A run-in with an 18-wheeler isn’t like a typical car accident.
When an 80,000-pound truck collides with your vehicle, you’ll feel the impact for months or even years. Physical injuries, emotional trauma, and legal headaches are just a few of the health-related issues you could face.
But there’s more to the health impacts of truck accidents than most people realise…
You can spend weeks in the hospital, months rehabbing your injuries, and years dealing with legal issues. Your health and well-being are at risk in so many ways after a crash.
So here’s the deal: Most people don’t understand the full scope of health impacts that result from a truck accident. They think it’s just a matter of getting a broken bone set and then returning to their normal lives.
But that’s just the beginning of your journey.
What you’ll discover:
- The Hidden Health Costs of Truck Accidents
- When Physical Injuries Turn Into Long-Term Problems
- The Mental Health Battle Most People Ignore
- Legal Steps That Actually Matter for Your Recovery
- How to Build a Strong Case While You’re Healing
The Hidden Health Costs of Truck Accidents
Want to see something that will really blow your mind? In 2023, 5,472 people were killed in large-truck crashes, and 70% of those deaths were occupants of other vehicles like your car. Every death represents thousands of injuries and associated health issues.
It’s easy to dismiss the fatality numbers and think, “well, at least I survived.” Here’s a stat that will make you sit up and take notice… 153,452 injuries occurred in large-truck crashes in 2023.
That works out to 420+ people being injured in truck accidents every single day. When you include drivers and passengers in cars and trucks, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists, you realise just how common serious injuries and death are.
But what the numbers don’t show are: The real health impact of being involved in a truck accident. Colliding with a vehicle that’s 20 to 30 times the weight of your vehicle changes the physics of a crash dramatically.
When Physical Injuries Turn Into Long-Term Problems
Are you hoping your broken ribs will heal, and that’s the end of your story? Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but truck accident injuries have a nasty habit of causing long-term problems. Years after a crash, victims are forced to deal with chronic pain and health issues that originated with the accident.
Here are the most common long-term health problems victims face:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even mild concussions can lead to memory issues, headaches, and concentration difficulties for years
- Spinal Cord Damage – Neck and back injuries that result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, and in some cases, partial paralysis
- Internal Organ Damage – Liver, kidney, and spleen injuries that require ongoing medical care
- Bone Fractures – Complex breaks that fail to heal properly and lead to arthritis or mobility issues later in life
One of the worst aspects of these injuries is the delayed symptoms. You might think you walked away fine, but a few weeks later, you discover you have internal bleeding, a brain injury, or joint damage. If you have to deal with these complex health and legal issues, consult with a truck accident lawyer in Omaha as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and you receive necessary medical treatment.
The Mental Health Battle Most People Ignore
Here’s one mental health impacts of truck accidents that most people don’t discuss… Serious crashes often lead to PTSD, anxiety, and depression. These mental health conditions are incredibly common in accident survivors.
Take a minute to consider what you were thinking when you saw an 80,000-pound truck plough into your vehicle. The fear, terror, and stress you felt don’t just disappear once your physical injuries heal.
Many people end up with a fear of driving, or they can’t be a passenger in a vehicle. Others have panic attacks if they see a large truck on the road. Sleep disorders and insomnia are also common after a serious crash.
The mental health impacts include:
- PTSD and flashbacks to the accident
- Severe anxiety related to driving or being in vehicles
- Depression from dealing with injuries and life changes
- Sleep disorders and nightmares
- Social isolation due to mobility or fear issues
Insurance companies tend to minimise these mental health issues. They’ll pay to fix your broken bones, but make getting coverage for therapy and psychiatric treatment nearly impossible.
Legal Steps That Actually Matter for Your Recovery
Do you want to protect your health and your future? You must take specific legal steps immediately after the crash. Here are the actions that matter most.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s still a good idea to get evaluated by a doctor. Some injuries take hours or days to show symptoms, and you’ll need medical records for your claim. This isn’t just a health-related step – it’s also about building your case.
Document the Accident
Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage. Get contact information for any witnesses. Write down everything you can remember while it’s still fresh.
Don’t Speak to Insurance Companies Alone
The trucking company’s insurance will call within hours of the crash. They’ll act friendly and helpful, but they’re not: They’re not your friend.
Here’s what they’re really doing: Trying to minimise their liability and protect their bottom line.
Hire a Competent Attorney
This is where so many people make a huge mistake. Some people think they can handle their own insurance claim, while others hire the first lawyer they see advertised on TV.
Truck accident cases are unique. They involve federal regulations, multiple insurance policies, and more than one potentially liable party. You need someone who knows the trucking industry inside and out.
The right legal representation can make all the difference between a fair settlement and being completely taken advantage of by insurance companies.
How to Build a Strong Case While You’re Healing
Building a strong legal case while recovering from serious injuries is no small task. But it’s necessary if you want fair compensation.
A strong case should include:
Medical Documentation
Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, including hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, medication, and mental health care. Documentation is vital in establishing the full extent of your injuries.
Financial Impact Records
Track all accident-related costs, including medical bills, lost wages, transportation, and modifications. Future costs should also be included. If you require ongoing care or are unable to return to work, this must be included as part of your case.
Expert Witnesses
Serious injury cases often require expert witnesses to testify about long-term health impacts and accident-related future problems. Medical experts may be needed to discuss your prognosis and ongoing care requirements.
Taking Control of Your Recovery
The facts are clear – truck accident deaths are up 49% over the last decade, and health impacts on accident survivors are more severe than ever.
But here’s the thing you need to know: You don’t have to go through this alone. The right legal team can help ensure you get the medical care and financial compensation you deserve.
Your health is your most important asset. Don’t let insurance companies shortchange your recovery because you didn’t take the right legal steps at the start.
Truck accident cases are complex, and the health impacts of a crash can last a lifetime. With proper medical care and strong legal representation, you can focus on healing while professionals fight on your behalf.
Don’t wait. Take action now. Your health and financial security depend on the steps you take today.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, or professional advice. Truck accident laws, procedures, and outcomes vary depending on the circumstances of each case and the jurisdiction in which it occurs. You should not rely solely on the information provided here to make decisions about your health, legal rights, or financial situation. Always seek the advice of a qualified legal professional regarding any legal matter, and consult a licensed medical practitioner for diagnosis, treatment, or advice relating to injuries or health concerns. Open MedScience does not accept responsibility or liability for any actions taken, or not taken, based on the contents of this article.
