What Are Common Injuries in Commercial Truck Accident Cases?

Commercial trucks pose a great risk to passenger vehicle occupants due to their weight and size, and sometimes due to hazardous cargo. Collisions involving commercial vehicles are often incredibly destructive, resulting in extensive property damage, severe injuries, and tragic fatalities. 

A commercial truck crash can be a life-altering event whether or not it results in serious injuries — but for those who do physically suffer, seeking financial recovery from the at-fault party may be the only way to cover medical expenses and other losses. 

The most common injuries caused by commercial truck accident cases include the following:

Broken Bones 

There are two main categories of fractures: compound (open) fractures and closed fractures. A compound fracture breaks through the skin and can be particularly dangerous due to the increased risk of infection. With either type, you may need to wear a cast, splint, or brace in order for the bone to heal. In some scenarios, surgery and physical therapy may also be necessary. 

Sprains 

A sprain is a stretching or tearing of the ligaments. Mild sprains may heal on their own, but more serious sprains require medical attention. Symptoms of a sprain include pain, swelling, bruises, and weakness in the affected area. Sprains that result from car accidents can be tricky because you may not realize you’ve sustained an injury until hours or even days after the crash. 

Spine and Neck Injuries 

Spine and neck injuries can range from temporary soft tissue damage like minor whiplash to serious spinal injuries that can impact your mobility and cause permanent paralysis. Common neck and back injuries include spine fractures or dislocations, herniated or bulging discs, spinal stenosis, and spinal cord injuries. People who sustain serious neck and back injuries during car accidents often suffer from a reduced quality of life and may require permanent pain management and physical therapy.

Traumatic Brain Injuries 

Head trauma is one of the foremost threats posed by commercial truck accidents. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by a direct blow to the head that makes the brain move inside the skull. Mild and moderate TBIs typically cause symptoms like headaches, confusion, and memory problems, while a severe TBI can cause permanent physical and mental disability. 

Lacerations

Lacerations are extremely common in car accidents. A small scrape or abrasion probably won’t require medical attention, but a puncture wound, deep cut, or avulsion (when the skin is pulled or torn away) can result in a deadly infection. Common treatments for lacerations include skin glue, stitches, sutures, and antibiotics. 

Internal Injuries 

Internal bleeding can be caused by either a penetrating trauma or a blunt trauma. A penetrating trauma occurs when a foreign object penetrates the body, whereas a blunt trauma occurs when the body is struck with great speed and force. Internal bleeding typically requires urgent medical attention, but sometimes the symptoms do not arrive immediately after the accident. These symptoms include abdominal pain, lightheadedness, purple coloration of the skin, headache, and fainting.

When to Get Medical Help

If you were injured in a commercial truck accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe your injury is severe. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some types of injuries do not exhibit symptoms for hours or even days after the accident. Your health is of the utmost concern, but it is also important to receive an accurate medical diagnosis in order to begin documenting your case. 

How the Commercial Truck Accident Lawyers at FVF Can Help

The days following a commercial truck accident can be confusing and overwhelming. You may be trying to recover and decide how to proceed from a legal standpoint while fielding insurance adjusters’ attempts to contact you and get your statement on record. A free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer can help you gain clarity and better understand the factors that impact your case. 

At FVF, we pride ourselves on being transparent and discussing every option with you so that you can feel confident in your next steps. Our commercial vehicle accident lawyers are well versed in the nuances of commercial truck accidents and will fight for your right to receive financial recovery for your medical expenses, missed wages, or any other losses you have suffered or will likely suffer. Contact us today to schedule your free, no-commitment consultation.