Understanding Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries: A Comprehensive Guide for Attorneys
- 25 Oct, 2024
Introduction
Pedestrian accidents are one of the various safety concerns in cities and suburbs within the United States. With the ever-growing number of vehicles, attorneys working for the victims may want to see some of the common pedestrian accident injuries. This article focuses on the most common pedestrian accident injuries, medical record review services, and the best practices for lawyers in such situations
The Landscape of Pedestrian Accidents in the U.S.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has painted a disturbing picture of the growth in pedestrian deaths as it has increased over the past ten years; the administration reported 7,388 pedestrians killed in motor-car traffic crashes in 2021 alone. Knowing the different kinds of pedestrian accident injuries can assist lawyers when formulating cases for these clients.
Common Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Overview
These kinds of injuries, which might be considered pretty mild under ordinary circumstances, often evolve to be devastating, such as in the case of pedestrian collisions, wherein the pedestrian is the one who mostly bears the brunt. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) head the list.
Key Points
· Symptoms: Headaches, confusion, dizziness, and memory loss.
· Long-term Effects: Several patients also suffer through some mild emotional tinge, visible learning difficulty of some sort, and an overall compromised physical movement.
2. Fractures
Overview
If, on the surface, the injuries sustained after a transgression are soft in format, the next in line would definitely be fractures. Fractures are also considered to be the leading consequence of pedestrian accidents which majorly happen in the lower extremities region, causing uncomfortable, even unbearable pain to the patient.
Key Points
· Common Locations: Legs, arms, and pelvis.
· Treatment: May require surgery, rehabilitation, and long recovery times.
3. Soft Tissue Injuries
Overview
Sprain, compression of soft tissues, and tearing of ligaments are common in people who were hit by a car or knocked down.
Key Points
· Symptoms: Pain, swelling, and bruising.
· Recovery: Advance treatment through physical therapy is normally needed, and it may become chronic if measures are not taken in a timely manner.
4. Spinal Cord Injuries
Overview
This type of injury can cause an incapacity which can be indefinite and change the life of the individual in a negative manner in a significant way.
Key Points
· Severity: Can range from minor to complete paralysis.
· Long-term Care: An individual suffering from such extreme conditions needs in many cases to go through an extended medical procedure and further treatment which passes for a long time.
5. Internal Injuries
Overview
Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding, can occur without immediate symptoms.
Key Points
· Diagnosis: Many cases would include an accurately done CT or MRI scan.
· Treatment: Surgery and long-term medical follow-up may be required in some cases.
The Role of Medical Record Review in Pedestrian Accident Cases
Importance for Attorneys
Reviewing a patient’s medical records has become a necessary process enabling attorneys to appraise on how serious their clients’ injuries are. It consists of medical record review and assessment that bears testimonials of the patient’s treatment course, prognosis as well as likely outcomes of their injuries years later.
How We Assist Attorneys
1. Thorough Analysis: In describing our services, we explain that, at our law firm, we always thoroughly examine medical files to obtain the relevant information corresponding to your case.
2. Expert Testimony: Our medical sector professionals are in a position to offer expert witnesses with respect to the medical issues of pedestrian accidents’ injuries.
3. Simple Reports: We create analytic reports that display the issues under investigation clearly and in an easily readable form for the client and attorney..
Current Statistics and Trends (2024)
Recent data from the NHTSA indicates that pedestrian fatalities have increased by 5% in 2023 compared to the previous year. This rise underscores the importance of understanding pedestrian accident injuries and their impact on victims.
Addressing Common Questions
What Should Victims Do Immediately After an Accident?
Victims should seek medical attention promptly, even if they feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
How Can Attorneys Prove Liability in Pedestrian Accident Cases?
Proving liability often requires gathering evidence such as police reports, eyewitness accounts, and medical records to establish the circumstances of the accident.
What Compensation Can Victims Expect?
Compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The amount varies based on the severity of injuries and the specifics of each case.
Case Studies
Case Study 1: Jane Doe vs. City of Springfield
Overview
Jane Doe was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street at a marked crosswalk.
Challenges
The defense argued that Jane was not paying attention.
Solutions
Our medical record review revealed a history of head trauma, supporting the claim that her cognitive function was impaired at the time of the accident.
Case Study 2: John Smith vs. ABC Trucking Company
Overview
John Smith, a pedestrian, was hit by a delivery truck while waiting at a bus stop.
Challenges
The defense claimed that John was partially responsible for the accident.
Solutions
Our expert testimony highlighted the severity of John's spinal cord injury, demonstrating the truck driver's negligence.
Conclusion
Understanding common pedestrian accident injuries is crucial for attorneys representing victims of these accidents. By leveraging medical record review services, attorneys can build stronger cases and secure fair compensation for their clients. As a medical record review company, we are committed to providing expert analysis and support to attorneys in the United States.
