In California, large trucks cause a vast number of accidents on the roads. The injuries that you can sustain during these accidents can be life-altering. So be sure you know what to look for when involved in a semi-truck accident on the roadways.
Common truck accident injuries
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries that can occur in a truck accident. Whiplash is usually caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head and neck and results in pain, neck stiffness and headaches. Another common injury is a concussion, caused by the head hitting an object or getting jolted violently. Concussions can cause symptoms such as dizziness, nausea and headaches. Loss of consciousness increases the severity of either of these injuries.
Other less common injuries in a truck accident include broken bones, internal bleeding and organ damage.
What should you do if you get injured in a truck accident?
If you or a loved one gets involved in a truck accident, the first thing you should do is seek medical attention. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s essential to get them checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Once you have seen a doctor, you will have several options.
You can choose to file a personal injury lawsuit against the truck driver or the trucking company. This means that you will have to prove that the motor vehicle accident was caused by the negligence of the truck driver or company. If you are successful, you may get awarded compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering.
You can also choose to file an insurance claim against the trucking company’s insurance policy. This is often quicker and less expensive than filing a lawsuit, but you will only receive a portion of the compensation you would get in a suit.
Although it’s not always possible to avoid getting involved in a truck accident, it’s possible to minimize your risk of injury. One of the best ways to do this is to ensure that you’re always aware of your surroundings on the road. This means paying attention to the trucks around you and keeping an eye out for their blind spots. For example, if you see a truck starting to change lanes, give them plenty of room to do so. It would help if you also avoided tailgating or cutting off a truck, as this could cause them to brake suddenly and potentially lose control.