The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration collects data about large truck and bus crashes to help keep track of common causes of collisions and to see how those collisions may be prevented in the future. The last year for which data is available, 2019, details some important facts about trucking crashes.
In 2019, there were 5,237 fatal large truck and bus accidents. Another 127,000 crashes involved injuries that year. It has also been found that many of the fatal crashes involving larger trucks happen in rural areas or on interstates.
These crashes often lead to serious injuries and fatalities due to the size discrepancy between larger trucks and small passenger vehicles.
What are some of the injuries often seen in trucking accidents?
Due to the force of these collisions, it’s common to see injuries such as:
- Crushing injuries, like crushed bones
- Amputation
- Spinal cord and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Since large trucks may be carrying hazardous materials or are more likely to cause damage to the passenger vehicle’s engine and moving parts, it’s also common to see burn injuries in these crashes. These may be a result of chemical exposure, exposure to hot metals or vehicle fires.
What should you do if you’re hurt or lose a loved one in a truck accident?
Victims of truck accidents have the option to pursue personal injury lawsuits. Families of those who have passed away may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim.
To make a claim after you’re injured, you should keep track of your medical expenses, travel costs for medical appointments and other financial losses. Keep photos and documents about your injuries, and avoid talking to the other party’s insurance provider. Anyone who reaches out to you about the crash should have their call forwarded to your attorney’s office, so they can handle the negotiations to help you get the most out of your claim.
Your injuries may be serious, so it’s important not to settle too soon. Focus on your recovery, and remember that you may be able to hold a driver accountable if their actions led to you suffering serious injuries.