When you’re involved in a truck accident, the consequences can reverberate throughout your life in ways you might never have anticipated. From physical injuries to emotional trauma, financial strain, and legal complexities, the aftermath of a truck accident can be overwhelming and life-altering.
According to Statista’s latest report, in 2020, the US saw around 107,000 large truck accidents where passengers were injured. From 2020 to 2021, the involvement rate in fatal crashes per 100,000 registered large trucks rose from approximately 37.37 to 41.13.
In all these accidents, the worst sufferers are, without any doubt, the truck accident victims. Here’s how.
Physical Injuries and Long-Term Health Effects
Given the immense size and weight of commercial trucks, accidents involving these vehicles can lead to serious injuries such as fractures. Treating these injuries often necessitates comprehensive medical interventions, encompassing surgeries, rehabilitation, and continuous therapy.
Moreover, even seemingly minor injuries can have long-term health effects. Soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash or muscle strains, may worsen over time or lead to chronic pain conditions. In more severe instances, survivors may endure lasting disabilities or persistent pain affecting their livelihoods and capacity to carry out daily tasks or employment.
Just last year, in Spokane, Washington, a local motorcyclist was paralyzed for life after getting hit by a truck. According to KHQ, the man was paralyzed from the waist down after the accident, with a slight chance of ever getting to walk again.
Emotional Trauma and Psychological Impact
Beyond the physical injuries, truck accidents can leave lasting emotional scars on survivors.
The experience of being involved in a traumatic event, such as a truck accident, can trigger a range of emotional responses. Many survivors also experience symptoms of acute stress disorder or PTSD, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance.
The psychological impact of a truck accident can extend beyond the immediate aftermath, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.
As reported by The Conversation, even psychological debriefing after an accident doesn’t do a lot of good to the victims. Victims need time to heal from such trauma, something that can take years and not just a quick debriefing session.
Legal Proceedings
TorHoerman Law reports that managing the legal repercussions following a truck collision can prove intricate and overwhelming. Assigning responsibility in such cases typically implicates various entities, such as the truck operator, the transportation firm, vehicle producers, and insurance providers.
In most cases, truck accident victims will hire a personal injury lawyer to deal with their case. Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky, as was the case last year in St. Louis, Missouri.
As reported by FOX 2, a truck crashed into a car and killed a person. Had they been alive, they would’ve called in a St. Louis truck accident lawyer and had them handle the case of their crash.
Financial Burden and Economic Losses
In addition to the physical and emotional toll, truck accidents can impose a significant financial burden on those involved.
Medical expenses alone can quickly accumulate, including emergency room bills, hospitalization costs, doctor’s fees, prescription medications, and rehabilitation services. Moreover, if injuries prevent victims from working or require long-term disability leave, they may face a loss of income and financial instability.
Furthermore, property damage to vehicles and other personal belongings adds to the financial strain. Repairing or replacing a damaged car or motorcycle, along with any other possessions damaged in the accident, can be costly. Additionally, ongoing medical treatment and therapy may incur substantial expenses, especially if victims require specialized care or assistive devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happens when a person gets hit by a truck?
Numerous injuries may result from being struck by a truck, ranging from broken bones and traumatic brain injury to internal bleeding and beyond. The extent of these injuries hinges on variables such as the truck’s speed, weight, and the specific point of impact.
How long does it take to recover from a truck accident?
Certain injuries necessitate surgical intervention to alleviate pain, while others demand cosmetic procedures to restore the victim’s original appearance. On average, the healing process for these injuries typically spans about six to eight weeks.
What type of lawyers handle truck accident cases?
Lawyers who handle truck accident cases typically specialize in personal injury law or specifically in the area of trucking accidents. These lawyers are often referred to as personal injury attorneys or truck accident attorneys.
In conclusion, the aftermath of a truck accident can be devastating, affecting every aspect of survivors’ lives. From physical injuries and emotional trauma to financial strain and legal complexities, the consequences of a truck accident can be profound and long-lasting.
Seeking medical treatment, legal representation, and emotional support are crucial for navigating the challenges of recovery and rebuilding resilience in the face of adversity.
