Injuries from truck collisions are often painful and life-changing. The National Safety Council reported 5,837 fatal truck crashes in 2022. That same year, 120,200 trucks participated in collisions with injured people.
Heavy vehicles travel Kentucky’s roads and highways every day. So, understanding why a collision with a truck is so dangerous and why the injuries are so devastating is worth it.
Why Is A Truck Accident So Dangerous?
Car accidents can occur at any time. For smaller cars, the results are not always fatal. However, at least five reasons make truck crashes more dangerous and deadly:
- Size and weight: Trucks’ weight and size make accidents more serious. At the same time, these factors make driving a heavy vehicle challenging. For example, it is more difficult for drivers to brake or avoid obstacles.
- Impact force: This point is related to the previous one. Physics explains that the greater the weight and size of a vehicle, the greater the impact force.
- Cargo: The goods or products being transported in a truck from one place to another can make an accident more serious. In a collision, cargo may spill and cause further damage. This can involve heavy objects, such as building materials, or even more hazardous substances, such as chemicals.
- Driving difficulty: Driving a truck is a challenging job that requires experience. However, a truck driver who is untrained or inexperienced cannot react to any eventuality. Also, factors such as distracted driving or drunk driving can make the situation worse.
- Mechanical problems: Mechanical issues with the truck can lead to an accident. Engine failure, steering or tire issues can affect the vehicle’s handling.
Every driver should pay attention to the road and use caution when driving near a heavy vehicle.
Why Are The Injuries Life-Changing?
Truck accident injuries are life-changing. The damages and traumas caused by a collision can be permanent. In addition, medical treatment is expensive and prolonged. Most victims cannot afford to pay for it. Some common injuries after a truck accident are:
- Brain Damage
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal injuries
- Burn injuries.
- Broken bones
Truck accidents can cause permanent injuries. In the most severe accidents, a person can lose all mobility or suffer an amputation. That is why these types of injuries are life-changing.
Victims also face medical bills. They may need to see specialists, get a diagnosis, take X-rays, see a physical therapist, and purchase medications.
These are not easy injuries to treat. They take time and recovery is not guaranteed. Victims can apply for compensation, which can help them pay for medical bills. They can contact an experienced truck accident attorney for more information.