Truck Accident Injuries: What You Need to Know

The Consequences of Truck Accidents

Identifying the Common Injuries From Truck Accidents

In 2020, truck accidents caused 147,000 injuries, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Motorists should also remember that truck accidents kill. The same source shows that large truck crashes killed 4965 people.

Here are some of the common injuries that result from truck accidents:

Head Injuries

Head and neck injuries are one of the most common truck accident injuries. This includes traumatic brain injury, blunt force trauma, concussion, bruised brain tissue, and laceration.

Head injuries can occur even without direct trauma to the head. For instance, whiplash can result in head and brain injuries. These injuries can cause the victim to lose motor and cognitive functions, leading to lifelong effects. Traumatic brain injuries require immediate medical treatment and care.

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries are severe physical injuries that can result in paralysis. Injuries to the spine need immediate medical attention and can rack up high medical costs. They can even lead to chronic pain or permanent physical disability.

Symptoms of a spinal cord injury include incontinence, complete paralysis, bone degeneration, and muscle function loss.

Fractures

Semi-truck, tractor-trailer, tanker truck, or any other type of truck accident will likely cause broken bones. The powerful impact when the truck crashes into an average passenger vehicle increases the risk of bone fractures.

The victim’s recovery will depend on the severity of the fracture. Medical care and treatment can vary from physical therapy to surgeries. Some fractures can heal quickly, while others will need expensive and longer rehabilitation.

Burn Injuries

Accidents involving large trucks transporting gases and chemicals can lead to more catastrophic fatal truck crashes. These chemicals and gases may be flammable and explosive. The occupants of the truck and the involved vehicles are at risk of severe burns and disfigurement.

Burn injuries can result in fluid loss and severe infections, which may require amputation and blood transfusion. They can lead to lifelong and irreparable damage that can affect the victim’s quality of life.

Internal Injuries

The impact and blunt trauma caused by truck accidents can lead to internal bleeding and damage. It can affect the victim’s liver, bladder, spleen, kidney, and pancreas. Brain bleeds are also considered internal injuries.

Symptoms of internal injuries may not show immediately. This is why truck accident victims must get medical treatment immediately for their injuries. Doing that can also help them when seeking compensation for their medical bills.

Compensation for Truck Accident Injuries

Filing a Truck Accident Claim

Some victims of truck accidents may feel overwhelmed at the thought of fighting trucking companies for compensation. Fortunately, the help and guidance of a truck accident attorney can make the ordeal manageable.

Here are the steps that victims of trucking accidents must take to file a personal injury claim.

• Gather as much evidence as possible. This includes taking pictures of the scene and collecting information on the drivers, passengers, and possible witnesses.

• Obtain medical records that detail the extent and severity of the truck accident injury you sustained.

• Seek the legal assistance of a reputable and experienced truck accident attorney. A qualified truck accident lawyer will handle the claims process and represent you in court if needed.

• File a claim with the trucking company’s insurance company.

• Negotiate for a fair settlement or pursue a personal injury lawsuit.

• Keep track of all medical and rehabilitation costs and lost wages.

The statute of limitations in Georgia provides that victims of trucking accidents have a maximum of two (2) years to file a claim. An Atlanta truck accident attorney can help ensure that the victim’s claim is filed within the time prescribed by law.

Why Trust Dressie Law Firm for Your Truck Accident Case?

Dressie Law Firm has over two decades of extensive experience representing personal injury victims in Atlanta, GA. We have recovered over 30 million dollars for our clients and have always strived to get them maximum compensation.

Our truck accident lawyers are experienced litigators and negotiators, so you know that your case would be in good hands. We provide an open line of communication, keeping clients updated on the status of their cases.

If you or your loved one has suffered truck accident injuries, call us to schedule a free consultation today.