Truck accidents can have devastating consequences for your health and well-being. They often result in serious injuries due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles. Knowing some of the most common injuries that can occur in truck accidents is crucial for both victims seeking compensation and for raising awareness about road safety. Read on to learn some of the common injuries one can sustain in a truck accident and how severe they can be.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries
A whiplash injury is caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head during a collision. The impact can strain the muscles and ligaments in the neck. This results in excruciating pain, stiffness, and, in severe cases, long-term damage. If you have a whiplash injury, you will experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating.
Back Injuries
The force of a truck collision can cause serious trauma to the spine and surrounding tissues. The significant force often results in back injuries. Herniated discs, fractures, and spinal cord injuries are not uncommon in such accidents. Back injuries inhibit a wide range of issues, including chronic pain, mobility issues, and even paralysis. Victims with back injuries are forced to deal with sudden changes in their quality of life.
Head Injuries
Head injuries range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). You are likely to get these injuries when the head strikes a hard surface or is violently shaken during a truck accident. Even with the use of seatbelts and airbags, the force of impact in a collision can cause severe head injuries. You will have symptoms like nausea, confusion, and memory loss. In extreme cases, victims might develop permanent cognitive impairment.
Fractures and Broken Bones
The extreme force of a truck accident can result in fractures and broken bones. This affects various parts of your body, including the legs, arms, pelvis, and ribs. Fractures and broken bones may require extensive medical treatment for victims to get better. Surgeries, rehabilitation, and prolonged recovery periods are often the path to feeling better.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are often not immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated. After a truck accident, you can suffer damage to your internal organs, which can lead to internal bleeding or organ failure. Some common indicators of internal injuries may include abdominal pain, swelling, and dizziness. It is important for accident victims to seek medical attention promptly to diagnose and address these injuries.
Cuts and Lacerations
Flying debris, shattered glass, or metal fragments from a truck collision can cause cuts and lacerations. This type of injury may range from minor wounds requiring stitches to more severe injuries. Any delays in treatment could lead to complications that further worsen the situation. Proper medical care is essential to prevent infections and facilitate optimal healing.
Emotional and Psychological Trauma
The trauma of a collision, especially when involving severe injuries or fatalities, can lead to serious mental issues. This could be post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Seeking psychological support is crucial for the overall well-being of those affected by truck accidents.
Why are Truck Accidents So Dangerous?
From the injuries discussed above, you can tell that truck accidents are dangerous. But why is that the case? Here are some reasons.
- Massive size and weight: One of the primary reasons truck accidents are exceptionally hazardous is the massive size and weight of commercial trucks. Trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, significantly surpassing the average weight of a passenger car.
- Longer stopping distances: The size and weight of trucks necessitate longer stopping distances compared to smaller vehicles. Due to their momentum, trucks require more time and distance to come to a complete stop.
- Extended impact zones: The size and length of commercial trucks create extended impact zones. When a truck is involved in an accident, the force of the impact often affects a larger area than that of a standard car collision.
- Cargo shift and spillage: The cargo carried by trucks adds another layer of risk to the potential dangers of a truck accident. Improperly loaded or secured cargo can shift during transit and lead to an imbalance that may result in the truck tipping over or losing control.
Get in Touch With Us for Legal Help
Understanding the common injuries that can occur is vital for both victims and their legal representatives. Our team at Hit by a Truck Call Chuck is committed to helping individuals in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas manage the complex nature of truck accident cases. If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, get in touch with us today for legal help.