Lancaster Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Some of the most devastating motor vehicle collisions occur when drivers strike people who are on foot. Without any protective barriers between themselves and vehicles, pedestrians can suffer catastrophic harm when drivers fail to protect their safety. A moment of distraction for a driver, a failure to yield at a crosswalk, or speeding through a residential area can lead to a pedestrian accident. These accidents can result in permanent disabilities, chronic pain, emotional trauma, and other issues that can affect a victim's health and well-being.

When negligent drivers cause pedestrian accidents, victims wll need to understand their legal options. At Jerry D. Andrews, P.C., we work with pedestrians who have been injured in collisions in Lancaster, Texas. We can investigate the circumstances surrounding a collision, gather evidence demonstrating that a driver is responsible for a victim's injuries, and build a compelling case to help ensure that full compensation will be paid.

The Devastating Force of Collisions Between Vehicles and Pedestrians

The human body cannot withstand the force of being struck by a vehicle. Even low-speed collisions can cause serious harm, and the impact by a vehicle traveling at a higher speed may be fatal. Multiple types of injuries can occur when a pedestrian is struck, thrown to the ground, and potentially run over.

Pedestrians have no protection in a collision with a vehicle. The initial impact may occurs at the level of a person's leg or hip, and it may lead to broken bones or soft tissue injuries. The force of impact may throw a victim onto the hood or windshield of the vehicle, and a person may then fall to the pavement. Because there are multiple impact points, several types of injuries can occur, including head trauma, spinal damage, or internal injuries.

Catastrophic Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

After a pedestrian accidents, a person will usually need emergency medical treatment after being transported to a hospital in an ambulance. They may need to stay in a hospital for an extended period of time, and multiple surgeries may be required. Recovery periodscan be long, and years of rehabilitation may be required. Many victims never fully recover, and they may experience permanent limitations that could affect their employment, relationships, and daily activities.

Traumatic brain injuries can occur when a pedestrian strikes a vehicle or falls to the pavement. Mild traumatic brain injuries may cause headaches, dizziness, memory problems, and difficulty concentrating. Moderate or severe brain injuries can be even more serious, and they can result in permanent cognitive impairments, personality changes, seizures, and numerous other symptoms. Some victims may require lifelong care, and they may never regain the ability to live independently.

Spinal cord injuries can occur when the force of impact leads to fractured or dislocated vertebrae. Damage to the delicate nerves in the spinal cord can lead to paralysis in different parts of the body. Cervical spine injuries affecting the neck can cause quadriplegia, paralyzing all four limbs and sometimes requiring a ventilator for breathing. Thoracic and lumbar spine injuries may result in paraplegia, affecting the lower body. These injuries may require a person to use a wheelchair and other specialized medical equipment, and they may need ongoing treatment and assistance.

Bones can break due to the force of impact in a pedestrian accident. Leg fractures or hip fractures can lead to long-term mobility problems, chronic pain, and other health issues. Arm, wrist, and shoulder fractures can limit the types of activities or work a person will be able to perform while recovering. Skull fractures can cause brain injuries. Other fractures can lead to pain and mobility issues while affecting a person's quality of life.

Internal injuries can put a person's life at risk as organs rupture, blood vessels tear, and internal bleeding develops. The abdomen and chest contain vital organs that can be damaged due to blunt force trauma. Liver lacerations, spleen ruptures, kidney damage, and punctured lungs may require emergency surgery. Internal bleeding can leadto organ failure or death if it is not identified and treated quickly.

Pedestrian accident victims may suffer soft tissue injuries, including torn ligaments, damaged muscles, and deep lacerations. These injuries can cause a great deal of pain while limiting the types of activities that a person can perform. Knee injuries, shoulder injuries, or other joint injuries may require surgery and extensive physical therapy. Road rash can occur when a pedestrian hits the pavement, and it can cause serious damage to skin and underlying muscles.