When two commercial trucks collide on Los Banos highways, the resulting devastation often exceeds that of typical vehicle accidents. These massive vehicles, sometimes weighing up to 80,000 pounds when fully loaded, create catastrophic force upon impact. For truck drivers and any other motorists caught in these collisions, the injuries sustained can be life-altering. Understanding the common injuries in Los Banos truck v truck accidents is essential for anyone traveling through California’s Central Valley, particularly along Highway 152 and Interstate 5, where commercial truck traffic is heavy. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an accident, knowing what to expect medically and legally can help you protect your rights and pursue appropriate compensation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries and Head Trauma
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) represent some of the most serious consequences of truck v truck collisions. The violent impact can cause drivers to strike their heads against the steering wheel, windshield, or side windows, even when wearing seatbelts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage resulting in permanent cognitive impairment.
Symptoms may not appear immediately after the accident. Truck drivers might experience headaches, confusion, memory problems, mood changes, or difficulty concentrating days or even weeks later. More severe TBIs can result in loss of consciousness, seizures, and lasting neurological deficits that prevent individuals from returning to their profession.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The tremendous force generated when two commercial trucks collide frequently causes spinal cord injuries. These injuries occur when the impact damages the delicate nerves within the spinal column, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Victims may face paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body) or quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs), depending on where the spinal cord damage occurs.
Even less severe spinal injuries, such as herniated discs or compression fractures, can cause chronic pain and limit a truck driver’s ability to work. Many spinal injuries require extensive surgery, lengthy rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care, creating substantial financial burdens for victims and their families.
Internal Organ Damage and Internal Bleeding
The blunt force trauma characteristic of truck v truck accidents often causes internal injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Internal bleeding, ruptured organs, and damaged blood vessels can be life-threatening if not quickly diagnosed and treated. The liver, spleen, kidneys, and lungs are particularly vulnerable in high-impact collisions.
Truck drivers should seek immediate medical evaluation after any collision, even if they feel fine initially. Internal injuries can worsen rapidly, and delayed treatment significantly increases the risk of complications or death.
Broken Bones and Crush Injuries
Fractures are extremely common in truck v truck accidents, ranging from simple breaks to complex compound fractures requiring surgical intervention. The impact can break ribs, legs, arms, hips, and facial bones. When truck cabs collapse or crumple during collision, drivers may suffer crush injuries that damage muscles, nerves, and blood vessels alongside bone fractures.
These injuries often require multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods. For professional truck drivers, the inability to sit for long periods or operate vehicle controls can mean the end of their career.
Burn Injuries
When commercial trucks collide, fuel tanks may rupture and ignite, causing fires or explosions. Burn injuries from truck accidents can be devastating, requiring skin grafts, reconstructive surgery, and years of treatment. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, large truck fires pose significant risks to all involved parties.
Even moderate burns can leave permanent scarring and require extensive rehabilitation. Severe burns may necessitate months in specialized burn units and result in permanent disfigurement and disability.
Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical injuries, truck v truck accident survivors often experience significant psychological trauma. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common among those who have witnessed or experienced catastrophic collisions. These mental health challenges can be as debilitating as physical injuries, affecting a person’s ability to return to driving or maintain normal life activities.
How Nunes Law, Inc. Handles Los Banos Truck Accident Cases
At Nunes Law, Inc., attorney Frank Nunes brings more than three decades of experience to truck accident cases throughout California’s Central Valley, including Los Banos. His background working as in-house counsel for a nationally known insurance company provides unique insight into how trucking companies and their insurers approach these complex claims.
Our firm understands that truck v truck accidents involve multiple layers of liability, from driver negligence to trucking company policies, maintenance failures, and federal regulation violations. The firm’s approach includes thorough investigation of all potentially liable parties to ensure clients receive maximum compensation for their injuries.
Serving Los Banos and surrounding communities in Merced County, Nunes Law, Inc. handles various truck accident claims, including those involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death. The firm’s commitment to honest, direct counsel means clients receive realistic assessments of their cases and dedicated advocacy throughout the legal process.
If you’ve been injured in a truck v truck accident in Los Banos or anywhere in the Central Valley, don’t navigate the complex claims process alone. Contact Nunes Law, Inc. at (559) 206-3783 to schedule a free consultation and learn how experienced legal representation can help you pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

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