Injuries Commonly Sustained in Trucking Accidents

When a heavy truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the size and weight difference significantly increase the risk of serious injury or fatality for the passenger car’s occupants compared to the truck driver. The substantial mass of a heavy truck can inflict severe damage on smaller vehicles, resulting in grave truck accident injuries for those inside.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 5,788 people killed and 154,993 people injured in traffic crashes involving large trucks in 2021. Of those fatalities, 72% were occupants of other vehicles, with Texas having the highest absolute number at 549 deaths. Texas also had the highest number of large trucks involved in fatal traffic crashes at 832, the largest number of total vehicles involved in fatal traffic crashes, and the largest number of people who lost their lives in crashes involving large trucks.

Large truck accidents frequently result in severe and life-altering truck accident injuries. Victims of commercial truck crashes caused by another party may be entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, other related costs, and pain and suffering. Thompson Law specializes in investigating and litigating commercial truck accident cases for injured individuals and grieving families throughout Texas.

Let Thompson Law answer your questions and help you understand your rights after suffering serious truck accident injuries in a crash. You can call us at (844) 308-8180 or contact us online.

Common Truck Accident Injuries

It’s easy to see why occupants of passenger cars and light trucks often face severe injuries, or even death, in collisions with large commercial vehicles. A fully-loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 40 tons. When these massive vehicles collide with a smaller motor vehicle, the force of impact exerted on a standard passenger car is significantly greater. This means the gravitational force in the car will significantly increase as it decelerates to a full stop over a shorter duration, leaving the occupants more susceptible to injuries.

The ground clearance of large commercial trucks poses a significant risk for underride accidents, where a smaller vehicle slides underneath the truck during a collision, often resulting in catastrophic truck accident injuries or fatalities. Rear underride guards are designed to prevent such accidents, but not all trucks are equipped with effective guards, and outdated or poorly maintained guards can fail during a crash. Side underride guards, although not mandatory in the United States, could also prevent many side-impact underride incidents.

Common personal injuries often resulting from truck accidents include:

• Broken Bones: The sheer impact can easily cause fractures in various parts of the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and the pelvis. Severe breaks may require multiple surgeries, prolonged immobilization, and extensive rehabilitation.
• Joint Injuries: Collisions with large trucks can result in severe trauma to the joints, particularly in the knees, shoulders, and wrists. These injuries often necessitate surgical intervention and extensive physical therapy, leading to prolonged recovery times.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These occur when the head experiences a violent impact or jolt, causing the brain to collide with the skull. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often leading to cognitive impairments and long-term disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The immense force of a truck collision can damage the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Victims may experience loss of sensation and motor function below the injury site, significantly impacting their quality of life.
• Internal Injuries: High-impact collisions often result in internal injuries, such as damaged organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
• Burn Injuries: In some accidents, fuel leaks or fires can cause severe burns to the occupants of passenger vehicles. Burn injuries often necessitate extensive medical treatments, including skin grafts and reconstructive surgeries.
• Amputation and Lost Limbs: The violent impact of a truck accident can cause severe trauma to the extremities, sometimes requiring surgical removal or causing the limb to be severed. Amputations are life-altering injuries, requiring extensive treatment, rehabilitation, and possibly prosthetics.
• Back and Spinal Column Injuries: Truck accidents can exert tremendous forces on the back and spinal column, leading to severe and often debilitating injuries. Victims might suffer from herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or even spinal cord compression. These injuries can cause intense pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and feet, restrict mobility, and necessitate long-term medical intervention.
• Whiplash: This common neck injury happens when the head is suddenly thrust backward and then forward. It can cause severe neck and shoulder pain, headaches, and even long-term complications such as chronic pain or limited range of motion.

Facing the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with huge medical bills, lost wages, and potentially lifelong costs of care. Trucking companies and their insurers might pressure you to accept a quick settlement; however, these offers are often significantly lower than what you need to cover all your personal injury damages.

At Thompson Law, we understand the complexities of commercial truck accident cases and the full scope of financial burdens victims must bear. Our skilled attorneys will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve, covering not only immediate costs but also future expenses related to your injuries.

Don’t settle for less. Let Thompson Law advocate for your rights and help you navigate this challenging time. Call us at (844) 308-8180 or contact us online to get started.

Contact Our Texas Truck Accident Attorneys

At Thompson Law, we believe everyone deserves high-quality legal representation, especially after suffering severe truck accident injuries. That’s why we offer FREE CONSULTATIONS for truck accident victims. During this consultation, you’ll discuss your case with our experienced attorneys who will provide a comprehensive overview of your legal options at no cost or obligation.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay NO UPFRONT LEGAL FEES, and you pay nothing unless we win your case. This allows you to focus on recovery without financial stress. Our proven track record includes securing multi-million-dollar settlements and verdicts for clients through meticulous preparation and dedication to justice.

Client satisfaction is our top priority, reflected in the excellent reviews we receive. We offer compassionate, personalized legal services to ensure every client feels supported. Let Thompson Law help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Schedule your free consultation today by calling (844) 308-8180 or contacting us online.