18 wheelers are big, heavy, pieces of machinery. They can cause big accidents with big injuries. Drivers may not be the most qualified. They may not be properly trained. Or they may be tired and distracting themselves to stay awake. Trucking companies may neglect their duty to hire good drivers. They may also cut corners when it comes to maintenance. Whatever the cause, 18 wheeler accident injuries can be major.
Common 18 Wheeler Accident Injuries
Trucking accidents cause a variety of injuries for the people they hit. Injuries can range from broken bones to severe burns. People may not be aware of the full extent of their injuries right after the wreck. Some injuries may take time to reveal themselves. Whatever your injuries, it is important to get the medical care that you need. Common injuries caused by trucking accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis – paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
Recovering from these injuries can take years. Medical bills, physical and occupational therapies are very expensive and can add up fast. If a victim of a truck accident can no longer walk, you may have to make changes to your home or move to a new home. You may also need 24-hour care for you or a loved one depending on the extent of the injuries. Recovery costs can include:
- Doctor bills
- Prescription costs
- Wheelchairs, ramps, or lifts
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Nursing care
- Future surgeries or procedures
- Handicap accessible vehicles
- Handicap friendly homes
The cost of all of these things can be great. Even with insurance or government assistance, families may not be able to pay for all of the medical costs. Making sure the trucking company pays what they should, makes a huge difference.
Lost Wages Due to Truck Accident Injuries
If you’ve been hurt in a truck accident, you might not be able to work. Right now, most families depend on each paycheck. Losing time out of work can be very hard for working families.
Even after you’ve recovered from your injuries, you may not be able to do the same job. Some wounds, such a brain injuries or spinal cord injuries, can prevent you from performing the same duties. If you can’t do your job, you may lose your job. Your employer may not be able to use you somewhere else. Unemployment can devastate families.
If you’ve lost wages or lost your job, don’t be quick to settle for the bare minimum an insurance company may try to offer you. Fight hard for the compensation you deserve. Your attorney should be willing to take up this fight.
The Trucking Company is Already Working Against You
When a truck accident happens, the truck companies and their insurance companies get to work quickly. They are looking for ways to defend themselves. They are coming up with reasons to deny your claim. They want to pay as little as possible for your injuries. Contact a trucking attorney right away. You need a team of experts working to build your case. You need an experienced 18 wheeler accident attorney on your side. Contact Chelsie King Garza today for a free consultation.