Truck accidents can cause devastating injuries, often due to negligence, reckless driving, or excessive speed. Driving safely is everyone’s responsibility, and it’s better to arrive late than risk an accident that could lead to life-long consequences.
Injuries sustained in truck accidents can vary greatly, and compensation depends on the nature and severity of these injuries. Let’s explore some common types of injuries and the potential compensation that may be awarded.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries occur when the brain is impacted, often due to a head injury during the accident. This can result in severe brain damage, including memory loss. The injury can be:
- Closed Head Injuries: These occur when the brain strikes the inside of the skull during an accident, such as when the victim’s head jolts forward suddenly. This can cause tissue damage, brain swelling, bleeding, or fluid buildup.
- Open Head Injuries: These occur when the head is struck by a hard object, such as a windshield, steering wheel, or dashboard, leading to skull fractures or punctures. These injuries often have long-term effects, including the risk of infection.
Compensation: For TBI, compensation can range from $20,000 to $80,000, depending on the medical evidence and the settlement negotiated. In severe cases, compensation can reach up to $2.9 million. However, if the victim is found partially at fault, they may be responsible for some of the expenses.
Back and Neck Injuries
Back and neck injuries might not be immediately apparent after an accident but can develop over time. Symptoms can include numbness, vertigo, headaches, and pain. These injuries often require long-term care or rehabilitation, so it’s crucial that your compensation covers both medical care and lost wages.
Compensation: Settlements for back and neck injuries can range from $10,000 to $100,000, depending on the severity and supporting medical documentation.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Truck accidents can cause fractures in various parts of the body, including the limbs, ribs, skull, and pelvis. These injuries can be severe, requiring surgeries, immobilization, and rehabilitation.
Compensation: The amount varies based on the injury’s severity but generally ranges from $25,000 to $1 million. It’s important that your lawyer fights for the full amount necessary to cover your losses.
Spinal Cord Injuries
The spinal cord is crucial for transmitting signals from the brain to control body functions. Spinal cord injuries from accidents can lead to permanent mobility issues, paralysis, and loss of sensation.
Compensation: Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious, with compensation potentially reaching up to $2.9 million.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including damage to muscles, tendons, ligaments, and connective tissues, are common in truck accidents. These injuries can result in swelling, limited mobility, pain, and bruising. Seeking immediate medical attention is critical.
Compensation: The compensation amount varies based on the injury’s severity, but a skilled lawyer can help secure a fair settlement based on the medical evidence provided.
Amputations
Extreme force during an accident can lead to traumatic amputations or infections that require amputation. This is not only a physical loss but also a psychological one, requiring extensive emotional care, medical treatment, rehabilitation, and prosthetics.
Compensation: Depending on the accident and amputation, compensation can range from $20,000 to $120,700. It’s crucial that the victim’s family and lawyer ensure fair compensation for the loss of a limb, income, and related expenses.
Burns and Lacerations
Burns and lacerations can occur if a truck or vehicle catches fire or is exposed to hazardous materials. Burns can range from first-degree to third-degree, while lacerations can lead to scarring and significant pain.
Compensation: Yes, you can and should claim compensation for burns or lacerations. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you shouldn’t have to cover the costs. Compensation for these injuries can reach up to $10,000.
Psychological and Emotional Injuries
The mental impact of an accident can be profound, affecting the victim’s stability and well-being. Some people may require therapy or psychiatric care to overcome the trauma. Emotional distress isn’t always temporary—conditions like anxiety and chronic pain can have lasting effects. Compensation for psychological injuries should be pursued, with the help of a lawyer and the support of family.
Final Note:
Don’t let others manipulate you due to a lack of knowledge. For consultations and advice, approach SunsetWest to build your understanding. You have every right to seek compensation, and having a lawyer by your side is a significant advantage. Let them handle the legal work while you ensure that all evidence provided is legitimate and supports your case.