What makes a truck accident catastrophic?

On Behalf of | Aug 4, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

A crash of any kind can lead to any number of outcomes. However, one involving a semi-truck often leads to severe consequences.

Across Illinois and the country, truckers traverse roadways to transport goods. While they operate within specific parameters to protect them and other drivers, accidents continue to occur. Learn more about why truck accidents often rise to the catastrophic level.

What is a catastrophic accident?

A truck accident gets classified as a catastrophic event. The physics involved when a big rig collides with a car leaves both with extensive damage. Fatalities are higher in semi-truck accidents. If someone does survive a semi-truck crash, he or she likely has life-changing injuries that the medical community considers catastrophic.

What are typical catastrophic injuries in truck crashes?

When someone withstands a collision with a semi, it may end with catastrophic injuries to the body.

Traumatic brain injury

A traumatic brain injury is the result of some damage to the brain. A TBI may prove temporary, as in a concussion, or it may necessitate a complete change of lifestyle if it is extensive. Someone with a TBI may no longer maintain control over movements, form new memories or recall old ones, among other things.

Spinal cord damage

Directives from the brain to the rest of the body travel through the spinal cord. When it faces damage, it may no longer provide that service. Paralysis from the point of damage down is a typical catastrophic injury from a truck accident.

Burns

While some burns may prove recoverable, others may impact a large section of skin and organs. This may leave a person in great pain and unable to function unaided.

Trucks are a necessary part of the supply chain. Remaining extra cautious may prove lifesaving.

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