Serious Injuries from Truck Accidents

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reports 7,000 semi-truck accidents in the state in 2023. A fully loaded tractor-trailer can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds in our state. When a crash happens, the consequences can be terrible. There is a significant risk of serious injuries. Our truck accident attorney can provide an overview of the most common serious injuries in 18-wheeler crashes in South Carolina.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

A serious brain injury can change your entire life. Unfortunately, TBIs are among the most common truck accident injuries reported in South Carolina. People can suffer severe head trauma due to the massive force of impact that comes with a crash. Victims may suffer long-term harm, even permanent physical or cognitive impairments. Traumatic brain injuries can affect memory, speech, emotions, and mobility. Immediate medical care is a must.

Broken Bones

The sheer force of a truck crash frequently results in multiple fractures. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and facial bones. While many fractures heal with time, some require surgical repair, hardware implantation, and extensive physical therapy. There is no such thing as a “minor” broken bone. Comprehensive care is a must.

Spinal Cord Trauma

The violent force of a truck crash can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or full paralysis. Spinal cord damage may result in loss of movement, chronic pain, or nerve damage. Notably, spinal cord injuries are catastrophic. They can impact a person’s independence, and victims often require wheelchairs, home modifications, and lifelong support. For many families, the emotional and financial burdens are overwhelming.

Internal Organ Damage

Blunt trauma from a truck collision can rupture organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs, often without visible signs. Internal bleeding is life-threatening and requires immediate emergency surgery. These injuries can be complex to detect right away. Any signs of internal trauma require a prompt medical evaluation. Emergency care could be lifesaving.

Amputations (Loss of Limb)

A truck accident may crush limbs beyond repair in the most devastating cases. An emergency surgical amputation may be required to save the life of the victim. It is a life-altering injury that affects mobility, emotional well-being, and self-identity. Amputation often requires prosthetics, retraining, and considerable psychological support. It is a catastrophic injury.

Always See a Doctor After a Tractor-Trailer Crash

Semi-trucks can cause devastating, even catastrophic injuries when a crash happens. You could be far more seriously hurt than you initially realized at the scene of the accident. Many common truck accident injuries, including brain injuries, arise with a delayed onset. The best thing you can do after a crash is get yourself to a doctor as soon as possible.

Consult With Our Florence, SC Semi-Truck Accident Lawyer Today

At D. Craig Brown, LLC, our personal injury law firm fights hard for justice and the maximum compensation for injured victims. We take on even the most serious injury cases. Call or contact us online for a free, no-obligation case review. With an office in Florence, we fight for truck accident victims throughout South Carolina.