Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries that often necessitate surgical intervention. Even when surgery is not necessary, proper treatment and recovery may still be a long journey.
Car accident injuries vary in nature and severity but can have lasting impacts on an affected pedestrian’s well-being. Understanding the common injuries that may require surgery is part of establishing the gravity of pedestrian accidents.
Fractures and broken bones
One of the most common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents is fractures or broken bones. The impact of a collision can exert immense force on the body, leading to fractures in the arms, legs, pelvis or spine. In many cases, these fractures are severe and require open reduction and internal fixation surgery to realign the bones.
Traumatic brain injuries
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable to traumatic brain injuries due to the potential for head trauma upon impact with a vehicle or the pavement. TBIs can range from concussions to more severe injuries like skull fractures. Surgery may be necessary to alleviate pressure on the brain, remove blood clots or repair fractures.
Spinal cord injuries
Pedestrian accidents often result in spinal cord injuries, which can have debilitating consequences. Severe spinal cord injuries may require surgery to stabilize the spine or remove fragments of bone or tissue.
The Insurance Insitute for Highway Safety reports that there were 7,388 pedestrian deaths in 2021 alone. This figure illustrates just how common and dangerous a pedestrian accident can be. If a negligent driver hits you while you are walking, you certainly deserve ample compensation for any necessary treatments.