Every year, thousands of people walking on streets and sidewalks get hit by cars. In the United States alone, over 68,000 pedestrians were injured, and more than 7,314 lost their lives in traffic accidents in a single year. These numbers show how dangerous the roads can be for people on foot.
When a car hits a pedestrian, the results can be serious. From simple cuts to life-changing injuries, the damage can affect every part of a person's life. That's why it's helpful to know the types of injuries that can happen and how to deal with them. If someone is hurt in a crash, experienced lawyers from Suits & Boots Accident Injury Lawyers can help guide them through the recovery and legal process.
Let's get going:
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Many things can cause a driver to hit someone walking. Some drivers don't pay attention because they text or use their phones. Others drive too fast and can't stop in time. Sometimes, drivers don't see people walking at night or in the rain. Others may ignore crosswalks and stop signs. And sadly, some drivers are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
These actions can put pedestrians at significant risk, even if they are careful and follow the rules.
Cuts and Lacerations
Cuts are among the most common injuries in a pedestrian accident. When someone hits the ground or crashes into a car, they can get scraped or cut by glass, metal, or the road itself. Some cuts are small and heal quickly, while others are deep and may need stitches or surgery.
Cuts also carry the risk of infection. A small cut can become a bigger medical problem if not cleaned and treated correctly. Some people may even have long-lasting scars.
Bone Fractures
Pedestrians can break bones when they get hit or fall. Hands and wrists often break when someone tries to catch themselves. Legs can snap when hit directly by a car. In more serious crashes, the pelvis or ribs may get hurt, too.
Some bone breaks are clean and easy to fix, while others are more painful and take longer to heal. A person may need a cast, crutches, or even surgery. Healing from a broken bone can take weeks or even months.
Head and Brain Injuries
If a person hits their head during an accident, it can lead to a concussion or even a severe brain injury. These injuries are dangerous because they may not show right away. A person might feel dizzy, forget things, or have trouble thinking clearly.
Head injuries can change someone's life. It's essential to get checked by a doctor, even if the bump on the head seems small. Some effects, like memory loss or mood changes, can last a long.
Spinal Cord and Back Injuries
The back and spine are essential parts of the body. If they are hurt in a crash, it can cause long-term problems. A pedestrian might suffer from slipped discs, broken bones in the spine, or even damage to the spinal cord.
Back injuries can cause sharp pain, make it hard to move, or even lead to paralysis. They require extensive care, and recovery can take a long time.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and bruises. These injuries might not sound serious, but they can be very painful. Someone with a torn muscle or stretched ligament may be unable to walk or move easily for days or weeks.
Swelling, pain, and stiffness are common. These injuries can also take a long time to heal and may require physical therapy.
Internal Injuries
Some injuries are hidden inside the body. A person might feel fine after an accident, but they could be bleeding internally or have a damaged organ, like a lung or kidney. These are medical emergencies.
Internal injuries don't always have clear signs. That's why it's essential to go to the hospital immediately after any pedestrian accident.
Psychological and Emotional Trauma
Not all injuries are physical. Some people feel scared to walk near roads again. They may have nightmares, panic attacks, or feel sad and worried all the time. These emotional injuries are real and can last just as long as physical ones.
Talking to a mental health professional can help someone deal with the emotional side of a crash.
What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident
If someone gets hurt, they should see a doctor immediately. Even minor injuries can get worse. It's also smart to write down what happened and collect photos or witness names if possible. Finally, they may need help from a lawyer to understand their rights and options after the accident.
The Final Say!
Pedestrian accidents can cause many different injuries, from simple cuts to severe head trauma. Every injury matters and needs the proper care. Knowing what to look for helps people protect their health and get the support required.
