrians seeking compensation for damages resulting from another party's negligence.
Common injuries
Motor vehicle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from minor soft tissue damage to catastrophic, life-altering conditions. Common injuries include whiplash and neck injuries, back and spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), broken bones and fractures, internal organ damage, burns, lacerations, and psychological trauma such as PTSD.
Liability overview
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are found to be more than 50% at fault for an accident, you cannot recover damages. Liability is determined by factors such as driver behavior (speeding, distracted driving, DUI), road conditions, vehicle defects, and witness testimony. In MVA cases, establishing clear liability is critical to achieving a favorable outcome.
Factors influencing case value
Several factors influence the value of an MVA case. Injury severity is paramount—more serious injuries result in higher awards. Medical expenses (past and future), lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent disability or disfigurement, and the defendant's insurance policy limits all play a role. Additionally, the quality of legal representation, availability of evidence, and jurisdiction can significantly impact outcomes.
Timelines
Most MVA cases in the Dallas-Fort Worth area take 12-36 months to resolve, depending on complexity. Pre-litigation settlements may occur within months if liability is clear and the insurance company makes a reasonable offer. Cases that proceed to litigation typically take 18-24 months, while those that go to trial can extend to 24-36 months or longer. In Texas, the statute of limitations for MVA personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about motor vehicle accident cases in Dallas-Fort Worth
Important: The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Case outcomes vary significantly based on individual circumstances. Past results are not guarantees of future outcomes. Always consult with a qualified attorney for guidance specific to your situation.