Hit by a Car as Pedestrian

When a pedestrian is hit by a car, the impact can cause serious injuries. The first contact typically occurs between the bumper of the car and the leg or knee-joint area of the pedestrian, followed by thigh-to-bonnet edge contact. The lower extremity of the body is then accelerated forwards, while the upper body is rotated and accelerated relative to the car.

As a result of the impact, the pelvis and thorax are struck by the bonnet edge and top, respectively. The head can also hit the bonnet or windscreen at a velocity that is at or close to that of the striking car. The force of the collision can cause the victim to fall to the ground, leading to additional injuries.

The speed of the vehicle is an important factor in pedestrian accidents because of the greater force involved at high speeds. However, even at low speeds, serious injuries can occur.

Pedestrian accidents can occur anywhere, but some locations are more prone to these incidents than others. The most common locations for pedestrian accidents include intersections, crosswalks, and areas with high pedestrian traffic, such as downtown areas or near schools. Here are common examples of pedestrian accidents:

• Distracted driving accidents where drivers fail to see pedestrians in their path.
• Right-turn or left-turn accidents where a car making a turn hits a pedestrian crossing the street.
• Accidents at crosswalks when drivers fail to yield the right of way or fail to see pedestrians in their path.
• "Back over" accidents where a car backing up hits a pedestrian, often in parking lots or driveways.
• Alcohol or drug impaired driving, drunk driving.

Speed is a critical factor in pedestrian-car accidents. At speeds of 20 mph or slower, the severe injury rate is only 5 percent. At faster speeds, motorists are less likely to see pedestrians, and they have less time to stop to avoid hitting them. At speeds of 42 mph or faster, there is a more than 50 percent chance a pedestrian will sustain a severe or life-threatening injury, according to an AAA study.

Common types of pedestrian injuries include:

• Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
• Broken bones, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs.
• Spinal cord injuries, which can result in paralysis or partial paralysis.
• Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding.
• Cuts, bruises, and other soft tissue injuries.
• Psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression.

Injured accident victims are entitled to compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Some victims collect tens of thousands of dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages. Others recover million-dollar settlements. An experienced pedestrian accident attorney can calculate a compensation package that places the highest value on their client's health and comfort and fight relentlessly for results.

Pedestrians who suffer serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries, are likely to receive larger settlements than those who suffer minor injuries, such as cuts and bruises. In addition to the seriousness of the injuries, the victim's prognosis for a full recovery will also be taken into consideration. If the victim is expected to make a full recovery, their settlement may be lower than if they are expected to suffer long-term or permanent disabilities.

If you were hit by a car, trying to negotiate with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming, stressful, and may result in a settlement offer that does not fairly compensate you for your injuries and losses. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can guide you through the process, protect your legal rights, and help you pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car, don't wait to get legal help. Contact an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Remember, these lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means you don't pay unless they win your case. Your focus should be on your recovery, not jumping through hoops for the insurance company. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help you take the necessary steps to move your case forward with confidence. Contact a trusted lawyer in your area to schedule a free consultation today.