- Because large trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, collisions frequently result in severe injuries.
- Internal injuries, TBIs, and emotional trauma may develop hours or days after the crash, making prompt medical evaluation critical for both your health and proper documentation.
- Seeking medical care, documenting evidence, and consulting a truck accident attorney can help ensure responsible parties are identified and that you pursue the full compensation available.
Commercial truck accidents are often far more dangerous than typical car crashes because of the massive size and weight of these vehicles. Fully loaded commercial trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, meaning collisions frequently result in severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, internal organ injuries, and serious burns.
Understanding the types of injuries that commonly occur in truck accidents can help you recognize symptoms and seek appropriate medical care. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a truck crash, speaking with an experienced truck accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options. At DiBella Law Injury and Accident Lawyers, our team supports truck accident victims as they recover and pursue compensation for their injuries. Contact our law office today to schedule a free consultation.
Types of Injuries Commonly Caused by Commercial Truck Accidents
Commercial trucks are roughly 20 times heavier than a passenger car. When a smaller vehicle collides with a tractor-trailer, the force of the impact and the height of the truck can expose occupants to significant trauma or death. One source from 2023 found that 65% of people killed in large truck crashes were occupants of the smaller vehicle involved.
As a result of the difference between large trucks and passenger vehicles, victims of commercial truck accidents frequently suffer serious injuries that require extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries, also referred to as TBIs, are among the most serious injuries seen in commercial truck crashes. When a large truck crashes into a smaller vehicle, the force of the impact can throw passengers into the dashboard or windshield at tremendous speed, causing serious damage to the brain. These injuries can range from concussions to severe, long-term brain damage that affects memory, speech, and the ability to perform everyday tasks.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The spine has many parts and plays an essential role in bodily movement. The extreme force of a commercial truck collision can compress, fracture, or sever the spinal cord, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. Even less severe spinal trauma can require extensive treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care.
Broken Bones and Crush Injuries
Broken bones are among the most common injuries reported in truck accidents, with the collarbone, ribs, arms, and legs being especially vulnerable. The sheer force of a truck collision commonly causes broken bones and fractures. In more severe crashes, vehicles may become crushed or pinned beneath the truck, which can result in catastrophic injuries such as amputations or permanent disability. Many victims need surgery, metal rods or pins, and months of physical therapy just to regain basic function.
Internal Organ Damage
Blunt-force trauma from a crash can damage internal organs such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. These injuries are especially serious because there may be no visible signs right after the crash, causing some victims to delay getting medical help. Without fast treatment, internal bleeding can become life-threatening within hours.
Severe Burns
Psychological Injuries
Accidents involving large commercial vehicles can lead to psychological injuries such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and a fear of driving. In Massachusetts, these emotional and psychological injuries may be compensable damages in a personal injury claim.
What To Do if You Suffered Injuries in a Commercial Truck Accident
After a commercial truck accident, taking the right steps can help protect both your health and your ability to pursue compensation. Because trucking accidents often involve serious injuries and complex investigations, it is important to act carefully in the days following the crash.
- Seek immediate medical attention: Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it is important to be evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries, including concussions or internal bleeding, may not appear right away but can worsen without prompt treatment.
- Document everything: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Keep records of medical visits, treatment plans, expenses, and communications related to the crash. This documentation can play a critical role in supporting your claim.
- Consult a truck accident attorney: Truck claims are complex because multiple parties, such as the driver, trucking company, cargo loaders, or maintenance providers, may share liability for the truck accident. An experienced attorney can help investigate the crash, identify liable parties, and protect your legal rights while you focus on recovery.
Learn more about whether you have a claim for compensation today by contacting DiBella Law.
Injured in a Commercial Truck Accident? Talk to Us Today
Truck accidents often result in severe injuries, complicated insurance claims, and multiple parties who may be responsible for the crash. Having legal guidance can help you better understand your rights and options while you focus on your physical, emotional, and financial recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, consider speaking with an attorney about your options. Our team has secured hundreds of favorable case results on behalf of our clients. Call (855) 342-3552 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.