Common Truck Accident Injuries

Common Truck Accident Injuries

According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), the number of large trucks and buses involved in fatal crashes in 2015 increased by 8 percent from the previous year, jumping from 3,749 trucks to 4,050. However, injury-only large vehicle crashes dropped one percent, from 88,000 to 87,000.

While the factors that contribute to these crashes can be many, data analysis by the FMCSA found that driver behavior is the leading cause of trucking accidents above weather and road conditions and vehicle performance. In fact, data revealed that speeding was cited in 33 percent of fatal large truck accidents.

No matter what causes a big rig crash, the injury potential to passenger vehicle occupants, cyclists, pedestrians, and even those in other large trucks is exponential. Some of the more commonly seen injuries from large truck accidents include-

Head and Brain

In all crash types, the head, face, and brain are susceptible to severe injury. From hitting the steering wheel, dash, windshield, or other hard interior surface, to the jarring, whip-like action that brain endures when the head is slung forward and back and side-to-side with the force of impact, the head, face, and brain are particularly vulnerable large truck accidents. Concussions, traumatic brain injury, coma, and even death occur far too often in these crashes.

Back and Spine

Nearly half of all spinal cord injuries are caused by motor vehicle crashes. Because of the size and weight of large trucks, the likelihood of suffering a spinal cord injury is increased for those in smaller vehicles and those riding motorcycles, bicycles, and traveling on foot. Damage to the spinal cord and the tangle of nerves housed within can cause varying degrees of paralysis and change the victim’s life forever.

Torso and Lower Extremities

When a vehicle is struck broadside by a large truck severe injuries are often sustained to the side of the body. The neck, shoulder, hip, and leg often suffer the force of impact leading to severe injuries. A low-speed hit can cause the side of the vehicle to intrude into the passenger space, while in a high speed or violent collision, the front of the truck itself may intrude into the passenger space with catastrophic consequences.

Front-and rear-end collisions with big trucks can also have a detrimental effect on the torso and extremities as the weight and momentum of the truck is no match for any passenger vehicle. The force of these type of impacts may cause the truck to over-ride the smaller vehicle which may result in passenger crush injuries.

Psychological Harm

Being involved in a truck collision can result in serious emotional and psychological effects that can be long-lived. In fact, it would not be unusual for the victim to suffer Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

If you have been hurt in a large truck crash, having to worry about medical costs, bills, daily living costs, and supporting yourself and your family will only slow recovery and healing. Fortunately, financial compensation may be available to you for your injuries, suffering, lost wages, and other damages. Fill out the form for a free consultation and learn more about how to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.


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