Commercial trucks transport the goods we need and want across the nation. But in the hands of an inexperienced or careless driver, these enormous tractor trailers pose a serious danger to everyone around them. Because of their sheer size and weight, large trucks are more likely to cause serious injuries than passenger vehicles during a motor vehicle accident.
According to crash data collected by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) an estimated 159,000 people were injured in accidents involving large trucks in 2019. Of that total, 69 percent were occupants in other vehicles. We will look at the most common truck accident injuries and provide tips on what to do if you are hurt in a traffic crash with an oversized truck. If you or a loved one were involved in an accident with a truck like this, reach out to an experienced truck accident lawyer today.
Why Do Truck Accidents Happen?
Common causes of truck accidents include:
- Driver fatigue
- Distracted driving
- Equipment malfunction
- Hazardous road conditions
- Other drivers or pedestrians
- Alcohol and/or substance use
- Poor equipment maintenance
- Improper cargo loading or overloading
- Driver inexperience or improper training
- Aggressive driving (including speeding and overtaking)
Common Truck Accident Injuries
A serious truck accident can be mentally traumatic and physically debilitating. Survivors are often left with painful injuries that can impact their mobility, independence, and quality of life.
- Bruises, Lacerations, and Puncture Wounds: Whether caused by displaced metal, broken glass, or unsecured debris inside the vehicle, bruises and lacerations can become severe and life-threatening quickly.
- Burns: First, second, and third-degree burns are all possible in a car accident, especially when the smaller car in a truck accident is so distorted that it becomes difficult or impossible to open the car door to escape.
- Broken Bones: The most commonly broken bones in truck accidents are vertebrae, clavicle, and the bones in the leg (Fibula and femur.)
- Sprains and Strains: When ligaments become stretched or torn, this is known as a sprain. Common sprains include those in the back, ankles, wrists, and shoulders – all areas that can be twisted with the force of a car accident.
- Neck and Back Injuries: Whiplash, ruptured or herniated discs, and spinal cord injuries.
- Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Concussions and TBIs may not appear immediately, but they should be treated immediately as they can lead to lifelong complications or even death.
- Amputations and Disfigurement: In severe accidents like those with semi-trucks, injuries can be so traumatic as to be irreversible, necessitating amputation of the injured body part.
It is important for anyone who has been involved in a serious truck accident to take their mental and emotional recovery equally important as their physical rehabilitation.
What to Do After a Truck Accident?
Most people will be involved in a motor vehicle accident at some point in their lives. In most cases, the accident is minor and does not result in permanent injuries. Yet when the accident involves a truck, the risk of serious injuries increases.
1.Get Medical Care
Your first priority should always be getting the medical attention you need. If you are not treated at the scene, be sure to follow up with a full exam as soon as possible.
As we have mentioned, not all injuries are obvious. Left untreated, invisible injuries like internal bleeding, broken bones, and head injuries can worsen and create bigger health problems going forward.
2. Report the Accident
Always report the truck accident to the police. They will collect evidence and take reports at the scene.
3. Contact an Attorney
A consultation with a truck accident lawyer should be your next step. Accidents involving commercial trucks are complex because there are multiple parties involved. The trucking company, manufacturer, or driver may be at fault.
Your attorney carefully reviews all of the evidence to determine the best course of action to pursue compensation for economic and noneconomic damages like auto repairs, medical bills, lost income, and pain and trauma. With a strong legal advocate in your corner, you can move forward after a life-changing truck accident.
Washington DC Truck Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O King Fight for Clients in Maryland, DC, and Virginia.
If you or someone you care about was seriously hurt in a tractor trailer crash, contact the experienced Washington DC trucking lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King for guidance. We have a proven track record of achieving good outcomes and fair compensation for our clients. Call us today at 202-331-1963 or submit an online inquiry to schedule a free consultation with our team. With offices in Washington D.C., Alexandria, Virginia, and National Harbor, Maryland, we proudly serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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