The Most Common Injuries for Truck Drivers

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Every day, trucking companies across the United States transport millions of tons of freight from here to there. Unfortunately, these everyday jobs come with their fair share of risks. Truck accident rates are higher than in typical occupations in every age group; however, injuries are more likely to occur on days when drivers cover longer distances or experience delays.

Based on data from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, the most common injuries incurred by truck drivers are:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI)
Lower Extremity Injuries (LEI)
Soft Tissue Injuries (STI)
Fatigue/Depression Disorders (FDD)

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Truck drivers who have experienced a traumatic brain injury may suffer from various symptoms, such as difficulty remembering names, slower problem-solving skills, or the inability to think logically and clearly.

This injury can often be avoided by wearing a seat belt, particularly during sudden stops. Some drivers may even consider wearing padding on either side of their heads to reduce the risk of sustaining a TBI.

Truckers with job-related brain injuries may also be entitled to Social Security disability benefits if their injury interferes with their ability to do “substantial gainful activity.” An experienced personal injury attorney can help you and your loved one receive the medical treatment and financial security you need after suffering an injury that has left you unable to work.

Spinal Cord Injuries

One of the most serious injuries that can occur in truck accidents is damage to your spine or spinal cord. A spinal cord injury can lead to permanent partial or total paralysis of parts of your body. Truck drivers who experience these injuries may need to change careers because the injuries can severely limit their ability to continue working as truck drivers.

No one is immune from the risks associated with job injuries, particularly truck drivers, who incur more injuries than members of other occupational groups. If you or a loved one have been injured due to a truck accident, you may be entitled to Social Security disability benefits.

To qualify, you must prove that the injury has interfered with your ability to do “substantial gainful activity.” Bader Scott trucking accident attorneys can help you receive medical treatment and the financial security you need.

Lower Extremity Injuries

After traumatic injuries have occurred, it is common for truck drivers to sustain lower extremity injuries as they attempt to escape their vehicle while it’s still moving or is on fire. These injuries include crushed feet, bruised legs, ankles, and broken bones in the lower extremities.

To protect themselves from these devastating injuries, individuals should wear sturdy shoes with non-slip soles that extend beyond the toes when walking on the side of the truck.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries occur when muscles or other soft tissues in the body are damaged, typically due to truck accidents. These injuries can be particularly debilitating in your neck, back, or spine. If you have sustained a soft tissue injury, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important because these injuries can become more serious if left untreated.

Fatigue/Depression Disorders

Driving is a physically and mentally demanding job. Studies have shown that truck drivers who spend long hours behind the wheel may experience chronic fatigue, which can lead to depression later on in their careers. Some studies show drivers between 35 and 55 are more likely to suffer from depression.

To reduce the likelihood of suffering from one of the above injuries, it is recommended that truck drivers take breaks every three to four hours and never drive for more than 11 hours a day. Additionally, truck drivers should avoid driving in bad weather conditions.

Seek Legal Representation

If you or someone you know has been injured in a truck accident, contact a truck accident attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you identify the at-fault party and file for compensation.

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