Pedestrian accidents can be devastating and life-altering for those involved. In Washington Court House, Ohio, these types of accidents are unfortunately not uncommon. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to understand your rights and what steps you can take to protect yourself.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, but some of the most common causes include:
Distracted driving: Drivers who are using their phones, eating, or otherwise distracted are less likely to see pedestrians and more likely to cause an accident.
Speeding: Drivers who are speeding are less likely to be able to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
Failure to yield: Drivers who do not yield to pedestrians at crosswalks or intersections can cause serious accidents.
Drunk driving: Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol have slower reaction times and are more likely to cause an accident.
Common Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-term effects on a person’s health and quality of life. Here are some of the most common injuries that pedestrians can suffer in an accident:
Head and Brain Injuries: Pedestrians can suffer head and brain injuries when they are struck by a vehicle. Even if a pedestrian is wearing a helmet, the impact of the accident can cause significant damage to the brain. Some common head and brain injuries include concussions, skull fractures, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and intracranial hemorrhages. These injuries can lead to long-term effects such as memory loss, cognitive impairments, and behavioral changes.
Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can occur when a pedestrian is hit by a car, truck, or other vehicles. The impact of the collision can damage the spinal cord, which can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other serious health problems. In some cases, these injuries can be permanent, leading to a lifetime of medical care and rehabilitation.
Fractures and Broken Bones: Pedestrians are vulnerable to fractures and broken bones when they are hit by a vehicle. These injuries can range from minor fractures to severe, complex breaks that require surgery and extended rehabilitation. Some common fractures and broken bones include broken arms, legs, ribs, and hips. These injuries can have long-term effects on a person’s mobility, range of motion, and quality of life.
Soft Tissue Injuries: Soft tissue injuries refer to damage to the body’s muscles, ligaments, and tendons. These injuries can be caused by the impact of the collision or by the pedestrian being thrown to the ground. Some common soft tissue injuries include sprains, strains, and bruises. While these injuries may not be as severe as others on this list, they can still cause significant pain and discomfort and may require medical treatment.
Internal Injuries: Internal injuries can occur when a pedestrian is hit by a car or other vehicle. These injuries can be difficult to detect and may not show up immediately after the accident. Some common internal injuries include damage to the organs, internal bleeding, and damage to the abdominal area. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
The long-term effects of these injuries can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s overall health. Some people may experience chronic pain, limited mobility, or other long-term complications that can affect their ability to work, care for themselves, or enjoy their daily lives.
What Should I Do if I’m Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
If you’re injured in a pedestrian accident, there are several important steps you should take to protect yourself and your legal rights. The first and most important step is to seek medical attention for your injuries. Even if you don’t think your injuries are serious, it’s important to get a professional medical evaluation as soon as possible. This will not only ensure that you receive appropriate medical treatment, but it will also document the extent and severity of your injuries, which can be important evidence in any legal claim you may file.
After seeking medical attention, it’s important to document the details of the accident as thoroughly as possible. This includes taking photos of the scene of the accident, gathering contact information from any witnesses, and getting the driver’s contact and insurance information. You should also report the accident to the police, who will file an accident report that can be important evidence in your legal claim.
It’s also important to avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than your medical providers, the police, and your personal injury attorney. This includes insurance adjusters and representatives from the at-fault driver’s insurance company, who may try to get you to make statements that could harm your legal claim.
Finally, you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney immediately. A skilled attorney can help you understand your legal rights and options, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and advocate for your interests in any legal proceedings.
Types of Compensation Available for Victims
If you are injured in a pedestrian accident in Washington Court House, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills: This includes current and future medical expenses related to the accident, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, and rehabilitation costs.
Lost wages: If you are unable to work as a result of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for the wages you would have earned.
Pain and suffering: This includes compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.
Property damage: If any of your personal property was damaged in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for the cost of repair or replacement.
How Kruger & Hodges Personal Injury Attorneys Can Help You
Kruger & Hodges Attorneys at Law is a pedestrian accident law firm serving Washington Court House, Ohio that may be able to assist you with your claim. Our pedestrian accident lawyers can estimate the value of your claim, identify negligent parties, fight to hold these parties accountable, and negotiate with negligent parties and insurers to help you obtain the settlement you may deserve under the law. Contact our Washington Court House law offices today for your free consultation.
