If you are walking and are hit by a vehicle, there is a pretty solid chance that you will end up with injuries or that it could actually be fatal. When two vehicles crash, the drivers and passengers are protected by how the car wraps around them and the safety belts and airbags inside. Pedestrians are more likely to sustain long-lasting injuries than those inside a car or truck.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a pedestrian accident in Summerville, contact a Summerville pedestrian accident attorney to see what we can do for you. Our Summerville personal injury lawyers have experience navigating the legalities of such an accident.
Pedestrian Accidents Defined
Pedestrian accidents occur when a motor vehicle hits a person who is traveling on foot. They can involve vehicles like cars, trucks, vans, motorcycles, utility vehicles, SUVs, and delivery vehicles. Pedestrian accidents may happen on public or private streets, on sidewalks, or on trails.
If a motor vehicle can travel in an area, the potential is there for a pedestrian accident to occur. If you are hurt in a pedestrian accident in Summerville, SC, contact the team at Shelly Leeke Law Firm for help.
Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Summerville
The Summerville area is lovely and has some beautiful places to enjoy a walk. But roadways can be dangerous places in the best of situations. Road hazards can sometimes cause problems for drivers, but even on a road with no obstacles, drivers can make mistakes and harm those on foot.
Often pedestrian accidents happen because of the following reasons:
- Number one on the list is distracted driving. It is the most common reason for most accidents.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another culprit in pedestrian accidents.
- Fatigued drivers also cause accidents with pedestrians and other vehicles. Never drive while drowsy.
- Exceeding the speed limit or reckless driving can also cause problems for those on foot.
- Drivers without experience create hazards for pedestrians.
- Pedestrians can be hit by cars that fail to stop for traffic lights and signs.
- When drivers are changing lanes or turning, they can fail to note the pedestrian nearby, and this can end terribly.
- Those who do not engage their turn signals properly can end up hitting unknowing pedestrians.
- By ignoring traffic directions, drivers may jeopardize the safety of walkers.
- Driving too fast and recklessly through construction sites can be catastrophic for employees.
- Driving conditions can be problematic for pedestrians if the weather becomes rough. Snow and Ice are particularly difficult to deal with.
- Night driving can make it more difficult to see pedestrians.
- Defective vehicles, or vehicles that malfunction can cause pedestrian accidents.
- If the head and taillights are broken or are not functioning properly, it can cause confusion that injures a pedestrian.
Injuries Sustained by Pedestrians in Accidents with Motor Vehicles
Many times, pedestrians end up with much more severe injuries than those who are wrapped in the protection of a vehicle. Their chances of permanent disability or death are much greater. Below are some of the injuries often sustained by pedestrians who find themselves in an accident with a motor vehicle.
Damage to Soft Tissue
Contusions, muscle strains, strains and tears, dislocations, lacerations, and contusions can all be considered soft tissue damage. Soft tissue injuries have the potential to heal with minimal downtime, scarring, or damage. They can become infected, though, and this can lead to scarring and challenging long-term effects if treatment is ignored.
Broken Bones
Fractures and bone breaks, similar to soft tissue damage, are very common injuries for pedestrians who are in accidents. Typical breaks and fractures seen on pedestrian accident victims are as follows:
- Wrists
- Hands
- Arms
- Collarbones
- Legs
- Backs
- Ribs
Usually, breaks can be treated. However, amputation could be necessary if they happen along with a soft tissue injury.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Among the most severe injuries incurred in pedestrian accidents are traumatic brain injuries. These can be minor but can also be fatal. Listed below are some of the signs and side effects from TBIs.
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Mood swings
- Depression and anxiety
- Internal bleeding
- Fatigue
TBIs are fairly common and can present in various ways. If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, it is imperative that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. An untreated TBI can cause irreversible brain damage if not death.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Another traumatic injury often seen in pedestrian accidents is spinal cord injuries. This means that one or more of the vertebrae which make up the spinal cord and column have been harmed because of the impact of the accident. Spinal cord injuries can mean a lot of use of a body area, and paralysis or death can occur.
These injuries are one of the most life-altering and expensive injuries one can sustain.
Damages You May Be Entitled to Receive
If you are hurt in a pedestrian accident, you could be eligible to receive economic as well as non-economic damages. Speak to your Summerville pedestrian accident lawyer about your situation to determine the damages that you are entitled to receive.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are typically easiest to determine the value of since they are tied to tangible costs. Some examples are listed below:
- Medical Costs
- Therapy and Follow-up Care
- Property Damage, like a telephone or whatever the walker was carrying
- Loss of income
- Prescription costs
- Mobility devices
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are less tangible and more difficult to calculate but in no way less important. Your pedestrian accident lawyer in Summerville can help you to calculate what you are entitled to receive. Here are some examples of non-economic damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional anguish
Reach Out Today for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been hurt by a motor vehicle while on foot, reach out today. A pedestrian accident attorney in Summerville, SC, with the Shelly Leeke Law Firm, is ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We will make sure your rights are protected as we seek the maximum compensation available to you.
