Truck accidents always have the potential to cause serious injuries, even in unexpected places. While lung and lung-related injuries are not as common as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or burns, they can still have devastating consequences.

Truck Accidents and Lung Injuries

x-ray of collapsed lungA fully loaded semi-truck can weigh up to 80,000 pounds. When an 18-wheeler collides with a personal automobile, the results are often catastrophic. They might cause:

  • A punctured lung. A semi-truck accident could cause a punctured lung if debris hits and penetrates the chest. In some severe crashes, the force generated by the crash could break the chest or rib bones, which may, in turn, puncture the lungs.
  • A collapsed lung. A punctured or otherwise severely traumatized lung could collapse, leading to a dire medical emergency. If left untreated, a collapsed lung can cause extreme respiratory distress, suffocation, and death.
  • Respiratory damage. Automobiles run off more than just fuel. In the aftermath of a serious collision, gasoline, coolants, and other hazardous materials could spill onto the ground, catching fire and emitting toxic fumes. If inhaled, these fumes can burn and scar the lungs, causing permanent damage.

Securing a Settlement After a Truck Accident Lung Injury

If you have suffered a lung injury in a semi-truck accident that was not your fault, you could recover your financial losses by initiating an insurance claim or filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, truck accidents should never be treated like car accidents. In fact, your legal case could be contingent on who you file a claim against. While many people are quick to blame the semi-truck driver, another individual or entity’s misconduct could have contributed to the accident. You might have to name multiple defendants, including but not limited to:

  • The semi-truck driver
  • The trucking company
  • A cargo shipper or loader
  • The truck manufacturer
  • An automotive parts maker

Recovering Damages After an 18-Wheeler Accident

Your Missouri truck accident attorney could help you value your claim by assessing your damages. Your damages could include:

  • Your past, present, and future medical expenses
  • Physical rehabilitation
  • Specialist appointments
  • Prescription medication co-pays
  • Lost income from work
  • Emotional pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment
  • Disfigurement
  • Disability

Missouri does not currently cap the damages you could receive after suffering a serious lung injury in a semi-truck crash. This means you could secure as much compensation as you need to clear your hospital bills and pay for any anticipated expenses. However, Missouri does have a strict statute of limitations that could prevent you from recovering anything if you wait too long to take action.

 

Megan D. Andrews
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