Truck accidents can cause a variety of serious injuries, and one of the most common injuries is brain damage, which often ranges from mild to severe. A brain injury may drastically impair your quality of life. In some cases, these injuries can be fatal.
If you or a loved one sustained a head or brain injury in a collision with a commercial big rig, the San Antonio truck accident lawyers at The Herrera Law Firm can help you demand justice and accountability. Our attorneys fight to hold negligent truck drivers and trucking companies accountable when their actions lead to someone's injury or death. We can guide you through the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Are truck accidents more likely to cause head injuries?
The sheer size and weight of large trucks mean that collisions involve greater force than smaller passenger vehicles. This increases the likelihood of sustaining a head injury and potential long-term brain damage. Additionally, the cargo carried by commercial trucks can become another risk. Heavy or hazardous materials being hauled by 18-wheelers can become dangerous projectiles or obstacles when they spill onto the roadway.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) often result from a forceful impact to the head. This can potentially lead to internal bleeding or skull fractures. Severe TBIs can cause serious long-term complications such as:
- Chronic pain
- Speech difficulties
- Challenges in carrying out daily personal care
- Limb weakness
- Permanent or long-term brain damage
- In extreme cases, coma, paralysis, or even death.
Types of TBIs that can lead to brain damage after a truck accident
Common truck accident TBIs that lead to brain damage include:
- Concussion: This is the most common and mildest form of TBI. It can cause temporary cognitive impairments such as difficulties with concentration, memory, balance, and coordination.
- Contusion: This is a bruise on the brain that causes bleeding and swelling in the brain tissue. A severe contusion often requires surgical removal.
- Diffuse axonal injury: This is caused by strong rotation or shaking of the head. It can lead to the tearing of brain structures and is one of the more severe TBIs.
- Penetrating injury: This occurs when an object breaks through the skull and enters the brain tissue. It can cause severe damage to specific brain areas and significant neurological problems. In some cases, penetrating injuries are life-threatening.
- Coup-contrecoup injury: This occurs when the force of impact is strong enough to cause damage at the site of impact (coup) and on the opposite side of the brain (contrecoup).
- Second impact syndrome: This serious condition happens when a person sustains a second TBI before the first one has properly healed. This can lead to rapid and severe brain swelling with potentially fatal outcomes.
Diagnosis and treatment for truck accident TBIs
When diagnosing a brain injury, a doctor may conduct a clinical examination and review neurological functions based on the Glasgow Coma Scale. They will likely also conduct imaging tests (e.g., CT scan and/or MRI) to look for abnormalities in the brain. They may also conduct a neuropsychological assessment to evaluate the impact of a TBI on cognitive functions.
Treatment for a TBI may include:
- Rest and gradual return to normal activities.
- Medications for headaches and nausea.
- Medications to manage intracranial pressure, prevent seizures, and alleviate pain.
- Surgery in severe cases.
- Long-term rehabilitation such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech and language therapy.
Seeking legal help after a brain injury
The San Antonio truck accident lawyers at The Herrera Law Firm understand the impact brain damage can have on someone's life. We know how challenging pursuing compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses can be while you're recovering. That's why we're committed to protecting your rights and fighting for the maximum financial compensation you deserve.
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us online or call our San Antonio office for a free consultation. We operate on a contingency fee basis, so you don't have to pay any upfront or hidden fees out-of-pocket.
