Semi-truck wrecks are some of the worst and most complex accidents that motorists can experience. The sheer size and weight of these commercial vehicles can lead to difficult outcomes, both in terms of immediate physical injuries and the emotional and psychological toll that follows.
For those who find themselves facing the aftermath of an 18-wheeler collision, understanding the common types of injuries that may result is crucial. When semi-trucks strike, they can leave motorists facing sky-high medical bills and months of lost wages. In the worst cases, a tractor trailer collision can result in fatalities.
When negligence causes catastrophic injuries or death, drivers and their families deserve compensation. Here’s everything you need to know about injuries in the aftermath of 18-wheeler accidents.
3 Most Common Injuries That Result from 18-Wheeler Wrecks in Birmingham, AL
Collisions involving 18-wheelers can lead to a wide range of injuries, ranging from immediate physical harm to long-term psychological distress. While the specific injuries can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the collision, there are three common types that frequently result from these high-impact accidents:
- Serious injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
- Fatal Injuries
- Psychological injuries can also be expected and can be just as impactful (if not more so) as the physical damage.
Serious Injuries
These injuries can cause significant pain, discomfort, and disruption in a person's life in the immediate aftermath of a collision. Personal injury attorneys and truck wreck lawyers often need to address these short-term injuries as part of their clients' claims. Common serious injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Concussions
- Bone fractures
- Cuts and burns
- Soft tissue injuries
- Bruises, swelling, and bleeding
Personal injury lawyers never underestimate short-term injuries, since they can still result in medical bills, lost wages, and suffering for their clients. It's crucial to document and address these injuries to ensure that clients receive appropriate compensation for their immediate pain and inconvenience.
Additionally, semi-truck wreck lawyers consider the potential for these short-term injuries to develop into longer-term or chronic conditions, warranting ongoing medical care and financial support.
Catastrophic Injuries
Chronic injuries after an 18-wheeler collision often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and recovery. These are injuries that can significantly impact a person's quality of life and ability to earn income.
Personal injury and auto collision lawyers are particularly attentive to these types of injuries when representing their clients. Here are common long-term (chronic) injuries:
- Amputations
- Chronic pain
- Orthopedic issues
- Respiratory problems
- Neurological disorders
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Seeking comprehensive compensation for these long-term injuries is vital when helping clients secure their future well-being and quality of life. Speak with a licensed tractor trailer accident attorney who has experience handling 18-wheeler collision cases if you are diagnosed or have symptoms of any chronic injuries or illnesses following an accident.
Fatal Injuries
At 80,000 lbs on average, semi-trucks hit hard. Even at low speeds, a tractor trailer is carrying enough momentum to overpower standard car safety features. This frequently results in fatal collisions.
When you lose a loved one to a semi-truck wreck, you deserve compensation. The right truck wreck lawyer can help you make the best possible case and offset devastating expenses while you grieve and adjust.
A personal injury lawyer can help you seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Funeral expenses
- Pain & suffering
- Lost lifetime income
- More
Psychological Injuries
In the aftermath of an 18-wheeler collision, it's not only physical injuries that victims may contend with; the psychological toll can be equally, if not more, impactful. Your personal injury and auto collision lawyer recognizes the prevalence of psychological injuries and their profound impact on a client’s life. Here are common psychological injuries resulting from such accidents:
- Phobias
- Sleep disorders
- Emotional distress
- Cognitive impairments
- Depression and anxiety
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
These injuries can be just as debilitating as physical ones, and they often require specialized treatment, counseling, or therapy to address. Recognizing and seeking compensation for the emotional and psychological toll of an 18-wheeler collision is essential for the well-being and recovery of clients.
What Should I Do After An 18-Wheeler Collision?
Experiencing an 18-wheeler collision is a traumatic and often overwhelming event. Often, survivors are unable to move, dangerously wounded, or even trapped inside their vehicle in dangerous conditions.
If you’re able, there are a few steps you can take to protect your well-being, legal rights, and potential compensation for any injuries or damages you may have suffered. Notably, here is a general six-step process to follow:
- Prioritize safety
- Call the police
- Exchange information with other parties involved
- Document the scene with photos
- Seek medical attention even if you feel fine
- Call your personal injury attorney
Avoid admitting fault, inform your insurance company, and preserve evidence related to the incident. Always consult a personal injury attorney BEFORE accepting any settlement offers to protect your legal interests.
Contact The Experienced Attorneys At Low Cost Lawyer
Thanks to modern legal technology, we’re able to offer quality legal advice and representation at an industry-low 30% contingency fee. Let us pursue justice and compensation on your behalf without taking a bigger bite out of your recovery funds. Call our legal team today at 855-595-8889 or contact us online.