Because of the violent forces involved, truck accident injuries are often severe and life-changing. As attorneys, we often see injuries in truck crash cases that require extensive medical treatment, long-term recovery, or cause permanent disabilities. Some of the most common injuries from tractor-trailer collisions include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

The impact with a heavy truck can cause head injuries ranging from concussions to severe brain trauma. TBIs can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, mood changes, and require prolonged rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The crushing forces in a truck crash can damage the spine. Victims may suffer herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, or even paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia) if the spinal cord is severed. These injuries often require surgery and can cause permanent mobility issues.

Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries

It’s common for car occupants to sustain multiple fractures in a truck collision. Legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis are particularly vulnerable. Serious fractures may need surgical fixation and months of therapy. Amputations can also occur in catastrophic crashes.

Internal Injuries

The blunt force trauma can injure internal organs such as the lungs (punctured by a broken rib), liver, spleen, or kidneys. Internal bleeding is life-threatening and not always immediately apparent at the scene. This is why prompt medical evaluation after a truck crash is essential, even if you “feel okay” at first.

Severe Lacerations and Burns

Shattered glass, twisted metal, or even a post-crash vehicle fire can cause deep cuts, scarring, or burns. These injuries might result in disfigurement and require plastic surgery or skin grafts.

Whiplash and Neck/Back Injuries

Even in less severe crashes, the whiplash effect from a large impact can strain neck and back muscles and ligaments. In high-impact truck crashes, however, these soft tissue injuries often accompany more serious spinal damage as noted above.

Fatal Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

Tragically, many truck accidents are fatal. Nationwide, large trucks are disproportionately involved in deadly crashes. Although they make up a small fraction of vehicles, truck accidents account for roughly 13.4% of all U.S. traffic fatalities. If you have lost a loved one in a truck accident, you may have a wrongful death claim to seek compensation and hold the wrongdoers accountable.

The Importance of Immediate Medical Care

Always prioritize getting comprehensive medical care after a truck accident. Not only is this vital for your health, but having detailed medical records linking your injuries to the accident is also key evidence in your claim against the truck driver or company. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident in Chicago, contact Fabbrini Law Group today for a consultation.