DART and City Vehicle Wrecks: Why Notice Deadlines Matter

Crashes involving a DART bus or a City of Dallas vehicle can look like any other wreck at first. The difference is procedural. Claims against government entities have strict notice rules, and missing a deadline can end the case before it starts.

DART is treated as a governmental unit

Under Texas Transportation Code, a regional transportation authority is a governmental unit under Chapter 101, the Texas Tort Claims Act. DART is a regional transportation authority created under Chapter 452.

The Texas Tort Claims Act notice rule

Texas law generally requires notice of a claim to a governmental unit no later than six months after the incident. The notice must reasonably describe the damage or injury, the time and place, and the incident.

City specific rules can apply

The TTCA recognizes that a city’s charter and ordinance notice provisions may apply. For the City of Dallas, the city code provides for a written notice within six months.

Why these deadlines are a trap

People focus on medical care and car repairs, then learn later that a notice deadline passed months ago. Government adjusters do not have to remind you.

What should be included in a notice

Texas law requires a notice that reasonably describes:

• The injury or damage claimed

• The time and place of the incident

• The incident itself

Why acting early helps even more in government vehicle cases

Evidence still disappears fast. Video overwrites. Witnesses move. Vehicles are repaired. Early investigation helps both the notice process and the proof of liability and damages.

How The Wooley Law Firm helps

We evaluate whether the TTCA applies, identify the correct entity to notify, and help avoid procedural pitfalls that can bar otherwise valid claims. If you were hurt in a DART or City of Dallas vehicle wreck, call The Wooley Law Firm. Free consultation. You do not pay unless we win. Call (214) 699-6524.

Frequently asked questions

Is the deadline really six months

• Texas law sets a six month notice rule for governmental units, and city provisions may apply.

Is DART covered by the Texas Tort Claims Act

• Yes, DART is a regional transportation authority treated as a governmental unit under Chapter 101.

What happens if I miss the notice deadline

• It can bar the claim. That is why getting legal guidance early is important.

This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Every case is different.