Semi-trucks dot the roadways and highways as they deliver the products we consume. While they provide a needed service, they can also cause accidents. Because of the size of semi-trucks and the speed at which they travel, accidents can often be catastrophic. Semi-trucks are usually the heaviest vehicles on the road and can seriously damage whatever they hit. Accordingly, semi-truck accidents are more severe than those that involve a car-on-car crash. In fact, in 2017, almost 4,800 people were killed in crashes involving semi-trucks, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Seventy-two percent of those killed in semi-truck accidents in 2017 were passengers or drivers of the other vehicle involved. Semi-trucks can do a lot of damage. Not every accident is fatal, but, there are some common injuries associated with semi-truck wrecks.

What are some common truck accident injuries?

Back, neck, and shoulder pain can occur after an accident involving a semi-truck. The impact of an accident can damage joints, muscles, tendons, and soft-tissue areas. Back pain can come out of nowhere after an accident and be detrimental to daily activities. Pain from pinched nerves or sciatica can be debilitating. Semi-truck accident injuries to the spinal cord can be devastating and lead to paralysis.

Because of the force involved in semi-truck accidents, broken bones may be more frequent than accidents involving cars.

Head trauma and brain injuries are also common in semi-truck accidents. Headaches are one of the most common ailments experienced after an accident. It may be only a tension headache or something more serious, like the sign of a traumatic brain injury.

The symptoms of a concussion can be more serious. Along with a headache, other symptoms could include dizziness, blurred or double-vision nausea, sensitivity to noise and/or light and mood, sleep or appetite changes. If you have these symptoms after a truck accident, you should be examined by a medical professional, as a concussion can cause chronic issues and long-term health problems.

Whiplash can cause symptoms very similar to a concussion. Whiplash occurs when the muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the neck are stretched out during the impact of a car accident. Symptoms of whiplash can include fatigue, blurred/double vision, pain in the neck or head, shoulder, stiff and sore muscles, and restricted range of motion. It can be challenging to diagnose whiplash, so it’s important to pay attention to the symptoms.

Injuries to internal organs are common in semi-truck accidents. These are difficult to treat and include things like bleeding of the liver, kidneys, or pancreas. Additionally, severe damage to the rib cage and torso can occur. Lacerations are also common in semi-truck accidents and can leave heavy scarring.

Not all symptoms to watch for after a semi-truck accident are physical. Mental health issues can also arise and are just as important to look for. Traumatic events may lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD signs can include flashbacks, nightmares or distressing memories of the event, or anxiety over things that remind you of the accident. Additionally, mood, appetite or sleep changes, and general anxiety or depression can be signs of mental distress.

The injuries suffered in a semi-truck accident may not initially be apparent, which is why someone who is suffering from an injury due to a truck accident should consider getting medical attention as soon as possible.

Hurt in a Truck Accident? Contact William Mattar Law Offices.

The personal injury lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices have years of experience representing those injured in truck accidents. We know how to help our clients receive maximum compensation. Contact us 24/7 to schedule a free consultation.