13 Common Truck Accident Injuries in California

The aftermath of a truck accident can be devastating, with injuries ranging from wrongful death and severe brain injuries to short-term soft tissue damage and whiplash.

Considering the size and weight of most commercial trucks, it is not surprising that truck accidents can result in some of the most catastrophic injuries on the road.

13 Common injuries from a truck accident

Below are some of the most common trucking injuries that victims may sustain in a crash:

1. Traumatic brain injury

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex injury with a broad spectrum of symptoms and disabilities. It occurs when an external force causes brain dysfunction, typically through a blow to the head, often seen in truck accidents due to the high impact of collisions.

Symptoms can range from mild, such as concussions, to severe, involving extended periods of unconsciousness or amnesia. TBIs can lead to long-term complications or death and may require extensive rehabilitation for physical and cognitive recovery.

The impact of a TBI can be devastating not only for the injured but also for their families, as it can significantly alter an individual's personality, ability to work, and quality of life.

2. Internal injuries

Internal injuries after a truck accident are often life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. The force of impact in such collisions can cause damage to organs and internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent to the victim.

Common internal injuries include ruptures or lacerations to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs. These injuries can lead to significant complications, including organ failure, and often necessitate surgical intervention.

The hidden nature of internal injuries highlights the importance of seeking medical evaluation after any significant accident, even if no external injuries are evident. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving outcomes for those suffering from internal trauma.

3. Lacerations

Lacerations often result from the shattering of glass, metal fragments, and other debris during a collision. These deep cuts can range from minor to severe, potentially leading to significant blood loss, infection, and scarring. The recovery process may involve stitches, surgery, and in some cases, physical therapy to regain full function and reduce scarring.

Additionally, the psychological impact of disfiguring scars can be profound, affecting the victim's self-esteem and mental health. Immediate and appropriate medical treatment is important to prevent infections and promote healing, underscoring the severity of lacerations as a common injury in truck accidents.

If you've been injured in a Southern California truck accident, come and see how a Burbank truck accident lawyer from our law firm can help you with your next steps.

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4. Organ damage

Organ damage in truck accidents can be a direct result of the sheer force exerted during the collision. The impact can bruise, tear, or crush internal organs, leading to immediate and sometimes long-term health issues.

Organ damage often involves critical body parts such as the heart, lungs, and liver, which can compromise the victim's bodily functions and overall well-being. The severity of these injuries sometimes necessitates emergency surgery and can result in prolonged hospital stays, extensive medical treatments, and rehabilitation.

Victims may face challenges not only in physical recovery but also in the financial burden of ongoing medical expenses. The consequences of organ damage extend beyond physical health, impacting the individual’s ability to work, engage in everyday activities, and maintain their quality of life.

5. Scar

Scarring and disfigurement from a truck accident can be among the most visible and psychologically impactful injuries. These injuries often result from severe lacerations, burns, or surgeries required to treat other injuries sustained in the accident. Scars can be large and noticeable, particularly if they are on the face or other exposed parts of the body, leading to considerable emotional and mental distress.

Disfigurement can require multiple surgeries and long-term rehabilitation efforts to address, and even then, some scars may remain visible, serving as a constant reminder of the traumatic event. Victims may face challenges with their self-image and experience social anxiety, depression, or other psychological issues as a result.

The path to recovery includes not only physical healing but also psychological support and, in many cases, cosmetic procedures to reduce the visibility of scars, all of which highlight the complex and multifaceted nature of recovery from such injuries.

6. Spinal cord injury

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) are among the most severe consequences of truck accidents, with the potential to result in permanent disability, including paraplegia or quadriplegia. These injuries occur when the trauma from the collision impacts the spine, causing damage to the spinal cord. The extent of the injury often depends on the area of the spine that is affected.

Victims may experience a complete or incomplete loss of motor function and sensation below the site of injury, leading to a drastic change in the victim's lifestyle and independence. Recovery can be lengthy and typically involves rehabilitation, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.

The emotional, physical, and financial toll of spinal cord injuries can be overwhelming, not only for the victims but also for their families, as they adapt to new challenges and care requirements.

7. Whiplash

Whiplash is a common neck injury resulting from the sudden acceleration-deceleration force in rear-end or side-impact collisions. This rapid forward and backward movement of the head and neck can stretch and tear the muscles and ligaments, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.

Symptoms of whiplash may not appear immediately and can develop days after the accident. Treatment often involves pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, wearing a cervical collar to support the neck during the healing process.

Early intervention is vital to prevent chronic pain and other long-term complications associated with whiplash. The condition underscores the need for prompt medical assessment following any vehicle collision, even when symptoms are not immediately obvious.

8. Wrongful death

Wrongful death in the context of truck accidents is a legal term used to describe a situation where a person dies as a result of the negligence or misconduct of another party, typically involving a commercial vehicle. These tragic occurrences not only lead to emotional pain but also impose financial hardships on the surviving family members.

Compensation in such cases may cover:

Funeral expenses
Lost wages
Lost companionship
Emotional suffering of the deceased's relatives

Pursuing a wrongful death claim requires navigating complex legal processes, often necessitating the expertise of a skilled personal injury attorney who specializes in truck accident litigation.

It's vital for the grieving family to seek legal advice promptly to ensure that their rights are protected and to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions. The goal is not only to seek justice for the untimely loss but also to prevent similar incidents in the future by addressing the underlying issues that contributed to the accident.

If you need further legal support, take a look at how a Glendale truck accident lawyer from our injury law firm can assist you further.

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9. Back injury

Back injuries usually occur from the intense impact and force inflicted upon the body during such events. These injuries can range from minor strains and sprains to more severe conditions such as herniated discs, fractures, and spinal cord damage.

The back, being integral to almost every movement, means that any injury sustained can severely limit a person's mobility and ability to perform daily tasks. Victims may experience chronic pain, requiring long-term pain management strategies and possibly even surgical interventions to alleviate symptoms and restore function.

Recovery from a back injury can be a slow and challenging process, often involving physical therapy, chiropractic care, and sometimes alternative treatments to aid in rehabilitation. The financial impact of treating back injuries can be significant, including medical expenses, lost wages, and the need for ongoing care.

Given the complexity of back injuries and the potential for long-term or permanent disability, victims must receive a comprehensive medical evaluation after a truck accident. This ensures that all injuries are properly diagnosed and treated promptly, helping to prevent further complications and supporting the best possible outcome for recovery.

10. Bone fracture

Bone fractures resulting from truck accidents are often serious due to the high-impact forces involved. These fractures can range from simple breaks that may heal with time and minimal treatment, to complex fractures that require surgical intervention, including the insertion of rods, plates, or screws to stabilize the bone structure.

The recovery process for bone fractures can be lengthy and painful, often necessitating physical therapy to restore strength and mobility. In addition to the physical challenges, patients may also face significant financial burdens due to medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses related to their injuries.

The severity of the fracture, along with the location of the injury, greatly influences the recovery timeline and the potential for long-term impacts on the victim’s quality of life.

11. Burns

Burns resulting from truck accidents, though less common than other types of injuries, can be one of the most severe and life-altering injuries a victim may suffer. These injuries typically occur in accidents involving fires, explosions, or hot surfaces and can range from minor first-degree burns requiring minimal treatment, to severe third-degree burns covering large areas of the body.

The physical and emotional recovery from serious burns can be a prolonged and painful process, involving not just the healing of the physical wounds but also coping with potential scarring, disfigurement, and the psychological impact such as trauma and anxiety. Victims may require multiple surgeries and long-term specialized care to manage pain, and prevent infection.

In addition to the immediate and ongoing medical challenges, the financial implications of treating severe burns can be overwhelming, encompassing hospital stays, surgical procedures, rehabilitation, and possibly equipment or modifications needed for daily living.

12. Amputations

Amputations resulting from truck accidents represent one of the most devastating outcomes, fundamentally altering a victim's life and necessitating a profound adjustment to a new way of living. Such injuries typically occur during catastrophic collisions, where limbs may be severely damaged beyond repair, leading to surgical removal.

The recovery and rehabilitation process for amputees involves not only physical healing but also extensive psychological support to adapt to the loss of a limb. Victims often require prosthetic limbs, which, while improving mobility and function, also present a significant financial burden due to the high cost of medical devices and the need for ongoing adjustments and replacements.

Furthermore, vocational training or career changes may be necessary, given the impact of the amputation on the victim’s ability to perform previous job functions. Legal assistance becomes crucial in these cases to secure adequate compensation for the immense life changes and expenses incurred.

13. Hemorrhages

Hemorrhages, or excessive bleeding, are a critical concern in truck accident injuries, presenting a major risk for trauma victims. These can occur internally or externally and are particularly dangerous because they can be difficult to detect immediately after an accident. Internal hemorrhages may happen in vital areas such as the brain, abdomen, or chest, leading to rapid deterioration of the victim's condition if not treated urgently.

The initial assessment and rapid intervention by medical professionals are crucial to managing hemorrhages effectively. Treatment may involve:

Surgery to repair damaged vessels or organs
Blood transfusions to replace lost blood
Intensive care monitoring to ensure stable recovery

The prognosis depends significantly on the location and severity of the bleeding, as well as the speed of medical response.

Given the potential for life-threatening complications associated with hemorrhages, victims of truck accidents necessitate immediate and comprehensive medical evaluation to identify and address any instances of excessive bleeding.

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10 Types of truck accidents

Each type of truck accident not only poses unique risks but also necessitates specific responses to effectively manage and mitigate the aftermath for those involved.

1. Jack-knife accidents

Jackknife accidents occur when a large truck, such as an 18-wheeler, folds at the point of articulation between the cab and the trailer, resembling the shape of a folding knife. This type of accident is often caused by sudden braking, slippery roads, or improper maneuvers by the truck driver.

The consequences of jackknife accidents can be devastating, leading to multi-vehicle pile-ups, severe injuries, and even fatalities. The design of the roadway, weather conditions, and the speed of the truck at the time of the accident are critical factors that influence the severity of the incident.

2. Rollover accidents

Rollover accidents represent one of the most hazardous types of trucking accidents, characterized by the truck tipping over onto its side or roof. These accidents are particularly dangerous due to the potential for crushing injuries to occupants of smaller vehicles and the risk of cargo spillage, which could lead to secondary accidents or environmental hazards.

Factors contributing to rollovers include driver error, such as excessive speed or sharp turns, load imbalances, and poor road conditions. Preventative measures, including proper loading practices, driver training, and adherence to speed limits, are essential to minimize the occurrence of such devastating incidents.

3. T-Bone accidents

T-Bone accidents, also known as side-impact collisions, occur when the side of a vehicle is hit by the front or rear of another vehicle, forming a "T" shape at the point of impact. These types of crashes are especially common at intersections, where failure to yield the right of way or running a red light can lead to catastrophic outcomes.

The dynamics of T-bone accidents often result in significant damage to the vehicle's structure, compromising the safety of those inside. Occupants on the struck side are at a higher risk for serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and broken bones, due to the lesser degree of protection compared to front or rear-end collisions.

4. Rear-end collisions

Rear-end collisions result when a vehicle crashes into the one directly in front of it. These incidents often result from distracted driving, sudden stops, tailgating, or poor road conditions.

While rear-end collisions can vary in severity, even low-speed impacts can lead to serious injuries such as whiplash, head injuries, and spinal cord damage. The force of the impact can thrust occupants forward and then abruptly backward, putting tremendous strain on the body.

5. Wide-turn collisions

Wide-turn collisions occur primarily with large commercial trucks attempting to make right turns. These trucks often need to swing left to execute a right turn, creating a wide turning radius that can encroach into adjacent lanes and potentially trap smaller vehicles between the truck and the curb. This maneuver poses significant risks, particularly in urban areas with dense traffic and tight street layouts.

The visibility issues associated with large trucks exacerbate the dangers of wide-turn collisions. Blind spots, or "no-zones," around trucks limit the driver's ability to see smaller vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists that may be in the path of the turn. Awareness and caution from both truck drivers and other road users are crucial to prevent these accidents.

6. Mechanical failures

Mechanical failures are a significant cause of accidents on the road, attributing to various circumstances that compromise safety. These failures may involve critical components such as brakes, tires, steering mechanisms, or engine issues, each of which can catalyst a dangerous situation, especially at high speeds or in heavy traffic.

Brake failures, for instance, can prevent a truck from stopping in time, leading to rear-end collisions or run-off-road accidents. Similarly, tire blowouts can cause a driver to lose control, potentially leading to rollover or jackknife incidents. Preventative maintenance is essential to mitigate the risks associated with mechanical failures.

7. Unsecured or overloaded cargo

Unsecured or overloaded cargo accidents occur when the freight carried by a truck is not properly fastened or exceeds the vehicle's maximum load capacity. These incidents can result in cargo shifting or spilling onto roadways, creating hazardous conditions for other drivers and leading to multi-vehicle collisions, injuries, or fatalities.

Overloaded trucks also have a higher risk of rollover and tire blowouts due to the excessive weight, which compromises the vehicle's stability and maneuverability. Ensuring cargo is securely tied down and within legal weight limits is vital for preventing these types of accidents.

8. Tire blowouts

Tire blowouts are particularly dangerous because they can cause the driver to lose control of the vehicle, potentially leading to rollovers, collisions with other vehicles, or off-road crashes.

Factors contributing to tire blowouts include:

Improperly maintained tires
Overloading
Long periods of driving under extreme weather conditions

It’s critical for trucking companies and drivers to regularly inspect tires for signs of wear, adhere to recommended tire pressures, and replace tires before they become dangerously worn.

9. Underride accidents

Underride accidents are catastrophic traffic collisions where a smaller vehicle crashes into the rear or side of a trailer truck and slides underneath it. This type of accident is particularly deadly because the top of the passenger vehicle is often sheared off, or the vehicle becomes lodged under the truck, severely impacting the survival chances of the occupants.

The severity of underride accidents is heightened due to the significant height difference between the undercarriage of a large truck and the passenger compartment of most cars, leaving little to no space for safety structures of the smaller vehicle to absorb the impact effectively.

10. Head-on collisions

Head-on collisions with trucks are often severe and can lead to catastrophic outcomes due to the high velocity and force of impact. Trucks are particularly dangerous in head-on collisions due to their weight and size, which can result in significant damage to smaller vehicles and severe injuries or fatalities.

Factors contributing to head-on collisions include distracted driving, drunk driving, wrong-way drivers, or poor road conditions. To prevent these accidents, drivers must remain alert and focused on the road at all times and drive defensively to avoid potential hazards.

Contact us today at (818) 806-0844 to schedule your free consultation!

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Have you suffered a truck accident injury in California?

If you or a loved one has been involved in a truck accident, securing capable legal representation is crucial. Arzoomanian Law specializes in providing compassionate and formidable legal assistance to victims of trucking injuries.

Given the complexities surrounding truck accident cases, including dealing with insurance companies and navigating through the legal proceedings, our expertise becomes your leverage.

Our dedication to achieving justice for truck accident victims is best illustrated by the story of John, a client who suffered significant injuries in a underride accident:

"After my accident, I felt overwhelmed and uncertain about my future. The team at Arzoomanian Law not only guided me through the intricacies of dealing with insurance companies and medical bills, but they also secured a settlement that has allowed me to focus on recovery without the stress of financial burden. Their empathy and professionalism made all the difference during one of the most challenging times of my life."

Our commitment is to provide this level of support to every client, ensuring they receive the legal representation they deserve.

We also recommend checking out our comprehensive guide on what to do after a truck accident. This resource covers essential steps to take immediately following an accident, tips for dealing with insurance companies, and the importance of seeking legal counsel.

Further information and advice that might help you

California Truck Accident Statistics: Recent statistics from the National Safety Council show an alarming increase in truck accidents within the state, emphasizing the importance of heightened awareness and stricter safety measures. In 2021, there were 437 deaths from large truck crashes in California, which makes it one of the top states for truck accident fatalities.
Preventive Measures: Both truck drivers and other motorists play a vital role in accident prevention. For truckers, adhering to maintenance schedules, proper cargo loading, and continuous safety training are key. Motorists should remain vigilant around trucks, avoid blind spots, and give them ample space for maneuvering.
Legal Advice Post-Accident: Immediately after a truck accident, it’s imperative to collect as much evidence as possible and seek medical attention for any injuries. Contacting an experienced truck accident attorney can greatly impact the outcome of your case, offering you the best chance for receiving the compensation you deserve.
Impact on Insurance: Truck accidents can significantly affect insurance claims and premiums for involved parties. For victims, understanding how to navigate through the claims process with the help of an attorney can prevent unjust increases in premiums and ensure fair compensation.
Technological Advances: Innovations in vehicle technology, like automatic braking systems, stability control, and fleet management software, are making significant strides in preventing truck accidents. These technologies not only enhance safety but also offer data for improving driving practices and vehicle performance.
Regulatory Changes: The trucking industry is subject to ongoing regulatory changes aimed at reducing accidents. Recent updates to the hours of service regulations for truck drivers are designed to ensure they have adequate rest, reducing the likelihood of accidents due to fatigue.

Arzoomanian Law is dedicated to standing by your side through every step of your truck accident claim. No matter the complexity, we have someone on hand to offer comprehensive legal support and representation.

Call us today today at (818) 806-0844 for a free initial case evaluation!