Technically, walking should be one of the safest ways to get around. But when vehicles are involved, pedestrians often pay the highest price. According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), 9,188 pedestrians were killed in 2022.
Unlike drivers or passengers, pedestrians fall under the same umbrella as cyclists and motorcyclists since they have very little protection. This means that even a low-speed accident can cause very serious injuries. Here are the four most common injuries in pedestrian accident victims.
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries are very common yet serious injuries that pedestrians suffer after being hit by a car. These injuries happen when the person’s head hits the car, pavement, or a hard surface. A mild injury might be a concussion, but more severe accidents can cause skull fractures or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that can be expensive to treat. Victims are advised to hire a pedestrian accident lawyer from TopDog Law to ensure they get fairly compensated.
Brain injuries have a wide range of symptoms. Some people may struggle with memory loss, confusion, dizziness, or even personality changes. In some serious cases, brain damage can be permanent, affecting a victim’s ability to work, care for themselves, or live independently.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
The spine protects the nerves that control movement and feeling throughout our body. When your spine is damaged in an accident, the results can be devastating. Spinal cord injuries are often caused by a strong impact that fractures or dislocates the vertebrae in your neck or back.
In some cases, pedestrians can end up with a slipped or herniated disc. This can be extremely painful and limit movements. In more severe cases, spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or total paralysis. Recovery may take months or years. Some people may never regain full functionality.
3. Broken Bones and Fractures
When a car hits you and knocks you to the ground, the force can easily break bones, especially if the vehicle is speeding. Vulnerable areas include your arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. Some fractures are clean and heal relatively fast with a simple cast and by getting enough rest. Other fractures are more serious, like compound fractures, where the bone breaks and cuts through the skin.
Depending on the location and how severe the fracture is, broken bones may require multiple surgeries, physical therapy, and very long recovery periods. In older adults, these injuries can be even more dangerous, leading to long-term mobility issues or the need to use assistive devices.
4. Internal Injuries
Not all injuries are visible right away. Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, may take time to notice and can be very life-threatening when not treated quickly enough. These injuries are usually caused by the strong impact of a vehicle hitting your body.
Common internal injuries include damage to the:
- Liver
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Lungs
Because the symptoms may not show up immediately, anyone involved in a pedestrian accident needs to get medical attention, even if they feel fine at first. If you have any pain, swelling, tenderness, or difficulty breathing, it could indicate internal injuries. Remember, the sooner you catch your injuries, the earlier you can save your life.
Conclusion
Pedestrian accidents can cause a wide range of injuries that are not listed in the article. However, head trauma, spinal damage, broken bones, and internal injuries are among the most common. To reduce the chances of getting into an accident as a pedestrian, stay alert and avoid jaywalking. As a driver, you need to stay focused and watch out for people crossing the street. A few seconds of caution can ruin a life or prevent an eternity of pain.