Common Truck Accident Injuries
Truck accidents are often far more devastating than typical car crashes due to the sheer size and weight of commercial trucks. These collisions can cause life-altering injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
Injuries resulting from truck accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury can occur when a victim’s head strikes a hard surface or when the brain is jolted inside the skull due to the crash’s impact. TBIs can range from mild concussions to more severe brain damage that may lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, or permanent disability.
- Spinal cord injuries. The force of a truck collision can cause significant damage to the spinal cord, which may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Victims may lose mobility or sensation in parts of their body, affecting their independence and quality of life.
- Broken bones and fractures. Due to the intense force involved in truck accidents, victims often suffer broken bones and fractures. These injuries can affect many body parts, including arms, legs, ribs, or even the skull. Severe fractures may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Internal injuries. Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, are common in high-impact truck accidents. Often, these injuries are not immediately visible but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries. Whiplash occurs when the neck is suddenly jolted forward and backward, leading to strain in the neck muscles and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and tears, are also common in truck accidents, particularly in the neck, back, and shoulders.
- Burns and lacerations. Truck accidents can cause burn injuries, especially in cases where fuel leaks lead to fires. Victims may also suffer lacerations from broken glass or debris, resulting in deep cuts that can require stitches or reconstructive surgery.
see how we've made a difference
If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$100,000 $100k Policy Limit Settlement for Motor Vehicle Accident With Back Injury
Policy Limit Settlement for Motor Vehicle Accident With Back Injury
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$150,000 $150k for Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
For Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
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$525,000 $525k Result for Man Injured by Dump Truck
Result for Man Injured by Dump Truck
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$110,000 $110k for Car Accident Client With Back and Neck Pain
For Car Accident Client With Back and Neck Pain
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$650,000 $650k for Client Who Suffered a Back Injury in a Rear-End Collision
For Client Who Suffered a Back Injury in a Rear-End Collision
Federal Trucking Regulations
More than a decade ago, regulations about the number of hours that truck drivers can work were updated. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) made these changes to reduce driver fatigue and prevent accidents.
The schedule requires truck drivers to take a 30-minute break within the first eight hours of driving. On top of the added breaks, a driver's maximum hours per week was cut down from 82 to 70 hours.
The DOT also added a requirement that when drivers restart their week, meaning move into the next 70-hour period of work, they have to take a 34-hour break once during the week. This regulation is an effort to ensure that they receive a full day and night off and a full night of sleep. The dangers of truck crashes continually lead to changes by the government to help avoid accidents.
David Van Sant, an Atlanta truck accident lawyer from our firm, worked for years defending tractor-trailer companies and motor carriers involved in accidents. Now, we leverage this insight for our clients.
When you retain one of our commercial trucking attorneys, you can be confident you have a strong advocate. We seek just compensation in your case to help you regain your life and property as much as possible.
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Proven Record of Results
Van Sant Law has recovered millions in compensation for our clients’ benefit.
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Years of Experience
Van Sant Law is committed to professional and experienced personal injury representation.
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Awards and Accolades
10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo™, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, National Trial Lawyers Association Top 40 Under 40
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Strategic and Aggressive
Our legal team includes former defense attorneys for large insurers who know how they settle injury claims.
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Personal and Compassionate
Our firm works hard to ensure that your needs are taken care of during your recovery time. We work for you so you can get your life back.
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No Fee Guarantee
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. Meaning there are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you!
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"They were diligent, timely, and very informative during the whole process."
Van Sant Law worked on my personal injury case, and they have gone above and beyond in representing me as a client. They gave multiple updates throughout the course of the case. I would highly recommend Van Sant to friends and family, and I would choose them as my personal injury attorney if I were to have a personal injury claim. Thank you, Van Sant Law!
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"Very knowledgeable, straight forward and communicated with me every step of the way."
I used Van Sant Law for my auto accident claim and I'm so glad I did! Parker, my attorney, was especially great. He really eased my pain and got me the best settlement possible. I highly recommend Van Sant Law. They did right by me and I'm very happy with their level of service.
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"We were thrilled with the support from Van Sant."
The team really helped us as we navigated the claims process after our oldest child had his car totaled by a drunk driver! They were incredibly professional and helped us through every step of the process! Would absolutely recommend their services! Thank you!
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"Let the Van Sant team handle your case! You're in good hands."
Attorney David M. Van Sant is one of the best injury trial attorneys here in the Atlanta area. They are precise and unique in their approach. When I had my car accident, my whole world was turned upside down, but with Attorney Van Sant and his team of professionals dedication and quality of service, my life is back on track.
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I had the best experience with VanSant Law. I am forever grateful for Van Sant Law and will use them in the future.
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"I highly recommend him as a personal injury attorney."
My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
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Our firm is dedicated and committed to providing you with the best legal services possible, from your education on the issues to fighting for positive results for your case. Through a free, initial consultation, we will make sure you understand the best way to approach your case, and we’ll review any relevant documents that you provide us with to make sure we have a full, detailed picture of your situation.
Gathering Evidence for Your Truck Accident Case
Injuries such as broken bones, burn injuries, spinal cord injuries, and other catastrophic injuries can all result from a violent collision. You may have medical bills, legal battles, an inability to earn wages, and emotional turmoil.
Unfortunately, insurance companies are frequently unwilling to pay proper compensation for injuries and employ various tactics to delay or drastically reduce payments. Insurance and trucking companies will not give you a friendly hand regarding damages due to negligence.
The outcome of a truck accident claim relies heavily on the strength of the evidence presented. Clear, convincing evidence helps prove who was at fault. It enables you to pursue fair compensation for your injuries, property damage, and other losses.
Without sufficient evidence, insurance companies may dispute your claim, reduce your settlement offer, or deny compensation altogether. Thus, gathering as much relevant information as possible to support your claim is critical.
Several types of evidence are necessary to document a truck accident case. Each piece of information plays a role in demonstrating fault and calculating the appropriate compensation for your injuries and damages.
Evidence can include the following:
- Police reports
- Eyewitness statements
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Truck driver’s logs and maintenance records
- Dates from the truck’s black box or electronic logging device
- Medical records documenting injuries
Gathering the proper evidence in a truck accident case requires a comprehensive approach and attention to detail. Thus, hiring a knowledgeable lawyer to fight on your side is essential.
FAQ
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What Are Some of the Main Causes of Truck Accidents?
A few major causes of commercial truck accidents include improper maintenance and cargo overloading. Unfortunately, the pressure on drivers to deliver their loads as quickly as possible leads to driver error and negligence. Vehicle and driver failure make commercial trucks some of the most dangerous vehicles on our roadways.
Specific causes include the following:
- Speeding and other traffic violations
- Improper training and practice
- Road construction
- Sudden decelerations and stops
- Driver fatigue
- Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, including prescription drug use
- Unfamiliarity with the roadways
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If I Have Been Involved in a Truck Accident, What Type of Evidence Can Strengthen My Case?
Certain types of evidence can strengthen your case and must be preserved. Photographs of the accident scene — from all angles — are critical. Witness statements, police reports, and medical records are crucial in establishing liability and damages. Documentation regarding the truck driver, employment status, and the truck itself are also necessary.
These types of documents include:
- The truck driver’s personnel record, including documentation regarding their status as an employee or independent contractor
- The truck driver’s logbook
- The data collected from the truck’s onboard recording device
- The trucker’s driving history, including records of any violations
- Any safety violations committed by the owner or manufacturer of the truck, cab, or other vehicle components
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If I’m Injured in a Truck Accident, Who Can I Potentially Bring a Lawsuit Against?
When trucking accidents occur and people are injured, several parties may be partially or wholly liable for the collision.
Several variables must be evaluated to determine liability, such as:
- Whether the truck, trailer, cab, or any of their components were defective or improperly maintained
- The employment status of the truck driver
Many questions must be asked to determine liability:
- Was the driver an independent contractor, employee, and/or vehicle owner?
- Did the driver lease the truck and/or the trailer?
- What company owned or leased the vehicle?
- Who ordered that the freight be shipped?
- Who owned the cargo?
- What companies manufactured and serviced the truck, cab, trailer, and every little piece that makes up those components?
Our big rig accident lawyers at Van Sant Law have significant experience representing clients throughout Georgia and can evaluate the evidence to determine which parties can be responsible for your injuries.
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When and Why Should I Hire a Law Firm to Represent Me in My Truck Accident Case?
Every case is unique. Our attorneys can help you understand the steps of filing a claim and the steps you must take following the truck accident. Many local, state, and federal rules, regulations, and laws may have been violated, and our experienced Atlanta truck accident lawyers know how to apply them to your case.
Additionally, the statute of limitations for a truck accident case requires that parties filing a truck wreck injury lawsuit must do so within two years of the collision date. However, exceptions exist, and you should discuss your case with a truck accident lawyer who knows what deadlines apply. Consult with a lawyer near you as soon as possible.
In addition to understanding the legal framework and procedures for bringing truck accident claims, our experienced attorneys are ready, willing, and able to battle with the team of lawyers and insurance representatives who represent the truck driver, the trucking company (or companies), and the insurance companies. We have years of experience taking legal fights to the trucking industry and pursuing favorable settlements and verdicts for clients.
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What Is Involved in a Truck Accident Investigation?
Truck accidents are often complex, involving multiple parties, stringent regulations, and a thorough investigation to determine liability. Unlike standard car accidents, truck accident cases require in-depth investigations to uncover the full scope of the incident and hold the responsible parties accountable.
Truck accident investigations involve detailed scrutiny of the accident, the truck driver, and the trucking company. Gathering this information helps establish liability and holds responsible parties accountable.
Critical components of a truck accident investigation include:
- Examining the truck driver’s qualifications. Your truck accident attorney can contact the truck driver’s company to obtain the Driver Qualification File (DQF), which is required documentation by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
- Getting witness statements. Eyewitnesses who saw the accident can provide valuable testimony about how the crash unfolded. These statements offer perspectives that can either corroborate or challenge the accounts of the involved parties. Securing witness contact information at the scene and obtaining their statements soon after the accident ensures that their recollections are accurate and detailed.
- Obtaining and reviewing the police report. Police reports provide an official accident record, including vital details such as the time, location, and parties involved. The report also includes the responding officer’s initial assessment of the cause of the accident, traffic violations, and whether any citations or arrests were made. Reviewing this report is essential to verify facts and identify potential areas of negligence.
- Examining the accident scene and damage. A thorough examination involves looking at the road conditions, traffic signals, weather, vehicle damage, and skid marks to understand how the accident occurred. Your lawyer may also review photos, videos, and other physical evidence to piece together the events leading up to the collision.
- Reviewing data from the truck’s onboard records. Most commercial trucks have black boxes and electronic logging devices (ELDs) that record critical data, such as speed, braking patterns, and hours driven. This information can be invaluable in determining what happened in the moments leading up to the accident and whether the driver complied with regulations regarding rest periods and driving hours.
Truck accident investigations often require third-party professionals' insights to understand the case's nuances. Your attorney may collaborate with accident reconstruction experts, forensic specialists, and other industry professionals to uncover critical details that may not be immediately obvious. They will also review relevant reports from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
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