Commercial trucks are massive in size and very heavy. That’s why collisions with trucks often result in catastrophic injuries. In many scenarios, a truck driver is able to walk away virtually unscathed due to the cab’s protection. Passenger vehicle drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians do not have the same physical defense during an accident. Learn more from our expert San Diego truck accident attorneys.
Some common truck crash injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Neck, back and/or spinal cord injury
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Emotional trauma
This is not a complete list of injuries. Any harm that someone else’s negligence has caused is a reason to contact an experienced truck injury attorney.
Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury
A person can sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI), including a concussion, in several ways during a truck collision. In addition to a strike against the head, any motion that causes the head to violently whip back and forth (without a physical impact) can cause a TBI.
TBI contributes to about 30 percent of all injury-related deaths. If it is not fatal, TBI could lead to impaired thinking, memory, movement, sensation, or emotional function. These effects could go away in a few days or become permanent. In rare cases, head trauma can form a blood clot that crowds the brain against the skull. Because of the wide range of problems that could stem from a TBI, it’s critical to seek medical care right away after a collision.
Neck, Back and Spinal Cord Injury
A truck crash can severely injure a person’s neck and back. Fractures, muscle strains, ruptured discs and other injuries can be painful for life. Even if these injuries are unnoticeable or feel mild at first, the pain may increase. Immediate medical attention could increase a patient’s chance of treating neck and back problems before they get worse.
Victims may also sustain spinal cord damage, which impacts a person’s strength, sensation, and/or body functions. A spinal cord injury could cause paralysis.
Emotional Trauma and PTSD
A truck accident can cause lasting emotional effects including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Emotional trauma may affect a person’s mood, memory, ability to relax, and the desire to do things that were once enjoyable. It can impact relationships and daily functions. Some people may even experience flashbacks, nightmares and/or frightening thoughts.
Getting Help
After seeking medical care for your truck crash injuries, it’s important to obtain strong legal representation. CaseyGerry can help you understand your legal rights and ability to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
California law limits the amount of time you have to protect your rights. Contact our San Diego law firm today for a confidential consultation about your truck crash injuries.
