North Carolina roads may prove frustrating, especially during your commute to and from work. Traffic woes plague well-populated areas as throngs of motorists try and make their way from one place to another around the clock.
Accidents happen, but those that occur between a motor vehicle and a semi-truck can wind up as the most severe. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, drivers may end up with catastrophic injuries while some less fortunate do not live. Take a look at some of the injuries that often occur when in an accident with a big rig.
Fractures
The most common injuries sustained in a crash with a truck include sprains and fractures. The steering column can crush legs, and the dashboard can trap arms. In situations where fractures occur, getting emergency care is the first step on the road to recovery. Some breaks may require surgical repair and physical therapy. Even so, you may wind up losing some motor function.
Traumatic brain injury
A head injury is one of the most severe outcomes of an accident. Losing consciousness is the most serious sign that the head collided with something inside the vehicle during the crash. Traumatic brain injury may result in a loss of cognitive functions such as speech and memory. Physical effects of a brain injury may include paralysis of varying degrees.
Internal injuries
Other parts of your body can suffer damage as a result of a crash. You may experience internal bleeding that a health care provider does not diagnose immediately after the accident. It is vital that you recognize the symptoms, which include the following:
- Weakness
- Bruising that is black
- Sudden crippling headache
- Loss of feeling or tingling in the feet and hands
If you walk away from a crash one day and start experiencing these symptoms, get to the hospital immediately for intervention. Allowing an internal bleed to continue may cause a catastrophic medical event such as stroke.
Semi-trucks provide an invaluable service as they get goods across the country to consumers. However, getting into an accident with one may far-reaching consequences. Get the medical help you require to give you the best chance of recovery.