New Mexico is a southwestern state known for its beautiful deserts, mountains, and rich cultural history. It has thousands of miles of highways that are used by local drivers and commercial trucks every day. Major routes such as Interstates 10, 25, and 40 serve as important freight corridors across the state. While these trucks help move goods, their large size can create serious safety risks, especially on rural roads where emergency help may take longer to arrive.
The most common injuries after a truck accident include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord and back injuries, broken bones, internal organ injuries, and soft tissue injuries such as whiplash and muscle strains. Because commercial trucks are much larger and heavier than passenger vehicles, these injuries can be severe and may require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and time away from work.
If you have been injured in a truck accident, a New Mexico 18 Wheeler Accident Attorney can help you understand your legal options and how trucking laws may affect your case. Knowing the common injuries that can result from these accidents is an important first step. Below are some of the most common injuries seen in truck accidents.
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries
One of the most severe injuries that can result from a truck accident is a traumatic brain injury. Despite the airbag's ability to absorb impact, the impact still can cause the brain to collide with the inside of the skull upon airbag deployment.
Some symptoms are headaches, dizziness, memory loss, confusion, mood changes, and trouble concentrating. Recovery can take weeks for some, but years of medical care and rehab may be needed for traumatic brain injuries.
2. Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
The spine is subjected to a lot of stress in truck accidents. The victim could sustain herniated discs, broken vertebrae, or injuries to the spinal cord, which impact motion and sensation.Some spinal cord injuries may result in partial or total paralysis. Treatment may include surgery, physical therapy, and ongoing medical care.
3. Broken Bones and Orthopedic Injuries
Crushing injuries are often sustained by the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, or hips in a truck accident. People who get trapped inside an accident vehicle often have multiple injuries.
While bone fractures typically heal, complex fractures may need metal plates, screws, or multiple surgeries. This may take several months to recover and may cause the individual to be unable to work for a period of time.
4. Internal Organ Injuries
Not all serious injuries are evident right after the collision. An impact can be severe without leaving external wounds and may result in damage to the organs, like the liver, spleen, kidneys, or lungs.
Internal bleeding is a medical emergency because there may be a delayed onset of symptoms. Prompt medical evaluation should be provided to anyone who has been involved in a truck accident, regardless of whether he or she feels fine after the accident.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash, torn ligaments, muscle strains, and tendon injuries are among the most common truck accident injuries. While not always as severe as a broken bone injury, these injuries can lead to ongoing pain and restricted mobility.
Soft tissue injuries can make daily tasks like lifting, driving, or even lying down to sleep at night difficult to do. Early treatment can lead to better recovery and minimise long-term complications.
What's Next After a Truck Accident?
- Seek medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Report the crash to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the accident report.
- Gather evidence by taking photographs, collecting witness information, and preserving damaged property.
- Keep records of medical expenses, lost wages, and follow-up appointments.
- Document your recovery by saving prescriptions, therapy records, and communications related to the accident.
Key Takeaways
- One of the most serious effects of truck accidents is traumatic brain injury.
- Spinal cord injuries can result in permanent disability and lengthy rehabilitation.
- Fractures tend to be a surgical matter, with long healing times.
- Injuries to the inside of the body may not be immediately apparent and can be fatal.
- Soft tissue injuries can result in chronic pain and limited mobility.
- New Mexico's comparative negligence law may impact compensation amounts.
- It is important to receive immediate medical attention and documentation following a truck accident.
