Pedestrian accidents often result in severe injuries because the victims are vulnerable when struck by a moving vehicle. The severity and type of injuries can vary based on factors such as the speed of the vehicle, the angle of impact, and the pedestrian’s age and physical condition. However, there are some common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents that we regularly see:
- Head Injuries
Unfortunately, a pedestrian struck by a moving car is often thrown to the ground. With no head protection, an accident victim’s head can hit the ground, resulting in head injuries, which can be severe. Such injuries can result in:
Concussions: Mild traumatic brain injuries that can cause temporary cognitive impairments.
Skull Fractures: Broken bones in the skull which can lead to serious complications.
Brain Injuries: Ranging from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), potentially resulting in long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries
Paralysis: Depending on the severity of the impact and location of the injury sustained by a pedestrian victim, the spinal cord can get injured, unfortunately resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
Herniated Discs: The force of impact and the force with which the victim hits the ground can damage the discs between the vertebrae. These injuries can cause significant pain and mobility issues.
- Fractures and Broken Bones
Legs and Arms: These are common due to direct impact with the vehicle and/or the ground. Sometimes, the victim will attempt to break the fall by extending his or her arm out and, in doing so, fracture the wrist and/or forearm as well.
Ribs: A direct hit to the ribcage area can result in fracturing the ribs, which can puncture the lungs or cause other internal injuries.
Pelvis: Pelvic fractures can be particularly severe and painful, resulting in a long recovery time.
- Soft Tissue Injuries
Lacerations and Abrasions: Road rash, cuts, and scrapes are common in a pedestrian accident because the victim is often times thrown to the ground.
Sprains and Strains: The impact in a pedestrian accident can damage ligaments and muscles, particularly in the neck (including whiplash) and back area.
- Internal Injuries
Internal Bleeding: Severe impact can cause internal bleeding, which can be serious, if not life-threatening. Such injuries require immediate medical attention.
Organ Damage: Injuries to organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys occur.
- Facial Injuries
Fractures: Being thrown to the ground can result in broken facial bones, including the nose, jaw, and cheekbones.
Dental Injuries: Being thrown to the ground can also result in broken teeth, which can require extensive dental work.
Scarring: If the injuries to the face are severe enough to require stitching, then scarring may develop. In such a case, scar revision may be needed.
- Psychological Injuries
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: The severity of the emotional and psychological trauma caused by such an accident cannot be understated. Indeed, many survivors of pedestrian accidents experience nightmares, post-traumatic stress, and flashbacks, requiring treatment.
Anxiety and Depression: Long-term mental health issues can arise due to the accident.
Factors That Influence the Severity of Pedestrian Injuries
Speed of the Vehicle: Higher speeds typically result in more severe injuries and even death in some unfortunate cases.
Type of Vehicle: Larger vehicles, particularly trucks and SUVs, cause more significant harm.
Point of Impact: The area of the body that takes the brunt of the collision can affect the type of injury sustained.
Age of the Pedestrian: Elderly pedestrians and children are particularly vulnerable to severe injuries.
Prevention Measures
Higher visibility: The more visible you are as a pedestrian, the better the chances that a motorist will see you. So, make yourself visible, especially at night, by wearing clothing that reflects light as opposed to dark clothing.
Pedestrian Education: Be aware of your surroundings and watch for approaching vehicles, especially when crossing the street – this is especially important if you are using AirPods or headphones to listen to music. Use crosswalks whenever possible.
Improved Road Safety: Better crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and lower speed limits in high-traffic pedestrian areas also help reduce pedestrian accident rates.
Driver Awareness: Pedestrians are not the only ones who need to avoid distractions. The same applies to motorists. Aside from avoiding distractions, motorists should be extra diligent when approaching populated areas, especially in school zones.
We are here to help
Pedestrian accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, many of which require immediate and sometimes long-term medical care. However, preventive measures and increased awareness are crucial to reducing the incidence and severity of these accidents.
The Mason Law Firm is managed by Mason Rashtian, who has over 27 years of litigation experience. Our number one priority are our clients. So, clients get the “big law firm experience” with the “small law firm’s personal touch”. Clients who contact our office are familiar with the staff, and the staff is familiar with our clients.
If you are involved in an accident, including a pedestrian accident, and want to know your rights, please contact our office. We work on contingency. So, there is NEVER out-of-pocket fees or costs to you. We serve the Los Angeles County (including Santa Clarita Valley), Orange County, Ventura County, Kern County, and San Bernardino County.
We can be reached at (661) 476-5678 or (855) MASONLA, or you can contact us on our firm’s contact page by clicking here.