Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents are among the most dangerous types of traffic collisions. Without the protection of a vehicle, pedestrians often suffer severe, life-changing injuries – even in crashes that happen at low speeds. Understanding the most common injuries can help victims recognize the seriousness of their situation, seek proper medical care, and protect their legal rights.
Head and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries are one of the leading causes of long-term disability in pedestrian crashes. These injuries can occur even without a direct impact to the head. Common forms include:
- Concussions,
- Skull fractures,
- Brain bleeds, and
- Diffuse axonal injuries.
Symptoms of any of the above may include headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, sensitivity to light, or memory problems. Prompt medical treatment is crucial in these situations.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a collision often throws a pedestrian onto the pavement or the vehicle itself. This can lead to fractures in areas such as:
- Legs and ankles,
- Arms and wrists,
- Ribs, and
- Hips and pelvis.
Many fractures require surgery, physical therapy, and lengthy recovery periods.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
A pedestrian’s spine can easily be damaged in even moderate-speed impacts. Common spinal cord and back injuries include:
- Herniated or bulging discs,
- Nerve compression,
- Vertebrae fractures, and
- Partial or complete spinal cord injury.
These injuries often cause long-term pain, loss of mobility, or permanent disability.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries are extremely common and can be deceptively serious. They include:
- Whiplash,
- Muscle tears,
- Ligament sprains, and
- Bruising and lacerations.
While these injuries may seem “minor,” they can lead to chronic pain and limited range of motion – especially if untreated.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are not always visible but can be life-threatening. Pedestrians may suffer:
- Internal bleeding,
- Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys),
- Punctured lungs, and
- Abdominal trauma.
These injuries often require emergency treatment and can become fatal if not diagnosed quickly.
Facial Injuries and Dental Trauma
When a pedestrian is thrown forward, the face is often the first point of impact. Common injuries include:
- Broken nose or jaw,
- Orbital fractures,
- Dental fractures or tooth loss, and
- Scarring requiring reconstructive surgery.
These injuries can carry emotional as well as physical impacts.
Psychological Trauma
Pedestrian crashes frequently result in emotional and mental health challenges, including:
- PTSD,
- Anxiety,
- Depression, and
- Sleep disruptions.
These effects can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and may require counseling or long-term support.
Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Insurance companies often try to minimize these claims, especially when injuries are delayed or complex.
Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side can make all the difference. A lawyer can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance carriers, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Contact Justice Through Compensation for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, please know that the law firm of Justice Through Compensation is here to help. Our legal team is skilled, experienced, and passionate in their representation. Let us shoulder the burden of an injury claim or lawsuit while you focus on healing from your injuries. Contact us today for the quality legal help you deserve.