More than 300,000 accidents involving large commercial vehicles occur every single year on the roads and highways of the United States. Data reported by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) indicates that in 2011, commercial truck and bus accidents caused 4,018 deaths and an additional 112,000 injuries. These figures are alarming because injuries stemming from large truck accidents tend to be severe and have a significant effect on victims’ lives. Commercial vehicles are larger than other vehicles on the road and can weigh up to 80,000. When traveling at highway speeds, the force of a collision can destroy a smaller passenger vehicle, which is why victims often suffer debilitating or permanently disabling injuries. If you have been injured in an accident with a large commercial vehicle, you should contact a Coweta County truck accident lawyer as soon as possible to see if you can get compensated for your injuries.
Injuries in truck accidents commonly include:
- Spinal injuries: Injuries to your vertebrae in your back or neck may cause permanent partial or total paralysis, as well as loss of sensation, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and more. This injury may require you to be in a wheelchair and have constant care for the rest of your life.
- Brain injuries: Collisions often involve blows to the head, which may easily cause traumatic brain injury. This type of damage can cause problems with you physical movements, cognitive abilities and understanding, and mental and emotional states, and may make everyday tasks difficult or impossible.
- Crushed limbs: If your bones are crushed, you may require extensive surgery, rehabilitation, or even amputation of one or more limbs.
- Burns: Often truck collisions cause fires or explosions, especially if the truck is carrying hazardous materials
These are only some of the injuries you may suffer in a truck accident. No matter what your injury, always make sure you call Shane Smith Law at (980) 246-2656. An experienced truck accident attorney is here to help you recover.