Accidents involving big trucks can be terrifying. They are often responsible for severe injuries, property damage, and even death.
In fact, thousands of large truck accidents occur each year, and many of them result in serious injuries. To better understand how to avoid these types of accidents, knowing the most common injuries in truck accidents is important.
So, keep reading as we closely examine the top seven most common truck accident injuries and how to avoid them.
Let’s get started!
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Injuries to the head and brain are often the most devastating in truck accidents. This is due to the high-impact forces involved. Brain injuries can result in long-term disabilities and even changes to a person’s personality.
Examples of head and brain injuries include the following:
Skull Fractures
A skull fracture is a break or crack in one of the bones that make up your skull. This type of injury can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
This is a severe form of brain injury that can result in permanent damage to the brain. It can cause cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is a vital part of the body that controls movement and sensation. Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Some common types of spinal cord injuries in truck accidents include:
Herniated Discs
A herniated disc occurs when one of the discs between your vertebrae ruptures, causing pressure on the nerves in your spinal cord. This can result in pain, numbness, and weakness.
Spinal Fractures
Fractures to the spine can cause serious damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis. These injuries often require surgery and long-term rehabilitation.
3. Broken Bones and Fractures
The impact of a truck accident can easily cause broken bones and fractures. These injuries can vary from minor to severe, depending on the location and severity of the fracture. Commonly fractured bones in truck accidents include:
Arms and Legs
The arms and legs are particularly vulnerable in a truck accident, as they often bear the brunt of the impact. Fractures in these areas can cause significant pain and limit mobility.
Ribs
Broken ribs are not only painful, but they can also lead to serious complications such as punctured lungs or internal bleeding.
Pelvis
A pelvic fracture can be life-threatening. It can damage internal organs and cause severe bleeding.
4. Internal Injuries
In truck accidents, the force of impact can cause damage to internal organs and tissues, resulting in serious or even life-threatening injuries. Some common internal injuries include:
Organ Damage
The liver, kidneys, spleen, and other organs can be damaged in a truck accident due to blunt force trauma. This can lead to severe bleeding and require emergency medical treatment.
Internal Bleeding
The impact of a truck accident can cause internal bleeding, which can be difficult to detect and treat. This type of injury requires immediate medical attention.
5. Whiplash
Whiplash is a common but often misunderstood injury resulting from truck accidents, particularly rear-end collisions. It occurs when the head is suddenly jerked forward and backward, stretching or torning the neck muscles and ligaments.
Symptoms of whiplash can include neck pain and stiffness, headaches, and dizziness. Although the symptoms might not appear immediately after the accident, seeking medical attention as soon as they emerge is crucial.
6. Burns and Lacerations
In some cases, truck accidents can result in fires or explosions, causing victims to suffer from burns and lacerations. These injuries can be severe and require immediate medical attention to prevent infection and minimize scarring.
In addition, broken glass and other debris from the accident can cause cuts and puncture wounds that may require stitches or other medical treatment.
7. Psychological Injuries
Truck accidents can also have a lasting impact on a person’s mental health. The trauma of being in an accident, witnessing the injuries and destruction, and dealing with the aftermath can lead to various psychological injuries such as:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can cause severe anxiety, flashbacks, and difficulty functioning in everyday life.
Depression and Anxiety
Truck accidents can also trigger depression and anxiety in victims, as they may struggle to cope with the physical, emotional, and financial impact of the accident.
How to Stay Safe on the Road
Avoiding truck collision injuries starts with prevention. Here are several tips to keep in mind:
Maintain a Safe Distance From Large Trucks
Large trucks require more time and space to stop, so it’s crucial to maintain a safe distance from them while driving. This will give you enough time to react if they suddenly break or swerve.
Avoid Blind Spots
Truck drivers have large blind spots, making it difficult for them to see other vehicles on the road. To reduce the risk of a collision, truck drivers should avoid lingering in these blind spots.
Follow Traffic Laws
Following traffic laws and carefully obeying road signs can help prevent accidents. This includes avoiding distracted driving, speeding, and reckless behavior.
Take Breaks When Needed
Truck drivers must follow strict regulations regarding rest breaks while on the road. However, it’s also essential for all drivers to take regular breaks and avoid driving while fatigued.
Seek Legal Help if Needed
If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, seeking help to protect your legal rights is important. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
For support and guidance, make sure to find more information on how to choose a reputable personal injury lawyer who specializes in truck accidents. This will help ensure you receive the best legal representation and can focus on your recovery.
Exploring Truck Accident Injuries
Understanding the most common truck accident injuries and being proactive with accident avoidance can lessen the risks. Prioritize safety measures, and always be prepared should an accident occur.
However, if an accident does happen, securing medical treatment and legal advice can make a huge difference in the aftermath.
Remember, your well-being is paramount. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and ensure road safety for yourself and others.
Was this article helpful? If so, check out the rest of our site for more informative content.
Concussions
This is a mild form of traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain hits the skull. It can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.
