Common Injuries in Truck Accidents: An Overview

A truck accident collission scene with a car in the middle of the road.

Key Highlights:

Common injuries in truck accidents include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
Broken Bones: Fractures, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs, are common.
Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Sudden impacts can cause neck pain and limited mobility.
Internal Injuries: Damage to organs like the lungs or liver can be life-threatening.
Burns and Lacerations: Fires and debris can cause severe burns and cuts.

Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of injury and death in America, and the increased size and mass of trucks make them especially dangerous. When these large vehicles are involved in accidents, they can cause serious harm. The injuries caused by truck accidents can be life-threatening and can result in permanent impairment. If you’re concerned about the severe injuries that can result from truck accidents, you’re not alone!

In 2022, 5,837 large trucks were involved in fatal crashes, marking a 1.8% rise from 2021 and a 49% increase over the past decade. The rate of these accidents per 100 million miles traveled by large trucks also climbed by 3% from 2021 and 24% over the last 10 years. Large trucks, defined as medium or heavy trucks weighing more than 10,000 pounds (excluding buses and motor homes), accounted for 6% of all vehicles involved in fatal crashes and 10% of the total miles traveled by vehicles.

Truck accidents often result in some of the most serious injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries. The extent of these injuries is alarming, but understanding them is the first step toward addressing them effectively. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a large truck, you may be dealing with the pain, suffering, and financial burdens that come with severe injuries.

Whether you’re seeking justice for a loved one or simply want to educate yourself on the rights of patients and their families involved in truck accidents, this comprehensive guide aims to shed light on a deeply sensitive topic that affects many.

What are Truck Accidents?

A truck accident involves a large commercial vehicle colliding with another vehicle or object, often causing severe damage and serious injuries due to the truck’s size and weight.

In most cases, truck accidents result in severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones and even internal injuries that may lead to loss of ability to work or even death in more dangerous situations.

When issues like this occur, the help of a truck accident lawyer or a personal injury lawyer with enough experience and resources to deal with the complex insurance issues and even represent you in court especially if your case goes to trial becomes invaluable.

Common Causes of Truck Accidents

Even though highway safety has gotten better over time, truck accidents still happen for many reasons. There are several things that can cause truck accidents globally, sometimes bad road conditions, vehicle and tire defects among others are some of the common causes of truck accidents in the United States. Here is a quick overview of some of the most common causes of truck accidents:

Distracted driving: This happens when drivers take their eyes or focus off the road to text, change the radio, or talk on the phone.
Speeding: Big trucks, like semis, can’t stop or turn quickly when going too fast, which makes accidents worse.
Intoxication: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs slows reaction time and clouds judgment. Truckers sometimes use drugs to stay awake, which is dangerous.
Mechanical defects: Big trucks have lots of parts that can break, like faulty brakes or tires, which can lead to accidents.
Unsafe trucking practices: Some drivers are pushed to work long hours or carry too much weight, which makes it harder to stay safe on the road.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

Injuries in truck accidents often result in severe and life-altering consequences due to the size and weight of commercial trucks. Some of the most frequent injuries include:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

One of the most severe injuries that can result from a truck accident is a traumatic brain injury. These injuries can range from concussions to more severe forms of brain damage. TBIs often occur when a victim’s head strikes a hard surface, such as the dashboard or windshield, during a collision. Symptoms can vary widely and may include confusion, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in mood or behavior. Long-term effects can be debilitating, requiring extensive rehabilitation and support.

2. Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are another common outcome of truck accidents. The impact of a collision can lead to herniated discs, fractures, or complete spinal cord damage. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, significantly affecting a victim’s quality of life. Rehabilitation for spinal cord injuries is often lengthy and expensive, and many victims may require ongoing care and assistance.

3. Broken Bones

Fractures are prevalent in truck accidents due to the violent nature of these collisions. Commonly broken bones include the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Depending on the severity of the fracture, recovery can take weeks to months, and some injuries may require surgical intervention. Broken bones can also lead to complications, such as infections or chronic pain.

4. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and contusions, are also common in truck accidents. While these injuries may not be as visible as broken bones or head injuries, they can cause significant pain and limit mobility. Soft tissue injuries often require physical therapy for recovery and can lead to long-term discomfort if not treated properly.

5. Internal Injuries

The force of a truck accident can cause internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can include damage to organs, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels. Internal injuries can be life-threatening and often require immediate medical attention. Victims may need surgery or other interventions to address these injuries effectively.

6. Burns

In some truck accidents, particularly those involving hazardous materials or fuel, victims may suffer from severe burns. Burns can result from fire, explosions, or contact with hot surfaces. The severity of burn injuries can vary, and treatment often includes pain management, wound care, and rehabilitation. Severe burns can lead to scarring and long-term psychological effects.

7. Whiplash

Whiplash is a common injury in rear-end collisions, which can also occur in truck accidents. This injury happens when the head is suddenly jerked back and forth, straining the neck muscles and ligaments. Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. While many whiplash injuries heal over time, some individuals may experience chronic pain and discomfort.

8. Psychological Injuries

The emotional and psychological impact of truck accidents can be just as significant as physical injuries. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues following a traumatic event. These psychological injuries can affect daily functioning and relationships, making it essential for victims to seek appropriate mental health support.

Factors Contributing to Injuries in Truck Accidents

Several factors contribute to the severity of injuries sustained in truck accidents:

Size and Weight of Trucks: Commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded. This immense weight means that when a truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the forces involved can lead to devastating injuries.
Speed: Higher speeds increase the severity of collisions. Trucks require longer distances to stop, and when they are traveling at high speeds, the impact can be catastrophic.
Driver Behavior: Driver fatigue, distraction, and impairment can all lead to accidents. Truck drivers often work long hours, leading to exhaustion, which can impair their reaction times and decision-making abilities.
Road Conditions: Poor weather, road construction, and other hazardous conditions can increase the likelihood of accidents. Trucks are more challenging to maneuver in adverse conditions, leading to a higher risk of collisions.
Vehicle Maintenance: Trucks that are not properly maintained can suffer mechanical failures, leading to accidents. Regular inspections and maintenance are critical for ensuring the safety of commercial vehicles.

The Importance of Medical Attention

After a truck accident, it is crucial for victims to seek medical attention immediately, even if they do not feel injured. Some injuries, such as internal injuries or concussions, may not present symptoms right away. Prompt medical evaluation can help identify and treat injuries before they worsen.

Additionally, having a medical record of injuries is essential for any potential legal claims. Documentation of injuries and treatment can support a victim’s case when seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Legal Considerations

Victims of truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. It is essential to consult with a personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accident cases. These legal professionals can help victims understand their rights, navigate the complexities of insurance claims, and build a strong case for compensation.

Factors that may affect a legal claim include:

Liability: Determining who is at fault for the accident is critical. This could involve the truck driver, the trucking company, or even other parties, such as vehicle manufacturers.
Insurance Coverage: Trucking companies are required to carry specific insurance coverage, which can significantly impact the compensation available to victims.
State Laws: Each state has its own laws regarding personal injury claims, including statutes of limitations and comparative negligence rules. Understanding these laws is crucial for a successful claim.

Injured in a Truck Accident? Contact Our Experienced Georgia Truck Accident Lawyers

If you or a family member has been injured in a truck accident due to reckless drivers or vehicle defaults, get in touch with our truck accident attorneys for free case evaluation. All our cases are handled on a contingency basis so you do not have to pay us until we win. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

(404) 888-4444

Final Thought

In summary, truck accidents can lead to some of the most severe injuries, from traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage to broken bones and internal injuries. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can have long-lasting effects on a victim’s quality of life.

Understanding the common types of injuries in truck accidents is essential for anyone involved in or affected by these incidents, as it helps in recognizing the seriousness of the situation and seeking appropriate medical and legal help.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to be informed about your rights and options for compensation. Working with experienced personal injury lawyers can provide you with the support and guidance needed to navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with our team today.