Trucks are a regular fixture on the roads in Texas. Unfortunately, their presence increases the risks of accidents. Certain types of injuries are more common in these types of incidents.
Traumatic brain injury
Truck accidents are often much worse than car accidents because of the massive size and weight of the vehicles. Catastrophic injuries are common in accidents involving trucks. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) ranks as one of those that victims are likely to suffer. They occur when the head suffers harsh impact or when an object penetrates the skull and brain.
Neck and spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries affecting the neck or back are common after a truck accident. Victims can suffer chronic pain or even paralysis from the waist down or neck down depending on the part of the spine impacted. These injuries require a lifetime of care and may even shorten a person’s life.
Broken bones
With such severe impact from a truck accident, broken bones are among the most common injuries. In the worst cases, victims could be left with compound fractures that require immediate medical attention. The broken bone may need to be put back in place. Afterward, physical therapy can help the individual recover and regain range of motion in the injured area.
Limb amputations
Motor vehicle accidents involving big rigs can result in limb amputation injuries. Victims can lose a single limb or more than one, which can impact the rest of their lives. These injuries often require extensive surgery.
Scarring and disfigurement
In the worst-case scenario, a truck accident can leave a victim with scarring and disfigurement. Trucks often tote dangerous substances as cargo, which can result in explosions or burns and result in such injuries.
Soft tissue injuries
Truck accidents commonly leave victims dealing with soft tissue injuries. These injuries affect the muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments and can cause chronic pain depending on their severity. Surgery might repair the damage, but the person might still be left with ongoing pain.