Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents
As the world continues to move at an ever-increasing pace, more and more people are choosing to take to the streets on foot, whether to reduce their carbon footprint or to get some exercise. Unfortunately, this means that pedestrian accidents have become an all-too-common occurrence on our roads and highways. When a pedestrian is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, the consequences can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or even loss of life.
Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel, P.C., Fight For Pedestrian Accident Victims
At Chaikin Sherman Cammarata & Siegel P.C., our experienced personal injury lawyers are committed to fighting for the rights of those injured in pedestrian accidents. Our team has decades of experience helping victims of pedestrian accidents recover the compensation they need and deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Pedestrian Accident Injuries:
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries:
Head injuries, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries, are among the most serious pedestrian accident injuries. Concussions occur when the brain is violently rocked back and forth inside the skull. The result can be a range of devastating symptoms, such as confusion, nausea, dizziness, memory problems, and headaches. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be even more serious, with symptoms ranging from temporary paralysis to long-term disability or death.
Broken Bones or Bone fractures
Broken bones or fractures are among the most common pedestrian accident injuries. Bone fractures can range from simple breaks that heal on their own with minimal treatment to more serious compound fractures where the bone pierces the skin. The severity of a broken bone injury depends largely on which bone is fractured and how badly it is broken. Commonly affected areas include the arms and legs, though any bone in the body may be affected. The severity of the injury and the amount of time required to heal depends on the type and location of the fracture.
Neck and back injuries
Neck and back injuries are some of the most common types of pedestrian accident injuries and can be especially serious. Neck injuries, such as whiplash or herniated discs, can cause severe pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulders and arms. Back injuries, such as sprains and strains, can also be quite painful and lead to further medical complications.
Soft tissue injuries
Soft tissue injuries are another common type of pedestrian accident injury. These can include strains, sprains, and tears in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries can be extremely painful and require a significant amount of time for healing. In some cases, surgery may be required.
Spinal cord injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe and life-altering pedestrian accident injuries, resulting in permanent and irreversible damage. These injuries occur when the spine is damaged or compressed, disrupting communication between the brain and body. Common symptoms of spinal cord injuries include loss of sensation or movement below the level of injury, as well as permanent paralysis or disability.
Internal bleeding and organ damage
Internal bleeding and organ damage are some of the most serious and potentially life-threatening pedestrian accident injuries. Internal bleeding occurs when a blood vessel or organ is damaged or punctured, allowing blood to escape into the surrounding tissues. It can be caused by blunt force trauma, such as a forceful impact with a vehicle, or from sharp objects, such as broken glass or metal. When not immediately treated, this type of injury can be fatal. Organ damage is closely related and can occur with any blunt or penetrating trauma to the body. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and confusion. A medical professional should always evaluate internal injuries as soon as possible.
Lacerations and bruises
Lacerations and bruises are common pedestrian accident injuries that can be painful and take significant time to heal. A laceration is a deep cut or tear of the skin caused by blunt force, such as being hit by a vehicle or sharp objects, such as broken glass. These wounds often require medical attention and may need sutures or other treatments to reduce the risk of infection. Bruises occur when blood vessels beneath the skin are damaged by a blow, causing localized discoloration and swelling. They can take several days or weeks to heal, depending on their severity.
Emotional/Psychological Injuries:
Finally, emotional and psychological injuries resulting from a pedestrian accident can also be very serious. Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the traumatic event. These types of injuries should always be taken seriously and treated by qualified mental health professionals.
Death
Loss of life is one of the most tragic outcomes of a pedestrian. The impact of a vehicle running into a pedestrian can be devastating, leading to irreversible trauma and sometimes fatality. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated 6,000 pedestrians lose their lives every year in motor vehicle-related crashes in the United States. Pedestrian fatalities often lead to wrongful death lawsuits and other legal claims.
It’s crucial to remember that any pedestrian accident has the potential to cause significant injury or death and should always be taken seriously. If you or a loved one were injured in a pedestrian accident, it is essential to seek medical attention right away, document your injuries, and contact a qualified attorney to discuss your legal options.
If you have lost a loved one in a pedestrian accident, our attorneys can help you pursue a wrongful death claim.
What To Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, make sure to do the following:
Seek medical attention right away
Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s important to get checked out by a doctor.
Call the police and file a report about the accident
This will help document all of the details and may be useful if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
Document everything
Take photos of the scene and any visible injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses. Make sure to keep track of all medical bills, therapy costs, and other expenses related to the accident.
Do not admit fault or sign any documents without consulting a lawyer
Insurance companies may try to get you to accept responsibility for the accident. However, it’s best to wait and speak with an attorney before making any decisions.
Contact a pedestrian accident attorney
If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and protect them while you recover from the trauma of the accident.
File a claim or lawsuit if necessary
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other losses. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue your claim for you.
Pedestrian safety is essential for all people, whether they are pedestrians or drivers. Taking certain precautions when walking and driving can help reduce the risk of an accident. However, it is crucial to be prepared if an accident does occur. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact an experienced attorney who can protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Being in a Pedestrian Accident
There are steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of being involved in a pedestrian accident. Some tips include:
• Use crosswalks and obey traffic signals when crossing streets.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking at night.
• Stay alert and aware of your surroundings while walking near roads.
• Avoid distractions such as listening to music or looking at your phone.
• Be extra cautious when walking near intersections, construction sites, and school zones.
• Make sure drivers can see you by using hand signals and eye contact before crossing a street.
• Always use sidewalks when available and walk on the left side of the road facing traffic.
• Don’t drink and walk, as it can impair judgment and make reacting quickly to unexpected dangers more difficult.
These prevention tips will help keep you safe while walking near roads, but use caution and remember that even the most prepared pedestrian can still be involved in an accident. If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today.
Where Do Most Pedestrian Accidents Occur?
Unfortunately, pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere. But statistically, most pedestrian accidents happen in urban areas and near intersections. This is because these areas usually have more traffic and pedestrians than rural roads. Additionally, many people who are walking are also distracted by their phones or music, which can cause them not to pay attention to their surroundings. As a result, they may not be able to react quickly enough when a vehicle appears. Be alert and aware when walking near urban roads or intersections.
Why Are Pedestrian Accidents So Dangerous?
Pedestrian accidents are particularly dangerous because pedestrians have no protection against a vehicle, such as an airbag or seat belt. Even if the speed of the vehicle is not very fast, the force of impact can cause serious injuries to a pedestrian.
Who Can Be Held Responsible For a Pedestrian Accident?
In most cases, the driver of the vehicle will be held liable for any pedestrian injuries or damages sustained in an accident. However, there may also be other parties that can be held responsible as well. For example, if poor lighting or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, then the government entity responsible for maintaining these features could potentially be held liable. Additionally, if the pedestrian was not paying attention due to distractions such as their phone or music player, then they may be partially responsible for the accident.
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine who is liable and seek justice on your behalf. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident, do not hesitate to contact an attorney today.
How Much Is My Pedestrian Accident Claim Worth?
The best way to find out what your case might be worth is to speak with an attorney with Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata & Siegel, P.C. Our accident lawyers have obtained settlements for various car accident cases.
Here are a few of our case results:
- $6 million for a client who suffered a brain injury after being involved in a rear-end collision.
- $4.8 million for a severely injured client after another vehicle struck his motorcycle.
- $1.9 million for a client who suffered a permanent back injury due to a car accident.
- $1.5 million for a client who had to undergo multiple surgeries after a negligent motorist cut off his motorcycle.
- A $1 million settlement was obtained on behalf of our 19-year-old client, who was a passenger in a car in which the driver lost control, causing a collision. As a result, our client suffered extensive brain damage with cognitive impairment. He was in a coma for an extended period of time. Although he has regained consciousness, he is unable to care for himself. The law firm asked the Court to appoint him a guardian to care for him. The law firm is helping to establish a special needs trust so that the proceeds from the settlement will be protected against any medical liens.
- $1 million settlement on behalf of the client suffered a brain injury when the driver of the car in which he was a passenger lost control of his vehicle.
Injured In a Pedestrian Accident? We Can Help.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a pedestrian accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you seek the compensation you well deserve. At the Law Firm of Chaikin, Sherman, Cammarata, & Siegel, P.C., our team of experienced lawyers will fight to protect your rights and ensure that justice is served. Don’t wait – contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to help you.