Truck accident injuries can significantly impact the lives of those involved. In 2021, there were 5,700 large trucks that were involved in fatal accidents across the US. This is an 18% increase from 2020 and a 49% increase in the past decade.
Trucks are oftentimes 20 to 30 times heavier than other motor vehicles. A truck’s sheer size and mass greatly increase the injuries, fatalities, and damages sustained in a truck accident. When a truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the passenger car occupants often suffer more serious injuries. In 2020, about 57% of the traffic fatalities were occupants of passenger cars.
After a truck accident, it is crucial to seek medical treatment, even if you believe you only suffered minor injuries. Some truck accident injuries may appear minor but can worsen over time without proper medical treatment. Common truck accident injuries include:
1. Whiplash
Whiplash is one of the most common types of injuries that can occur in a truck accident, especially if the victim is rear-ended. Whiplash is caused by a sudden jolt or back-and-forth motion of the head and neck. Symptoms of whiplash may include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and limited range of motion. Severe cases of whiplash can result in chronic pain and may require more intensive medical treatment.
2. Head and Brain Injuries
Truck accidents can cause severe injuries due to the significant force of impact involved. When a truck crash occurs, a person’s head can strike the steering wheel or window. A truck accident victim could also experience a violent jolt even without direct impact, causing a concussion or mild traumatic brain injuries.
Head injury symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, loss of consciousness, and mood changes. Truck accidents can result in various head injuries, ranging from concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Depending on the severity of the serious injury, treatment may involve medication, rehabilitation, and surgery.
3. Spinal Cord Injuries
Truck accidents can lead to serious spinal cord injuries, which can have life-altering consequences. The impact of a collision can cause damage to the spinal cord and surrounding tissues, including the discs, ligaments, and vertebrae. Spinal cord injuries can lead to a loss of sensation and motor function and can result in partial or complete paralysis.
Depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury, individuals may require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices to regain some level of independence.
4. Fractures and Broken Bones
The force of a truck accident can cause fractures and broken bones throughout the body. The bones that are particularly fragile include the arms, wrists, legs, ribs, clavicle, and pelvis. These kinds of injuries can vary in severity, from hairline fractures to complex compound fractures that may require surgical intervention.
Generally, the recovery period for fractures and broken bones can take 6-8 weeks or longer. Physical therapy and rehabilitation may be required to restore strength and mobility.
5. Internal Organ Injuries
Truck accidents can result in internal organ damage that can be life-threatening if left untreated. High-impact crashes can cause organs such as the spleen, abdominal aorta, liver, or kidneys to be bruised or punctured. Trucking accidents often cause trauma to blood vessels within the body, which can lead to internal bleeding. Internal injuries can be difficult to diagnose without proper medical evaluation, and symptoms may not be immediately evident.
Therefore, anyone involved in a truck accident should seek medical attention, even if they do not initially experience noticeable symptoms. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications or organ failure.
6. Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are another common type of injury in truck accidents. These injuries can occur due to a sudden jolt or impact and typically involve damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The most common soft tissue injuries are back and neck injuries which can involve sprains, strains, and tears. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, bruising, and limited range of motion.
While soft tissue injuries are generally not life-threatening, they can cause significant pain and inconvenience, impacting a person’s ability to work and perform daily tasks.
7. Lacerations and Bruises
A trucking accident can result in lacerations and bruises due to broken glass, sharp debris, or metal objects. The force of impact can cause cuts and lacerations that may range from minor abrasions to deep wounds requiring stitches or even surgical repair. Bruises, or contusions, can also occur due to blunt force trauma during a truck accident.
While lacerations and bruises may not be as severe as some other injuries, they can still cause pain, and discomfort, and potentially lead to complications such as infection if not properly treated and monitored.
8. Psychological Trauma
In addition to physical injuries, truck accidents can have a profound impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Experiencing a traumatic event like a truck accident can lead to psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
The aftermath of a trucking accident may result in flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, fear of driving, or changes in mood and behavior. Seeking support from mental health professionals is essential for coping with and recovering from psychological trauma.
Do I Have a Truck Accident Injury Case?
Overall, truck accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, impacting individuals physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially. It is essential to prioritize safety on the roads and take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of an accident.
If you have been involved in a truck accident and believe that someone else’s negligence or recklessness caused your injuries, you may have a valid case. An experienced truck accident lawyer will thoroughly investigate your case, and gather police reports, medical records, and any available evidence. They will assess factors such as negligence, liability, and the extent of your injuries to build a compelling personal injury case.
Contact an Experienced Truck Accident Lawyer Today
After a truck accident, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention and consult with an experienced truck accident attorney. Truck accidents can result in significant damages including lost wages, medical bills, ongoing medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Determining the value of a truck accident case requires investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident and the resulting injuries.
At Golden State Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of personal injury victims. Our skilled truck accident lawyers can help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call our law firm or fill out the online form today to schedule a no-risk, free consultation.
