Roughly 137,000 pedestrians are treated in emergency rooms for crash-related injuries each year. While we don’t often think about it, we always take a risk when we walk near roadways.
Most of us take our safety for granted, but when drivers don’t keep a close eye on the road, the results can be particularly devastating, especially for pedestrians involved in car accidents.
Of course, you don’t have to be out on a walk to qualify as a pedestrian. You may be changing a tire, cleaning your windshield, helping another motorist who has car trouble, riding in a wheelchair or merely walking to the store.
Pedestrian-car accidents most often happen when a driver:
- Is distracted by a passenger;
- Fails to notice a pedestrian “walk” signal;
- Fails to follow posted speed limits;
- Turns at intersections without looking both ways;
- Texts or calls while driving; or
- Drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
The average automobile weighs more than two tons and can wreak havoc with the human body even at slow speeds. Pedestrian victims of auto accidents frequently receive serious, if not catastrophic injuries, such as:
- Head Trauma, including concussions traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
- Deep cuts (lacerations) and bruises (contusions), including damage to major organs.
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis or other losses of function.
- Dental and/or facial injuries.
Immediately after the accident, pedestrian victims should be treated by medical professionals not only at the scene but at a medical facility, where x-rays and other tests can be taken to determine the level of injuries sustained. Keep in mind that many injuries, including brain, spinal cord and internal injuries, often appear hours or days after the accident. Law enforcement should also be contacted immediately, as the police report can help provide evidence of driver neglect.
It’s not uncommon for victims of pedestrian accidents to experience tremendous physical pain and to acquire expensive medical and hospital bills. Before any compensation can be awarded, it must be determined who is at fault for the accident. By law, drivers are required to show reasonable care when operating their vehicle. If it can be proven that they were negligent, they can be held liable for the accident.
If you have been injured as a pedestrian in an auto accident, you might be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering and more. For more information, consider contacting an experienced legal professional, like a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer from a law firm such as Yearin Law Office.