Possible Truck Accident Injuries
When a heavy truck or tractor-trailer collides with a pedestrian or another vehicle, injuries are often severe and come with lifelong repercussions. Common truck accident injuries include:
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Injuries to the hands, wrists, legs, knees, and feet
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
- Internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding
- Cuts, bruises, and broken bones
- Whiplash and other soft-tissue injuries
Recoverable Damages in a Truck Accident Claim or Lawsuit
With Virginia’s at-fault system for car accidents, victims have up to two years to seek financial losses from at-fault parties. They may receive compensation for economic and non-economic damages such as:
- Hospital and other medical bills
- Ongoing costs for surgery, therapy, and rehabilitation
- Current lost wages
- Loss in future earning potential
- Property damage to their vehicle
- Non-economic impacts like emotional distress and loss of quality of life
- Punitive damages
What to Do if a Truck Merges Into Your Vehicle
The immediate aftermath of a truck merging accident can be traumatic. Try to remain calm in the situation and follow these basic steps:
- Move your vehicle to a safe location if it’s safe to do so.
- Call 911 right away for emergency assistance.
- Document evidence from the truck crash scene.
- Exchange information with the truck driver.
- Collect contact information from eyewitnesses.
- Seek emergency medical treatment for injuries.
- Hire a skilled Virginia truck accident lawyer like the professionals at The Mottley Law Firm.
Resolving commercial truck accidents is often more complex, as it might not just be the operator who can be held liable. Other at-fault parties may include the truck owner, a fleet company, or a cargo loading firm. Choosing experienced legal counsel is crucial during this difficult time to retain vital evidence such as black box data, employment records, and truck maintenance information.