Truck accidents can lead to serious and even catastrophic injuries. Given the size and weight of a commercial truck, an accident that involves it can be fatal. If a victim sustains deadly injuries after a truck accident in Alpharetta, their loved ones may have to pursue an insurance claim to seek compensation. Truck accident claims are more complicated than other motor vehicle accidents because several parties can be involved. That is why victims usually need a Ponton Law truck accident lawyer to handle their cases.
Common Injuries that Can Result from Truck Accidents
In accidents that involve a commercial truck, drivers, pedestrians, and passengers can suffer different kinds of injuries that can be either mild or serious, depending on the circumstances and impact. Below are common injuries victims may sustain in a truck accident:
- This a neck injury that develops when the neck is violently moved back and forth during a collision. Its symptoms include shoulder pain, neck stiffness, and headaches.
- Traumatic brain injury or TBI. This injury develops when the head strikes a part of a vehicle with intense force during a collision with a truck. Symptoms of this injury include headaches, loss of consciousness, nausea, mood changes, and poor coordination.
- This develops when the head is subjected to a forceful blow, resulting in unconsciousness or brain damage. Its symptoms include vomiting, headaches, sensitivity to light, fatigue, and confusion.
- Broken bones. Fractures can occur due to impact with the steering wheel or another sharp object in a car. These injuries often require long-term treatment and surgery. Serious cases may lead to chronic pain and permanent disability.
- Scrapes and lacerations. During a collision, broken glass can lead to minor injuries that necessitate immediate medical attention.
- Muscle sprains and tears. Damage to the ligaments and tendons can result in swelling, limited mobility, and bruising. These require rehabilitation for lasting effects.
- Internal injuries. Internal injuries can be sustained in a truck accident. Their symptoms include dizziness, abdominal pain, and bruising around the impacted part of the body.
It’s important to understand such injuries to ensure timely treatment and recovery following a truck collision. If you experience symptoms or injuries after this type of accident, seek immediate medical attention. This is important for your safety and potential insurance claim.
Steps to Take After a Truck Accident
After a truck accident, the scene can be chaotic. But try not to panic or leave the crash scene. After this accident, below are the things to keep in mind:
- Take yourself to safety. If you are still conscious following the collision, pull your car over on the road’s safe side and wait for help to come. To avoid facing legal charges, stay at the scene until authorities arrive.
- Call the authorities. If the police arrive at the accident scene, they will evaluate the situation and make a police report. You can use this reference for your injury claim. This report will include information on the crash, including all the injured victims and possible vehicle damage.
- Seek immediate medical attention. Even if your injuries are minor, wait for emergency responders to arrive. The paramedics can evaluate for hidden problems such as internal bleeding. Such precaution is important because some victims may not experience immediate symptoms. In addition, document your injuries by keeping test results and prescriptions. Such records offer vital evidence for your accident case, making sure your condition after the crash is accurately represented.
- Exchange contact details. Exchange contact information with all parties involved, if possible. Such information is essential for your insurance claim. Also, collect statements from those who witnessed the accident, if you can. The accounts of these witnesses can offer valuable support.
