closeup of a man in a wheelchairSemi-trucks are among the biggest and most powerful vehicles plying Missouri roadways. While most truck drivers are consummate professionals, some make mistakes. Unfortunately, the size of a fully-loaded semi-truck means that any act of negligence—no matter how brief—has the potential to change and devastate a person’s life.

Commercial vehicle accidents are among the leading causes of spinal cord injuries in the United States. Even a minor spinal cord injury can leave a person jobless, immobile, or otherwise unable to live the life they led before.

How Truck Crashes Cause Spinal Cord Injuries

The sheer size, weight, and power of a semi-truck mean an accident involving one has the potential to be far more damaging than a crash with a private vehicle. Serious injuries—from broken bones to fractures, organ damage, and traumatic brain injuries—are not uncommon.

Spinal injuries happen when a person suffers a traumatic blow to their spinal cord. The impact can compress, dislocate, or fracture vertebrae.

While some spinal injuries are not serious and can be easily treated, others may leave an individual permanently disabled.

Living With a Spinal Injury

Every injury is different. However, a spinal injury has the potential to cause:

  • Neurological disorders
  • Digestive problems
  • Chronic pain
  • Respiratory issues
  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Loss of muscle control or function
  • Paralysis, to varying degrees

Even if a spinal injury is minor and treatable, an accident victim may still require months of intensive physical rehabilitation to recover. If the injury is more serious, they may need help performing simple, day-to-day tasks and require a dedicated aide or placement in an assisted living facility.

Megan D. Andrews
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