Pedestrian accidents are all too common and can lead to devastating injuries. Whether you’re walking on a sidewalk or crossing the street, a collision with a vehicle can cause severe harm. Unlike occupants of vehicles who have the protection of airbags and seat belts, pedestrians are left completely vulnerable. This blog explores the most common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents, as well as the steps you can take to recover, both physically and financially.
1. Head Injuries:
Common Types: Concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), skull fractures
How They Occur: When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the head is often the first body part to make contact with the ground or the vehicle itself. Head injuries are particularly concerning because of their potential long-term effects on cognitive function, motor skills, and overall brain health.
How to Recover: Immediate medical care is essential for head injuries. If you suspect a head injury, go to the hospital right away, even if symptoms seem mild. Brain injuries can worsen over time. Your doctor may recommend imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs to assess the extent of the damage. Treatment for TBIs may include rest, rehabilitation therapies, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Long-term recovery from a TBI often requires physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes psychological counseling, as the emotional impact can be significant.
2. Broken Bones:
Common Types: Broken legs, arms, ribs, and collarbones
How They Occur: Pedestrians often suffer from fractures due to the force of the collision. When a pedestrian is hit, the impact can cause bones to break, especially in areas that are unprotected, like the arms and legs. In some cases, pedestrians may also suffer fractures to their ribs or collarbones from the impact of the vehicle or the ground.
How to Recover: Recovery from broken bones can vary depending on the severity of the fracture. In most cases, fractures require immobilization, which can include casts, braces, or even surgery if the bone needs to be realigned. Physical therapy is often necessary to regain full mobility and strength once the bone has healed. For more severe fractures, especially those involving weight-bearing bones, rehabilitation might last several months.
3. Spinal Cord Injuries:
Common Types: Herniated discs, fractures, paralysis
How They Occur: The spine is vulnerable in pedestrian accidents, especially if the pedestrian is struck in a way that causes them to fall violently to the ground. Spinal cord injuries can lead to serious consequences, including paralysis, numbness, or loss of sensation below the point of injury.
How to Recover: Spinal cord injuries often require immediate emergency care to stabilize the injury. After the initial care, recovery may involve surgery, followed by extensive physical therapy to regain movement and independence. The potential for recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury, and some individuals may face lifelong challenges.
4. Internal Injuries:
Common Types: Internal bleeding, organ damage, ruptured spleens, liver lacerations
How They Occur: Pedestrians are at risk of internal injuries when struck by a vehicle, especially if the impact is strong or occurs at high speed. The force of the collision can cause internal organs to be injured or damaged. Internal bleeding is particularly dangerous because it may not be immediately noticeable but can be life-threatening.
How to Recover: Immediate medical intervention is essential for internal injuries. Treatment usually involves surgery to stop any internal bleeding and repair damage to organs. In the case of severe internal injuries, recovery can be prolonged and might involve follow-up surgeries or other interventions. It’s essential to monitor symptoms and seek medical care for ongoing treatment.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries:
Common Types: Whiplash, muscle strains, ligament tears, sprains
How They Occur: Soft tissue injuries occur when the body’s muscles, ligaments, or tendons are stretched or torn during the accident. Pedestrians may experience whiplash or other neck and back injuries when they are thrown into the air or violently thrown to the ground.
How to Recover: Soft tissue injuries usually require rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.). More severe strains or tears may require physical therapy or the use of braces to aid in recovery. Pain management and rehabilitation exercises are often necessary to ensure full recovery and avoid long-term pain or mobility issues.
6. Psychological Injuries:
Common Types: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety
How They Occur: Psychological injuries are common after a traumatic event like a pedestrian accident. The emotional and mental toll of such an accident can lead to long-term psychological issues. The trauma from being struck by a vehicle can cause nightmares, flashbacks, and constant anxiety.
How to Recover: Psychological injuries often require professional help. Therapy with a psychologist or counselor can help you process the trauma. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can be highly effective in helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Medication may also be prescribed for those suffering from severe depression or anxiety.
7. Foot and Ankle Injuries:
Common Types: Sprains, fractures, tendon injuries
How They Occur: The foot and ankle are particularly vulnerable in pedestrian accidents due to their exposure when crossing streets. A pedestrian may suffer from sprains, fractures, or tendon injuries if they are knocked over or fall onto the pavement. Ankle and foot injuries are often extremely painful and can significantly limit mobility.
How to Recover: Foot and ankle injuries typically require rest, elevation, and immobilization to heal properly. In some cases, surgery may be necessary, especially if a bone is fractured or a tendon is torn. Physical therapy is usually recommended once the injury has healed to help restore strength, flexibility, and function to the affected area.
Conclusion:
Pedestrian accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, from broken bones to psychological trauma. The path to recovery depends on the severity of your injuries, but it often requires a combination of medical treatment, physical therapy, and sometimes psychological support. If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible and consult with a personal injury lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process.
Remember, recovering from an accident takes time, and it’s important to focus on your health first. By following your doctor’s advice, seeking the proper therapies, and protecting your legal rights, you can make a full recovery and begin to move forward with your life.
If you’ve been involved in a pedestrian accident and need help, don’t hesitate to contact a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer to guide you through the recovery process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
