Common Truck Accident Injuries

The elevated risk of severe injuries because of a truck’s size and weight is one of the reasons truck accident cases differ from car accidents. Although truck accident injuries and their consequences are diverse, certain common injuries can be identified.

Before examining these in greater detail, it is important to note that any person involved in a truck accident should undergo a medical evaluation. See a doctor even when injuries seem light, or no injuries are immediately apparent.

Consulting a Lexington truck accident lawyer immediately after an accident can help ensure your rights are protected.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Survivors of truck accidents are subject to heavy impacts, and broken bones and fractures are among the most common injuries encountered. In many instances, accident victims sustain multiple fractures requiring surgery and lengthy recovery times. When bones and their surrounding tissues are crushed, amputation of limbs may be necessary.

Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

The brain and spinal cord are vulnerable to injury during truck accidents, even when they occur at comparatively low speeds. Possible injuries include:

• Whiplash (a soft tissue injury that may also affect the upper spinal cord)
• Full or partial paralysis due to spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

These injuries can have lifelong consequences, affecting a person’s ability to function normally and requiring long-term medical care.

Internal Injuries

Injuries to internal organs and internal bleeding are possible after almost any type of road accident, but the risk is even greater in accidents involving trucks. Apart from the crash force itself, the structural collapse of the vehicle may penetrate or crush the bodies of its occupants, causing internal injuries.

Chest and abdominal injuries are common after truck accidents. Affected organs may include the lungs, liver, or spleen. In some instances, no external injury is visible, and symptoms are not immediately apparent. This is among the top reasons why people who have been involved in truck accidents should receive prompt medical attention.

Severe Wounds and Burn Injuries

Torn metal, broken glass, and crushing may cause severe wounds during a truck accident. If ignition or a chemical spill occurs, there is an additional risk of burns.  Following initial emergency treatment, accident survivors may be left with disabilities or disfigurements that affect their ability to function in society.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Sprains, strains, and deep bruising are usually considered less serious, and most victims can expect a full recovery. However, in certain instances, damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain and decreased mobility.

Psychological Harm

Being in a truck accident is a horrific experience that often leads to long-term psychological distress. The events surrounding the accident itself, as well as the consequences of personal losses and injuries, may lead to severe anxiety, depression, or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Truck Accident Injuries and Compensation

If you are lucky enough to walk away from a truck accident in Kentucky with mild injuries, your PIP insurance should cover your medical costs. Unfortunately, not everyone is this fortunate. Consult our Lexington personal injury attorney for an informed opinion on your chances of recovering compensation.

With representation from Gary C. Johnson P.S.C. Attorneys at Law, many Kentucky truck accident survivors have successfully recovered compensation that covers their medical costs and more. Your medical team takes care of your health. Your legal team works to protect your financial well-being. We go the extra mile. Contact us for a free consultation.