Truck Accident Injuries Can Be More Serious Than They Initially Appear
When it comes to truck accidents, the severity of injuries isn’t always immediately clear. Sometimes, symptoms emerge days after the crash, which can lead to tragic consequences. This was the heartbreaking experience of a 46-year-old man from New York City.
On December 28, 2011, he was driving his 2002 Chevrolet Camaro when a truck from Brooklyn Bottling Corporation rear-ended him. Although the car only had minor damage, and the driver initially thought he was unharmed, he did hit his head during the collision.
In the days following the accident, his wife noticed changes in his behavior—he was sleeping more than usual, complaining of headaches, and had a stiff neck. A few days later, things worsened when he experienced numbness in his left arm and leg, prompting him to seek medical attention.
Doctors discovered he had suffered hemiparesis, a weakness on one side of the body, caused by a brain bleed in the right parietal lobe. He was transferred to a rehabilitation hospital on January 6, 2012, but sadly passed away three days later. The medical examiner confirmed the death was due to the accident, specifically referencing the rear-end collision.
Following this tragedy, a lawsuit was filed in Queens Supreme Court in 2013 against the bottling company, its parent company, and the truck driver. Although the defense argued that the man’s stroke was unrelated and coincidental, the court ruled in February 2015 that the company was legally responsible for the crash. The case was settled for $10 million.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident, it’s crucial to understand that injuries may not always show up right away. Consulting with experienced truck accident attorneys can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. The Indianapolis Truck Accident Attorneys at Wilson Kehoe Winingham offer free case evaluations and can be reached at 317.920.6400 or through their online contact form.