What Types of Catastrophic Injuries are Caused by Truck Accidents?
It is natural to feel overwhelmed when driving around 18-wheelers on the highway. These vehicles are extremely large and heavy. One look at them makes it quite clear that a crash would be disastrous for the occupants of a smaller vehicle. Unfortunately, this is a reality too many people face every year in Texas. The Lone Star State leads the nation in both truck accidents and fatal truck collisions. Even when other drivers and occupants survive these crashes, they often suffer catastrophic injuries. Our San Antonio truck accident lawyer explains what these are in greater detail below.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic brain injuries, commonly referred to as TBIs, are not only some of the most severe injuries caused by crashes involving trucks, but they are also among the most common. The force of the impact can cause the brain to crash the interior of the skull, leading to bleeding, bruising, and tearing of critical brain tissue. A TBI can result in many symptoms, including:
- Memory loss
- Cognitive impairments
- Physical disabilities
- Personality changes
The financial burden of a TBI is also significant. Initial emergency treatment can cost tens of thousands of dollars and severe cases that require immediate surgery can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Lifelong care can exceed tens of millions of dollars.
Amputations
An amputation can occur accidentally at the scene of the crash or, surgically afterward when a limb or appendage cannot be saved. Amputations require prosthetics, rehabilitation, and continued medical care, which all contribute to long-term costs. Additionally, accident victims often have to relearn how to perform simple tasks such as walk or perform daily household chores.
Severe Burns
18-wheelers often carry large amounts of fuel and during a crash, this can result in fires that cause severe burns. Burns are not only one of the costliest injuries to treat, but they are also some of the most painful and require invasive treatment. Victims often have to receive treatment in specialized burn centers undergoing months of physical therapy and recovery. Additionally, burns can also cause permanent scarring and disfigurement, leading to a lifetime of embarrassment for victims.
Internal Injuries
Blunt force trauma can result in perforated organs, collapsed lungs, internal bleeding, and other internal injuries. Although these injuries are not visible, they are life-threatening and obtaining treatment right away is of critical importance.
Psychological Injuries
Truck accidents are traumatic. It is not uncommon for people to suffer from anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the weeks, months, and years following the crash. While these injuries are also not visible, they can be debilitating and impact a victim’s ability to work afterward. Psychological trauma is a loss suffered just like medical expenses after a crash and those damages deserve compensation for it.
Our Truck Accident Lawyer in San Antonio Can Help After Catastrophic Injury
At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our San Antonio truck accident lawyer knows the devastating impact of these crashes and the injuries they cause. We also know how to help clients through the claims process and ensure their best interests are protected at all times. If you or someone you love has been hurt, call us today at 210-LAW-9999 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
