. . .
What to Expect From a Truck Accident

Truck accidents can have a devastating impact on the people involved. Many times, the victim will have injuries to their torso and ribs, but they also will have to deal with psychological trauma. In order to help people understand what they can expect from an accident and what they can do to minimize their risk, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has put together a brief summary of common types of truck accidents.

You might also want to learn about how negligence is established in a truck accident.

Under-ride collisions

Under-ride collisions are among the most dangerous large truck accidents, causing death and severe injuries. They are caused by the height difference between a passenger car and a large truck. They are also common in bad weather conditions and low light situations.

The International Institute for Highway Safety estimates that underride crashes occur in about 80-90% of tractor-trailer side and rear crashes. Although these numbers may seem high, there are a number of things that can be done to reduce the chances of underride crashes.

The first step is to have your truck properly marked. This includes placing cones, lights, and warning flares behind the trailer. It is also important to make sure the driver of the vehicle is not tired or under the influence.

Rear-end collisions

Rear-end collisions in truck accidents can be devastating. In addition to the physical damage, many people have to deal with debilitating injuries. Luckily, most of these accidents are avoidable.

One of the most common rear-end collision causes is speeding. Another is failing to obey a stop sign. Still another is tailgating.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a rear-end collision, call 911. You should also seek medical care right away. If you wait too long to get medical treatment, it can make the situation even more dangerous.

Usually, the most serious injuries in a rear-end collision are the ones in the head and neck. Whiplash is a common injury. It can cause sprains, strains and tears in the soft tissues. Often, a whiplash injury will require physical therapy.

Side-impact collisions

Side impact collisions occur when a vehicle strikes the side of another vehicle. These accidents are more common than rear-end collisions, but they are dangerous and often result in serious injuries or fatalities.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) estimates that approximately 24 percent of motor vehicle accident fatalities involve a side-impact crash. This means that more people die in side-impact crashes than any other type of crash, and a majority of these deaths are fatal.

The frequency of side-impact collisions warrants a comprehensive analysis of injury patterns. In addition, most people who suffer from these crashes do not recover from their injuries on their own. Therefore, a qualified attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.

Sideswipes

Sideswipes are collisions where the driver of one vehicle makes contact with the side of the driver of another vehicle. They usually occur when a driver is merging into the highway or turning. This type of crash can result in the car flipping over and crashing into other objects.

These crashes can cause serious and catastrophic injuries, especially in large commercial trucks. Victims can experience internal organ damage, spinal cord injuries and bone fractures. If you are the victim of a sideswipe, you can seek compensation for your injuries. However, it is not always easy to seek restitution from the trucking company. You may need the help of an experienced trucking attorney to determine your options.

Torso and rib injuries

If you are involved in a truck accident, you may be at risk for torso and rib injuries. These injuries can be life-threatening, if not properly treated. There are things you can do to reduce your risk.

If you have been in an accident, contact your doctor immediately. He or she will be able to tell you what you need to do to get better.

Broken ribs are extremely painful. Injuries to the ribs can affect your breathing and cause serious complications. Your doctor will likely recommend pain medication and injections.

A broken rib is especially dangerous because it can tear the aorta, resulting in a ruptured aorta and internal bleeding. It can also cause damage to nearby organs such as the lungs and kidneys.

Psychological trauma

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, you may have suffered psychological trauma. This condition can affect your life and your ability to function in the world. While the physical injuries can be treated quickly, the psychological effects can take a while to go away.

Those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often experience symptoms like flashbacks, distorted guilt, insomnia, a loss of interest in enjoyable activities, and difficulty functioning in social and professional situations. PTSD is a mental condition that occurs after a traumatic event, such as a car accident. It can be serious, and requires the help of a qualified doctor.