When a pedestrian is involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, the results can be devastating. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection from the impact, leading to a range of severe injuries or even fatalities.
A pedestrian accident can abruptly change your life, leading to long-term physical consequences, emotional distress, and financial hardship. Below are some of the most common forms of damage that a person can sustain in these collisions.
Soft Tissue Damage
One of the most common, yet often overlooked, consequences of pedestrian accidents is soft tissue damage. These injuries include sprains, strains, and tears to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. While some soft tissue injuries may heal with time, others can lead to chronic pain or long-lasting complications.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when the force of the impact causes the brain to collide against the skull. In many cases, pedestrians are thrown onto the road and hit their heads on the road, pavement, or another object. This trauma can lead to serious injuries, which range from mild concussions to severe brain damage. If you’ve received a brain injury due to a pedestrian accident, contact our Augusta brain injury lawyers today.
Brain trauma can be life-altering, including cognitive, physical, and psychological impairments. TBI symptoms may not appear immediately but can worsen without treatment, making it imperative to seek medical attention after an accident.
Broken Bones and Fractures
The force of a pedestrian-vehicle collision can easily break bones and cause painful fractures. These injuries can range from simple fractures requiring casts, to complex ones necessitating surgical intervention and extended rehabilitation. Recovery often involves physical therapy, and the injured pedestrian may face temporary or permanent activity restrictions.
Internal Organ Damage
The impact of a vehicle can cause blunt force trauma, leading to ruptured organs, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening conditions. Internal injuries may not show any symptoms right away, but they can be dangerous without treatment. Immediate medical intervention is often required to save the pedestrian’s life, and long-term monitoring may be necessary due to potential complications.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord damage is a particularly grave outcome of pedestrian accidents. These injuries occur when the spinal cord is severed, compressed, or damaged in some way, leading to partial or complete paralysis.
Spinal cord damage can have a devastating impact on a pedestrian’s quality of life. Besides immense physical pain, victims might face emotional trauma and financial burdens from medical bills, assistive devices, and home modifications.
What to Do If You Are Injured in a Pedestrian Accident
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away but could deteriorate rapidly without intervention. Immediate medical care not only protects your health but is also essential for any future legal claims. With documentation of your injuries, medical expenses, and any related information, you can clearly establish the severity and extent of your injuries.
After addressing your immediate health concerns, contact an Augusta pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your legal options. An attorney can help you hold the at-fault driver accountable and recover compensation to pay for your medical bills, disability accommodations, and other losses. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case with a lawyer and take your first steps toward justice.
