Collisions involving semi-trucks often lead to catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight of these vehicles. A fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, making accidents far more destructive than standard car crashes. A lawyer, like a semi-truck accident lawyer, knows that the force of impact in these collisions increases the likelihood of life-altering injuries that require long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and significant financial support.
Types Of Severe Injuries From A Truck Accident
A truck accident lawyer knows that victims of semi-truck accidents often experience injuries that permanently affect their ability to work and live independently. Some of the most serious injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI). Head trauma from a crash can result in memory loss, cognitive impairments, difficulty speaking, and long-term neurological issues.
- Spinal Cord Damage. Injuries to the spine can lead to paralysis, loss of motor function, and chronic pain.
- Amputations. High-impact collisions may cause severe limb damage that requires surgical amputation.
- Severe Burns. Fires or explosions from fuel leaks in truck accidents can lead to burns requiring extensive medical treatment and skin grafts.
- Internal Organ Damage. Blunt force trauma can cause damage to internal organs, which may require emergency surgery and ongoing medical care.
These injuries often lead to long-term disability, requiring continuous treatment, medical equipment, and personal assistance. The financial burden can be overwhelming, making compensation an important part of recovery.
Challenges In Recovering Compensation
Due to the severity of injuries in semi-truck accidents, medical expenses and lost wages can add up quickly. Victims may need extensive rehabilitation, home modifications, and assistive devices. Insurance companies and trucking companies may attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether to protect their financial interests.
Trucking companies often have large legal teams and insurance adjusters working to reduce liability, making it difficult for victims to recover full compensation without strong legal support.
Evidence That Can Strengthen A Claim
Building a strong case after a semi-truck accident requires thorough documentation and evidence, including:
- Accident Reports. Official records from law enforcement outline what happened.
- Medical Records. Detailed reports from doctors and specialists showing the extent of injuries.
- Witness Statements. Testimonies from people who saw the accident occur.
- Black Box Data. Electronic logging device (ELD) records that show the truck’s speed, braking, and driver activity before the crash.
- Surveillance Footage. Video from traffic cameras or nearby businesses that may capture the accident.
Seeking Compensation For A Life-Changing Injury
Victims of semi-truck accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost income, rehabilitation, and pain caused by their injuries. Because these cases involve large trucking companies and insurers, a strong legal strategy is often needed to pursue fair compensation. Attorneys like those at Johnston | Martineau PLLP can attest to the challenges victims face when seeking compensation for catastrophic injuries. The impact of a catastrophic injury goes beyond immediate medical care, affecting a person’s ability to work and maintain their quality of life. Seeking financial recovery can help ease the burden and provide necessary resources for long-term care. Speak with a lawyer about compensation today.