by All over America, pedestrian injuries are a common occurrence and a growing threat. They are some of the worst accident cases and can dramatically impact the quality of life of the victim.
According to a report by the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine, pedestrians are likely tosuffer twice as many injuries compared to motorists or bicyclists.
No matter how many precautions pedestrians take,some drivers will always be negligent.
If you have been involved in this type of accident, you should consider finding the best pedestrian accident lawyers to help.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Like any other form of accident, a lot of conditions can contribute to pedestrian accidents. Identifying the cause is important so that those responsible for the accident are held accountable. Some of the common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Drunk driving
- Speeding
- Non-adherence to traffic signs
- Distracted walking
- Defective road conditions
- Inexperienced drivers
- Weather conditions
To help mitigate the risk of pedestrian accidents, the above factors should be addressed through public awareness and better infrastructure.
5 Common Injuries Caused by Pedestrian Accidents
Several injuries can occur as a result of pedestrian accidents. Some occur more regularly than others. Some can also be easily managed, while others require comprehensive medical attention. Below are 5 of the most common injuries pedestrian accident victims are susceptible to.
Head injuries
Pedestrian accidents can lead to hitting one’s head against the ground or the vehicle. A head injury is one of the most common injuries in a pedestrian accident. These injuries can range from mild to severe, which can sometimes be difficult to tell, and increase with a person’s age. Depending on the severity of a head injury, if not quickly managed, it could lead to permanent deficits or death.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Severe pedestrian accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord. The higher the impact of the vehicle on the victim, the higher the chances and severity of trauma. The spinal cord, together with the brain, comprises the body’s central nervous system, which controls nearly all body functions. Any injury to the spinal cord interrupts the normal flow of signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The result is a case of paralysis, loss of sensation or function in the affected body parts.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Another common pedestrian injury, perhaps the most common, is lower extremity injuries. This refers to a range of injuries affecting the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and legs. They can significantly impact mobility and lead to long-term complications. This will sometimes necessitate comprehensive medical treatment and physical therapy to restore function and mobility. In severe cases, victims can end up with permanent disabilities.
Chest Injuries
The chest is another part of the human body that is home to vital life organs. It houses organs such as the heart, lungs, oesophagus, and thoracic diaphragm. Depending on the impact of the collision, a pedestrian accident can lead to rib fractures, cardiac trauma, and lung injuries. Injuries sustained to the chest usually require prompt medical attention and careful examination.
Pelvic Injuries
The pelvic area is an important part of the human body, as it is home to vital organs and vessels such as the intestines and bladder. It is a possible type of injury for pedestrians, depending on the height of the vehicle. The pelvic area is susceptible to various types of trauma, ranging from mild to severe. The internal organs within the pelvic cavity are vulnerable to strong impacts. When it collides with the ground or vehicle, it potentially leads to fractures, internal bleeding, or other forms of complications.
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