Based on information from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, an estimated 494,000 accidents involving semi-trucks and other commercial vehicles took place in America during the last year for which data is available. Studies show that the number of crashes involving 18-wheelers has increased by almost 50 percent over the last decade. Analysts expect that trend to continue in the years to come. 

With that being the case, an ever-growing number of people will likely be seeking compensation after a truck collision moving forward. These accidents can cause particularly serious injuries because semi-trucks are so much larger and heavier than standard passenger vehicles. Since the chances are being in a truck accident are on the rise, and their aftermath can be so significant, it’s important to understand how they may impact you and your family. 

Understanding the Legal Impacts of a Truck Accident

First, consider the potential legal impacts of truck accidents. They can leave victims with mounting medical bills and other expenses. As such, many people who are injured in these collisions ultimately have bill collectors harassing them as they’re waiting for insurance payouts and other compensation to come through. 

Unfortunately, many trucking companies’ coverage providers are reluctant to provide payouts for accident victims. They tend to fight for their own best interests regardless of the repercussions for those who are injured at the hands of their policyholders. In addition to those issues, proving exactly who was at fault in such an accident can be difficult. Responsibility can fall on truck drivers, their employers, mechanics, parts manufacturers, and many other people or companies. 

That, in turn, leaves many people in need of legal assistance after being in a truck accident. An attorney can help prove who was at fault and how much of the blame falls on their shoulders. Attorneys can greatly improve their clients’ chances of getting the compensation they deserve to cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and other financial hurdles that arise following a crash that leaves them with serious injuries. 

Exploring the Emotional Impacts of a Truck Accident

Now, it’s time to delve deeper into the possible emotional toll truck accidents can take on victims and their families. The aftermath of these crashes can affect victims on a much deeper level than physical pain, financial struggles, and legal implications. Many people experience anxiety, depression, or both after being in even a minor accident. That’s only the beginning. 

Dealing with the financial repercussions of a truck accident tends to cause added stress, and having to battle insurance companies and other parties to get compensation for your injuries and losses only heightens those effects. If you lose a loved one in a trucking accident, the emotional impact is even more serious. You lose the love, joy, and companionship that person could’ve brought you for years to come. 

In many cases, people who are injured in trucking accidents are unable to return to the jobs they had beforehand or unable to return to work altogether. They may also be unable to participate in other activities that once brought them joy. All of that further detracts from their lives and increases the emotional toll of truck accidents. 

Dealing With the Aftermath of a Truck Accident

Truck accidents can have serious impacts on victims and their families. Those range from physical trauma and financial hardships to legal issues and emotional repercussions. If you’ve been in a collision with a semi-truck, you may be entitled to compensation for all those effects. Having an attorney on your side can lessen the impacts to an extent and improve your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have been involved in a truck accident, consult a qualified attorney to discuss your specific situation and legal rights.

Published by Jeremy S.