February 6, 2024 | Personal injury

Truck accidents can have particularly devastating consequences. Trucks are heavier than other vehicles. They are also harder to control. An accident involving a truck often involves greater impact leading to severe injuries with life-long consequences for the victims. Below, we explore some of the injuries commonly suffered by victims injured in truck accidents. We also discuss why it is crucial to seek legal representation after a truck accident.

Severe Injuries Suffered in Truck Accidents

1. Head and brain injuries

Truck accidents can result in head and brain injuries. Head injuries include any injuries to the skull and the soft tissue of the head such as cuts and bruises. Brain injuries are injuries affecting the brain cells. These injuries often occur as a result of the sudden jerking of the neck during the impact. The brain is slammed against the inside of the skull, damaging brain tissue. Brain injuries may also occur as a result of an external object penetrating the brain, such as a skull fragment.

Brain injuries can have long term impacts on the victim. These may include loss of cognitive functions, loss of speech, loss of motor functions and more.

2. Spinal cord injuries

Spinal cord injuries are catastrophic injuries. These injuries often occur as a result of the impact of the accident on the spine. They may also occur as a result of penetrative injuries during the accident. Spinal cord injuries can have life-altering consequences especially when they are not attended to immediately. Some long term effects of spinal cord injuries include paralysis and loss of function below the injury site.

Severe spinal cord injuries may leave the victim dependent on their loved ones for their day to day tasks. They may also require continual medical treatment including multiple surgeries for the long term.

3. Fractures and broken bones

Fractures and broken bones can occur in truck accidents. This is because of the substantial impact of the forces involved in these accidents. Parts of the body commonly affected include the limbs, fingers, toes, feet, hands, pelvis and ribs. While broken and fractured bones can heal over time and with the right treatment, there are cases where victims suffer long term impacts. Some long term impacts of fractures and broken bones include deformities, weakness and chronic pain.

4. Internal injuries

Internal injuries can occur due to blunt force trauma during the truck accident. Internal injuries affect the organs. Injuries to organs such as the lungs, spleen, liver and kidneys can be life threatening. These injuries require immediate medical intervention. It is therefore crucial to get the accident victim to a medical care facility as quickly as possible for early diagnosis and effective treatment.

5. Burn injuries

Fires are common in truck accidents. Fires can be caused by fuel leaks and can result in severe injuries. Truck accident victims can also suffer burn injuries as a result of coming into contact with hot surfaces such as the engine during or immediately after the accident.

Burn injuries can vary in severity. Severe burn injuries often require extensive medical treatment including skin grafting and rehabilitation. Victims may have to live with the scars of their injuries for the rest of their lives.

Seek Professional Legal Representation

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it is vital that you seek the services of an experienced attorney. The following are some reasons why.

1. Your attorney will help you navigate the complex legal issues involved

Seeking compensation for injuries and damages following a truck accident can be complex and involving. A skilled and experienced attorney can navigate the legal intricacies on your behalf. They will help you understand your rights and work to help you recover the compensation that is rightly yours.

1. Your attorney will represent you throughout the process

Dealing with the consequences of a truck accident can be overwhelming. Having an experienced attorney representing you will help to ease the burden. Your attorney will handle every aspect of the claims process allowing you to focus on your recovery and putting the pieces of your life back together.

1. Hiring an attorney will help to maximize your compensation

Insurance companies take advantage of the desperation and lack of knowledge of truck accident victims to reduce their compensation. Hiring an experienced attorney can help to ensure that you recover maximum compensation. They will not only help you assesses your damages to determine what fair compensation ought to be but will also represent you in negotiations and even in court to fight for your rights.

Truck accidents can be devastating. They can have long term consequences that affect both the victim and their loved ones. Working with an experienced attorney can help to ensure that you recover the compensation that is rightly yours.

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