Auto pedestrian accidents are collisions between motor vehicles and individuals on foot. These types of accidents can be devastating for the pedestrian, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Because pedestrians have no protection in these situations, the consequences can be severe. In fact, pedestrians are often at a higher risk of injury or death than those involved in car accidents.
In this article, we’ll explore the causes of auto pedestrian accidents, the potential injuries involved, what to do if you are involved in one, and how a lawyer can help victims of such accidents seek justice and compensation.
Causes of Auto Pedestrian Accidents
Auto pedestrian accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:
Driver Negligence: In many cases, a driver’s failure to follow traffic laws leads to a pedestrian accident. Common forms of negligence include:
Distracted driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention to the road.
Speeding: Driving at excessive speeds, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as crosswalks or school zones.
Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Failing to stop at traffic signals or signs can lead to a collision with pedestrians who have the right of way.
Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol or drug impairment can seriously impair a driver’s reaction time, leading to accidents.
Pedestrian Behavior: Pedestrians can also contribute to accidents by making unsafe decisions, such as:
Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of designated crosswalks or without paying attention to traffic signals.
Walking in Traffic: Pedestrians who walk along or near the roadway, especially at night or in poorly lit areas, increase the risk of accidents.
Poor Infrastructure or Road Conditions: Sometimes, pedestrian accidents occur due to unsafe road conditions or a lack of proper infrastructure, such as:
Lack of Crosswalks: In some areas, there may be insufficient pedestrian crossings, forcing people to cross streets in dangerous locations.
Poor Lighting: Lack of adequate street lighting at night can make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians.
Uneven Sidewalks: Sidewalks that are cracked, uneven, or obstructed can lead pedestrians into the path of moving vehicles.
Weather Conditions: Weather can play a role in pedestrian accidents, particularly in adverse conditions such as rain, snow, or fog, which can impair visibility for both pedestrians and drivers.
Common Injuries in Auto Pedestrian Accidents
Because pedestrians are exposed to the full impact of a vehicle’s collision, the injuries in auto pedestrian accidents tend to be severe and often include:
Head Injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common in pedestrian accidents, especially if the pedestrian is struck by the vehicle and thrown to the ground or into another object.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Pedestrians can suffer broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones from being hit or knocked down.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents that result in a pedestrian being thrown or struck can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or other serious long-term disabilities.
Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or organ damage can result from the force of the impact, which may require immediate medical attention and surgery.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash, sprains, strains, and muscle damage are also common, though these injuries are typically less visible but can still be debilitating.
Death: In extreme cases, pedestrians involved in a collision with a motor vehicle may not survive the accident, especially if they are struck by a large vehicle, such as a truck.
What to Do If You’re Involved in an Auto Pedestrian Accident
If you are a pedestrian involved in an accident, here are the steps you should take to protect yourself and ensure the best possible outcome:
Seek Medical Attention: The first thing you should do is check for injuries and seek medical help. Even if you don’t feel pain immediately, some injuries (such as concussions or internal injuries) might not show symptoms right away. Always get checked by a healthcare professional after the accident.
Call the Police: Contact the police immediately to report the accident. An officer will create an official report documenting the incident, which will be crucial for your insurance claim or lawsuit.
Gather Evidence: If you are able, take photos of the scene, including the vehicle that hit you, the area where the accident occurred, and any visible injuries. If there are witnesses to the accident, get their contact information.
Document Your Injuries: Keep records of your injuries, treatments, and medical bills. Documentation of your injuries is vital for pursuing a personal injury claim.
Consult an Attorney: A personal injury lawyer experienced in pedestrian accidents can help you navigate the legal process, understand your rights, and advocate for fair compensation.
How an Attorney Can Help in an Auto Pedestrian Accident Case
A personal injury attorney specializing in pedestrian accidents can be invaluable in helping victims recover compensation for their injuries. Here’s how a lawyer can help:
Determining Liability: A lawyer will investigate the circumstances of the accident, including interviewing witnesses, reviewing traffic camera footage, and consulting experts if necessary. They will help determine who is at fault—whether it’s the driver, a government entity, or another party.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims for much less than what victims are entitled to. A skilled attorney can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you are offered a fair settlement that covers medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Filing a Lawsuit: If negotiations don’t lead to a satisfactory outcome, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court to fight for compensation.
Maximizing Compensation: A lawyer can help you pursue all types of damages, including medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses associated with the accident. They will ensure that you are fully compensated for the impact the accident has had on your life.
Dealing with Complex Legal Issues: Pedestrian accidents may involve multiple parties, including insurance companies, government agencies, or negligent vehicle manufacturers. An attorney can handle these complexities and ensure all parties are held accountable.
Conclusion
Auto pedestrian accidents are serious incidents that can result in severe injury or death. If you or a loved one is involved in such an accident, it’s important to seek immediate medical care and legal assistance. A pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
By hiring an experienced lawyer, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation necessary to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages related to the accident.