How to Prepare for a Consultation with a Truck Accident Lawyer

Why Do Commercial Truck Collisions Result In More Traumatic Injuries?

• Commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than standard passenger vehicles, which is one of the reasons they can cause more severe injuries in an accident. The weight of a loaded commercial truck can be up to 80,000 pounds, while the weight of a typical passenger vehicle is around 3,500 pounds. This significant weight difference means that the force of impact in a truck accident can be much greater than in a typical car accident, leading to more serious injuries.
• Another factor that contributes to the severity of injuries in truck accidents is the height of the truck’s bumper. Commercial trucks are designed to sit higher off the ground than passenger vehicles, which means that in a collision, the truck’s bumper can strike the passenger vehicle’s passenger compartment, causing severe injuries to the driver and passengers.
• The design of the passenger compartment of commercial trucks also contributes to the severity of injuries. Unlike passenger vehicles, commercial trucks do not have safety features such as airbags and seat belts designed specifically for the protection of the occupants. In addition, many commercial trucks have large blind spots that can make it difficult for the driver to see smaller vehicles, increasing the risk of accidents.
• The cargo carried by commercial trucks can also contribute to the severity of injuries in a truck accident. If the cargo is not properly secured, it can shift during transport and cause the truck to become unstable or tip over, leading to more severe accidents and injuries.
• Lastly, fatigue and distracted driving are common causes of truck accidents. Truck drivers are often under pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to fatigue and reduce their ability to react to hazards on the road. Additionally, distracted driving, such as using a mobile phone or eating while driving, can also increase the risk of accidents and injuries.

What Injuries Are Typical In Accidents Involving Trucks?

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) –  A traumatic brain injury is one of the most serious injuries that can occur in a truck accident. This occurs when the brain is damaged due to a blow or jolt to the head, such as hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. Symptoms of TBI can range from mild, such as headaches and dizziness, to severe, such as seizures, memory loss, and coma.
• Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) – A spinal cord injury occurs when the spinal cord is damaged due to the impact of the accident. This can result in partial or complete paralysis of the limbs or other parts of the body. SCI can also cause loss of sensation and loss of bowel and bladder control.
• Broken and Fractured Bones –  Broken bones are a common injury in truck accidents due to the force of the impact. The most common bones that are broken in truck accidents are the ribs, arms, legs, and collarbone. Depending on the severity of the fracture, broken bones may require surgery and a lengthy recovery period.
• Internal Injuries – Internal injuries are injuries that occur to internal organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately apparent after the accident and can cause significant damage if not treated promptly.
• Burns – Burns can occur in a truck accident due to fires or explosions. Burn injuries can range from minor to severe and can require extensive medical treatment and surgery.
• Soft Tissue Injuries – Soft tissue injuries are injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. These injuries can occur in a truck accident due to the sudden impact of the accident. Symptoms of soft tissue injuries include pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
• Psychological Injuries – Psychological injuries such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can also occur in truck accidents. These injuries can have a significant impact on the victim’s quality of life and may require ongoing treatment and therapy.

1 – Gather Information – The first step in preparing for a consultation with a truck accident lawyer is to gather all the relevant information related to the accident. This includes the police report, medical bills, insurance documents, and any other relevant documents. Make sure to have copies of all the documents, as the lawyer may need to refer to them during the consultation.