When two massive vehicles collide, the consequences can be catastrophic. In fact, traffic crashes involved 9.1 million vehicles in 2020 alone.
One of the most devastating outcomes of such collisions is severe burns. There are plenty of factors that contribute to severe burns when vehicles and trucks collide, and the life-altering implications they can have.
Fuel burns
Trucks typically carry substantial amounts of fuel, making them potential fire hazards in a collision. The impact can rupture fuel tanks, causing gasoline or diesel to spill and ignite.
The resulting fire can quickly escalate, engulfing the vehicles and occupants in flames. The extreme heat generated can lead to severe burns, damaging the skin and underlying tissues.
Chemical burns
Truck collisions can involve hazardous materials such as chemicals or flammable substances. When these materials spill and mix due to the collision, a chemical reaction can occur, intensifying the blaze. Exposure to these chemicals can cause severe chemical burns, which are often more complex to treat than traditional thermal burns.
Thermal burns
The intense heat produced by a truck collision fire can lead to thermal burns. These burns occur when the skin and underlying tissues face extreme temperatures. The severity of thermal burns depends on factors like the duration of exposure and the proximity to the flames. Even a brief encounter with intense heat can result in debilitating burns.
Inhalation burns
In a truck collision fire, the danger is not limited to external burns. The inhalation of toxic smoke and gases can cause severe damage to the respiratory system. Inhalation injuries can lead to conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome and pneumonia, adding a layer of complexity to the already critical situation.
The stress and worry you feel may leave you wondering what steps you should take next. It is important to stay informed and prepared for the challenges that may arise in a truck crash’s aftermath.