Common Injuries in Pedestrian Collisions

When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the injuries can be serious and life-threatening. Without the protection of a metal vehicle around them, a person’s body takes the full impact and force behind that collision, often causing serious injuries and losses. The following are some of the most common injuries in pedestrian collisions. A Boston pedestrian accident attorney from the Cashman Law Firm can assist in your claim.

Injuries Sustained by Pedestrians in Collisions

Common injuries sustained by employees who are struck by a vehicle may include:

• Broken bones: This includes fractures, bone punctures through the skin such as compound fractures, and crushing injuries.
• Head injuries: This includes traumatic brain injuries that may create an impact on the function of the brain, including the development of pain, nausea, speech complications, and cognitive problems. It can also lead to damage to the skull.
• Back injuries: The spinal column is particularly worrisome in car accidents like this because damage to the vertebrae or the spinal cord itself can lead to paralysis and may be permanent. It may also contribute to nerve damage and chronic pain over time.
• Internal injuries: Many people suffer significant internal injuries, including fractures to the ribs, internal bleeding, brain bleeding, damage to organs, and ruptured spleen. These are all very complicated conditions that require immediate medical care.
• Soft tissue damage: In some situations, a person may experience soft tissue damage related to strains and sprains, tears in muscles or ligaments, lacerations, and contusions. Whiplash is a form of soft tissue damage that can damage the upper neck region.
• Joint injuries: Joint injuries include damage to shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips. These injuries can lead to significant mobility limitations and a lack of function in the associated areas.

What Are the Complications From Pedestrian Collision Injuries?

The injuries often impacting pedestrians who are hit by a vehicle create immediate and often long-term consequences. In each situation, the recovery process will depend on the severity of the injury, the amount of damage incurred by a specific area, and the overall impact force and rate. Some of the most common complications to come from pedestrian collisions include:

• Long-term damage to brain function: Changes to cognitive function are not uncommon. Some people may lose their ability to speak and communicate well, while others may be unable to maintain concentration or emotional control.
• Paralysis: Spinal cord injuries may lead to full or partial paralysis, causing ongoing pain and discomfort for individuals but also requiring ongoing medical support, medical equipment, and financial support over a person’s lifetime.
• Emotional trauma: While not a physical injury in itself, it is not uncommon for victims to suffer severe emotional trauma in a car accident with a pedestrian as well. This may lead to the need for ongoing mental health support.

With the help of a trusted and experienced attorney, it may be possible to prove that the injuries, chronic pain, and mental and emotional health complications from a car accident require fair compensation. In many situations, it takes experienced analysis of the condition, the realization of recovery, and diligence to determine the value of such injuries. Talk to a Boston pedestrian accident attorney from the Cashman Law Firm today at a free consultation.