Unfortunately, Texas ranks as one of the highest states in the nation for pedestrian fatalities. In 2017, Texas, along with California, Florida, New York, and Arizona, comprised 43% of all pedestrian fatalities for the first six months of the year. However, these five states only make up 30 percent of the entire country’s population.
Even if someone doesn’t die in a pedestrian accident, they likely sustained serious to catastrophic injuries. If you or a loved one were a pedestrian who was injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s important to speak with an Austin pedestrian accident attorney right away.
Common Injuries in Austin Pedestrian Accidents
Injuries in pedestrian accidents can vary based on the circumstances and severity of the impact. Here are some of the more common injuries seen in pedestrian versus vehicle accidents.
- Bone Fractures — Broken bones are among the most common injuries sustained in a pedestrian accident due to the physical force of the vehicle against the victim’s body.
- Lacerations and Bruises — Even in a minor pedestrian incident, someone can have contusions and lacerations, especially if he or she was knocked to the ground when struck by the vehicle.
- Internal Injuries — It’s not uncommon to see internal injuries in a pedestrian accident as well. This is why it’s important to see a doctor after the accident, even if it doesn’t appear you are injured. You could have internal bleeding, organ damage, fractured ribs, brain bleed, and more. If the vehicle tears or dislocates an internal organ, it can result in a surgery that requires hours to correct.
- Head Trauma — Even a minor fall to the ground could result in a concussion with a risk of hematoma. In more serious accidents, any time the brain is involved, it could be very serious. Even minor traumatic brain injuries need to be treated with care to watch for long term risks and complications.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — Spinal cord injuries are typically life-changing and can often result in paralysis. Even a small amount of damage can result in permanent damage. When the spinal cord is injured, it means nerves no longer flow through the damaged area, cutting off information between the brain and affected parts of the body.
- Pelvic Injuries — There are several different types of pelvic fractures that can occur, and pedestrians are at greater risk for a fracture, especially due to the hood design of certain vehicles when they make impact.
- Wrongful Death — In the most severe accidents, a pedestrian hit by a vehicle could either die instantly or pass away shortly thereafter due to injuries sustained in the crash. In this case, certain family members and/or the estate might have grounds to bring a wrongful death claim against the negligent party.
Contact an Austin Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Speaking with an experienced Austin pedestrian accident attorney is important when you have been injured in an accident. Robert Littlefield Buford III, Attorney at Law understands the traumatic time you are likely experiencing and can help get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 512-710-0803 to schedule an initial consultation.
