Key Takeaways:

• Pedestrian accidents often result in severe and long-lasting injuries.
• Fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries are among the most common physical impacts.
• Emotional and psychological injuries, although less visible, are also frequent outcomes that should not be underestimated.
• Seeking prompt and proper medical care is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Physical Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of physical injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects on your quality of life. Let’s delve into some common types:

Fractures

• Upper Body: Collarbone, arm, and wrist fractures often occur when victims try to break their fall.
• Lower Body: Hip and leg fractures are common due to the direct impact from vehicles.
• Facial and Skull: These fractures can result from hitting the windshield or pavement.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

• Concussion: A milder form of TBI, but can still result in long-term issues like memory loss.
• Contusion: A brain bruise that can cause swelling and increased intracranial pressure.
• Penetrating Injury: These are severe and usually occur when an object pierces the skull.

Spinal Cord Injuries

• Partial Paralysis: Damage to certain areas of the spinal cord can result in the loss of function in specific body parts.
• Complete Paralysis: Severe spinal cord injuries can result in total loss of function below the point of injury.

Soft Tissue Injuries

• Sprains and Strains: Ligaments and muscles can be stretched or torn.
• Contusions: Commonly known as bruises, these occur due to blunt force.
• Lacerations: Deep cuts that may require stitches and can result in scarring.

Emotional and Psychological Injuries

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This condition can develop after experiencing a traumatic event like a pedestrian accident.
• Depression: A common outcome due to the life-altering nature of severe injuries.
• Anxiety: Fear of walking near roads or crossing streets can persist long after the accident.

Importance of Medical Evaluation

It’s vital to seek medical attention promptly after an accident for:

1. Immediate Care: Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not show immediate symptoms.
2. Accurate Diagnosis: Proper diagnostic tests can uncover the full extent of injuries.
3. Legal Evidence: Medical records serve as crucial evidence when filing for compensation.

Conclusion

Understanding the common injury types in pedestrian accidents is critical for effective treatment and legal action. If you have experienced a pedestrian accident in New York, the NYC Personal Injury Lawyers at The Orlow Firm can offer the specialized support and legal guidance you need. Don’t hesitate to reach out for a comprehensive evaluation of your case.