What Are the Common Causes and Injuries of Pedestrian Accidents?

All road users should understand the common causes of and injuries resulting from pedestrian accidents. If you were involved in a collision as a pedestrian you have several rights and legal options to explore. Work with a knowledgeable Monmouth County pedestrian accident attorney for more information and skilled legal representation during your case.

How Are Pedestrian Accidents Caused?

Pedestrian accidents have a number of causes ranging from the driver’s negligence to the pedestrian’s reckless behavior, the local government’s lack of road maintenance, or uncontrollable circumstances. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Failing to yield the right of way
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Drunk or high driving
• Jaywalking
• Drunk or high walking
• Inadequate lighting
• Poor road design
• Potholes, uneven pavement, and poor road upkeep
• Malfunctioning traffic lights
• Weather conditions

What Are the Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrians can sustain a wide range of injuries after being struck by motor vehicles depending on the details of the accident. Depending on where on their body they were hit, how fast the vehicle was traveling, and where and how the pedestrian landed on the ground, resulting injuries could be minor, severe, or even fatal.

According to studies by the NIH (National Institutes of Health), the most common pedestrian injuries are to the lower extremities like the hips, legs, knees, ankles, and feet. Head, face, and neck injuries were the second highest followed by the upper extremities, chest area, spine, abdomen, and pelvis. Regardless of the area of the body, the most commonly occurring specific injuries generally include the following.

• Cuts, scrapes, and lacerations
• Bruises and contusions
• Sprains and strains
• Broken and fractured bones
• Concussions
• Other traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal bleeding
• Other internal injuries like organ damage
• Psychological injuries

Any of these injuries have the capacity to be devastating or even fatal, especially if undiagnosed and untreated. Understanding how to identify these injuries and get help is imperative in prioritizing your health and well-being after an accident.

Can I Collect Compensation After a Pedestrian Accident?

Yes, if you sustained injuries or other damages in a pedestrian accident you may be eligible to recover compensation through a claim or lawsuit. With the help of a skilled lawyer you can identify the negligent party in your accident and gather and present evidence of how their behavior caused the accident and your resulting damages.

You may be able to recover compensation for both economic and noneconomic damages including the following.

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Future medical expenses

Understanding your rights and legal options is crucial to ensure you protect yourself and are able to recover the compensation that you deserve. Work with a skilled attorney at The Wilton Law Firm for knowledgeable legal advice and representation.