When it comes to highway safety, 18-wheelers are among the most imposing vehicles on the road. Unfortunately, accidents involving these large commercial trucks can lead to devastating consequences for drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians. So, what are the common catastrophic injuries from 18-wheeler accidents in Louisiana?
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Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic brain injuries happen when a sudden impact causes the brain to move violently inside the skull. In an 18-wheeler accident, the sheer force of the collision can throw victims into the windshield, dashboard, or even into the seats behind them, leading to anything from a mild concussion to severe brain trauma.
These injuries can have far-reaching consequences, including memory loss, cognitive difficulties, mood or personality changes, and permanent disability. In many cases, a serious TBI requires long-term medical care, ongoing rehabilitation, and sometimes lifelong support with everyday tasks.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are some of the most devastating outcomes of an 18-wheeler accident. When the spinal cord is damaged, the effects can range from reduced mobility to partial or even complete paralysis, depending on where the injury is located and how severe it is.
Many victims may require wheelchairs, need mobility devices, and months or years of physical therapy to regain function. Because long-term care, home modifications, and adaptive equipment can be incredibly expensive, pursuing a catastrophic injury claim often becomes the only way to secure the financial support you need.
Internal Organ Damage
High-impact crashes with an 18-wheeler can also cause serious internal injuries, affecting organs like the liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs. Internal bleeding or organ rupture can become life-threatening within minutes if it isn’t treated right away. Many victims need emergency surgery, followed by ongoing monitoring and long-term medical care.
Because these injuries are often complicated and can lead to chronic health issues, having an experienced Louisiana catastrophic injury attorney guide the claim process becomes especially important.
Burns and Severe Lacerations
Fires or explosions after an 18-wheeler accident can cause severe burn injuries, and broken glass or metal debris can leave victims with deep, painful lacerations. These types of injuries often require reconstructive surgeries, skin grafts, and months of rehabilitation.
Beyond the physical damage, burn victims often struggle with long-lasting emotional trauma and anxiety. All of these challenges highlight just how important strong legal representation is when pursuing a catastrophic injury claim.
Multiple Fractures and Crush Injuries
Victims of large truck accidents often experience multiple fractures, and crush injuries happen when parts of the body are trapped under heavy weight, causing serious damage to muscles, bones, and nerves.
Recovery from these injuries is typically long and challenging, often involving several surgeries, extensive rehabilitation, and in some cases, amputation.
Why You Should Hire a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Trucks transport 72.4% of all American freight, and in 2022, it’s estimated that there were over 536,000 truck accidents that reported over 160,600 injuries.
After a serious truck accident, a catastrophic injury lawyer becomes an invaluable ally, guiding you through the complicated aftermath while protecting your rights every step of the way. These cases are far more complicated than typical personal injury claims. When you hire a catastrophic injury lawyer, you can rest easy knowing they’re taking care of the legal challenges. This includes:
- Investigating the accident by gathering evidence such as black box data, driver logs, maintenance records, and witness statements
- Collaborating with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and life-care planners to assess the long-term impact of your injuries
- Ensuring all medical expenses, rehabilitation needs, lost income, and future costs are fully accounted for in your claim
- Negotiating with insurance companies and trucking firms to pursue the full compensation you are entitled to
- Taking your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached, managing filings, deadlines, testimony, and courtroom strategy
The ultimate goal of a catastrophic injury lawyer is to protect your financial future, make sure your story is heard, and help you secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
FAQs
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Catastrophic Injury Claim?
The length of time it takes to settle a catastrophic injury claim varies depending on how complicated the case is, how severe the injuries are, and how willing the insurance companies are to negotiate. Minor claims could settle relatively quickly, while complicated, catastrophic injury claims could take an extensive period of time. Ongoing medical treatment and assessments often extend the timeline.
Are Passengers Covered Differently Than Drivers in Accidents with Trucks?
No, passengers aren’t covered differently from drivers in accidents with trucks. This is because passengers are generally entitled to compensation under the driver’s or the trucking company’s insurance. Their injuries are treated the same as the driver’s injuries. However, liability can vary depending on who caused the accident. Hiring a Louisiana catastrophic injury attorney ensures passengers understand all their rights.
Can Family Members File a Claim for a Victim Who Can’t?
Yes, in situations where the victim is incapacitated or unable to pursue legal action, close family members could have the right to file a claim on their behalf. This often includes parents, spouses, or legal guardians. An experienced attorney can help navigate the legal requirements to make sure the victim’s rights and needs are fully represented. Acting quickly is important to meet filing deadlines and to protect the claim.
What Types of Evidence Are Most Important In 18-Wheeler Accident Cases?
The types of evidence that are most important in 18-wheeler accident cases include accident reports, witness statements, photographs of the scene, vehicle inspection reports, and medical records. Black box data from the trucks can also be important in determining speed, braking, and driver behavior. Documenting injuries over time, including ongoing medical treatment and rehabilitation, can strengthen a catastrophic injury claim.
Take Action with a Dedicated Legal Advocate on Your Side
At Sanchez Burke, LLC, our team stands up to insurance companies and trucking firms to make sure your rights are fully protected. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take, and we approach every case with compassion, strategy, and relentless determination.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
