Drivers of large trucks involved in fatal crashes in 2021 had the highest rate of accidents (20.8%) compared to other vehicle types. These massive vehicles, when involved in collisions, are prone to causing catastrophic injuries that can permanently alter lives or result in immediate fatalities.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit or insurance claims. At the Porter Law Group, our experienced legal team has a proven track record of successful outcomes for our clients who suffered similar accidents.
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As such, here are some of the most common injuries that happen due to a truck accident:
1. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
This injury can occur when a truck accident causes the head to hit an object or shake violently. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, the damage can be confined to one area of the brain or happens in more than one area of the brain. The severity of a brain injury can range from a mild concussion to a severe injury that results in permanent disability, coma, or even death.
Even more alarming is that injuries to the brain can develop further, hours after the initial impact. This is why it’s important for victims to get immediate medical attention. They may even need to be monitored overnight to ensure the damage does not spread more.
2. Fractures
Due to the immense forces involved, broken bones are common in truck collisions. Fractures can range from simple to compound fractures where the bone penetrates the skin. Symptoms of bone fractures include:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Inability to move a part of your body like you usually can
- Bruising or discoloration
- A deformity or bump
These injuries may necessitate surgical intervention and an extended period of rehabilitation to facilitate recovery.
3. Amputations
The loss of a limb can occur during the accident or be medically necessary afterward. Crush injuries from truck accidents may also necessitate amputation.
Most who have suffered a traumatic amputation are left unable to work or provide for their families. This makes it essential for the responsible party to cover the medical expenses and compensate the victim and their family for their hardships.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries
The immense impact force in a vehicular accident can cause violent jerking motions or direct trauma to the spine. This can result in various types of paralysis, diminishing an individual’s quality of life. Victims with this injury may often be associated with a risk of developing complications such as:
- Spasticity
- (Chronic) Pain
- Urinary tract infections
- Pressure ulcers
- Respiratory complications
- Autonomic dysreflexia
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Osteoporosis
Spinal cord injuries from truck accidents have devastating long-term impacts. If you're affected, consult our skilled truck accident lawyers immediately to protect your rights and secure compensation for your future care and financial needs.
Causes Of Truck Accidents
The causes of truck accidents may not just be due to their large size and weight but also to the following factors:
| Factor | Description |
| Truck Driver Fatigue and Drug Use | A tired driver might fall asleep, be inattentive, or misjudge driving conditions. Controlled substances can also have a similar impact. |
| Truck Driver Errors | Driving errors, such as taking a curve too fast, exceeding the speed limit, and failing to monitor blind spots can lead to collisions. |
| Tractor-Trailer Equipment Problems | Manufacturing problems (defective tires), design errors (such as failing to provide backup warnings), or even break failure can lead to crashes. |
| Other Causes | Weather conditions, traffic signal failures, and faulty road design may also contribute to unfortunate accidents. |
It’s worth noting that truck-driver error is the leading cause of car accidents with big rigs, making it crucial for every truck driver to undergo a drug and alcohol test as mandated by the US Department of Transportation.
Who Can Be Liable in a Truck Accident?
A truck accident can result in multiple parties being held accountable for a victim's injuries and other non-economic losses. The entities that may be held responsible include:
- Truck driver
- Owner of the truck or trailer
- Cargo loader
- A truck manufacturer or a parts manufacturer
- A local government or contractor is responsible for highway design or maintenance.
In some cases, liability extends beyond the parties mentioned above. If the victim's actions contributed to the accident, their compensation may be reduced under the principle of comparative negligence. This legal concept apportions fault among all parties, potentially affecting the victim's final settlement or award.
Compensation for Truck Accident Victims
Victims of truck accidents may be eligible for compensation through two primary channels: personal injury settlements and insurance settlements. Often, victims receive a combination of both.
| Personal Injury Settlement | An agreement in which the plaintiff in a lawsuit agrees to give up their claim in exchange for financial compensation from the defendant. |
| Insurance Settlement | A compensation you receive from the at-fault person's (or company's) insurer. |
Given the potential complexity of truck accident cases and the often significant damages involved, seeking professional legal advice from our qualified truck accident attorneys can ensure fair compensation.
Get Compensation After a Truck Accident in New York.
Our seasoned personal injury lawyers can always lend their hand.
Speak to a Truck Accident Lawyer Today
At the Porter Law Group, our team of proven personal injury lawyers delivers ideal results. We take pride in helping families rebuild after unfavorable circumstances.
We operate on a contingency basis – meaning you do not need to pay us anything unless we win your case. Through this approach, we can better support families during their times of need.
If you or a loved one is a victim of a truck accident, please reach out to us for a non-obligatory free case evaluation. You can also contact us at 833-PORTER9 or info@porterlawteam.com to schedule a consultation.
