Alpharetta Pedestrian Accident Injuries: What to Know

Common Injuries in Alpharetta Pedestrian Accident Cases

A pedestrian accident can change your life in an instant. Walking should be a safe activity, but negligent drivers in areas like Alpharetta, Georgia, put pedestrians at risk every day. When a vehicle strikes a pedestrian, the resulting injuries are often severe. Are you aware of the specific types of injuries that frequently occur and what legal options are available to you?

Head Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Head injuries are tragically common in pedestrian accidents. The impact of a vehicle, even at relatively low speeds, can cause a pedestrian to strike their head on the vehicle, the pavement, or other objects. These injuries range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

A concussion is a mild TBI that can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory problems. While many people recover fully from a concussion, some experience long-term symptoms. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are more severe and can result in permanent cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments. Symptoms of a TBI can include:

• Loss of consciousness
• Seizures
• Difficulty with speech and language
• Changes in personality
• Motor skill impairments

The severity of a head injury often dictates the long-term care needed. A person with a severe TBI might require ongoing rehabilitation, therapy, and even 24-hour care. This can lead to significant financial burdens for the injured person and their family.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs contribute to approximately 30% of all injury-related deaths in the United States.

Spinal Cord Injuries After Being Struck by a Car

Spinal cord injuries are another devastating consequence of pedestrian accidents. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that carries messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other neurological problems.

The location and severity of the spinal cord injury determine the extent of the resulting impairment. Injuries to the upper spinal cord (closer to the neck) can cause quadriplegia, which is paralysis of all four limbs. Injuries to the lower spinal cord (closer to the lower back) can cause paraplegia, which is paralysis of the lower body.

In addition to paralysis, spinal cord injuries can also cause:

• Chronic pain
• Bowel and bladder dysfunction
• Sexual dysfunction
• Respiratory problems

The cost of treating and managing a spinal cord injury can be astronomical. People with spinal cord injuries often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and assistive devices such as wheelchairs and braces. According to the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, the first-year expenses for spinal cord injury can range from $350,000 to over $1 million, depending on the severity. Subsequent years can cost tens of thousands of dollars annually.

Bone Fractures Sustained in Pedestrian Collisions

Bone fractures are exceedingly common in pedestrian collisions. The force of impact from a vehicle can cause bones to break in multiple locations. Common fracture sites include the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis.

Leg fractures are particularly prevalent in pedestrian accidents due to the direct impact of the vehicle. These fractures can range from simple breaks to complex, comminuted fractures that require surgery to repair. Arm fractures often occur when pedestrians instinctively try to brace themselves during a collision.

Rib fractures can result from the force of impact on the torso. These fractures can be extremely painful and can lead to complications such as punctured lungs. Pelvic fractures are serious injuries that can cause internal bleeding and damage to internal organs.

Treatment for bone fractures can involve casting, surgery, and physical therapy. Recovery can take months or even years, and some people may experience long-term pain and disability.

Soft Tissue Injuries After a Pedestrian Incident

While not always immediately apparent, soft tissue injuries are very common in pedestrian accidents. These injuries affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Common examples include sprains, strains, bruises, and whiplash.

Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn. Strains occur when muscles or tendons are stretched or torn. Bruises are caused by broken blood vessels under the skin. Whiplash is a neck injury that occurs when the head is suddenly jerked back and forth.

Although soft tissue injuries may not seem as serious as bone fractures or TBIs, they can still cause significant pain and disability. They can limit a person’s ability to work, participate in recreational activities, and perform daily tasks. Furthermore, some soft tissue injuries, such as whiplash, can lead to chronic pain and headaches.

Based on our firm’s experience handling numerous pedestrian accident cases in Alpharetta, we’ve observed that the long-term effects of soft tissue injuries are often underestimated by insurance companies, leading to inadequate settlements.

Internal Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Internal injuries are often life-threatening consequences of pedestrian accidents. The force of impact can damage internal organs, causing bleeding, bruising, and other complications. Common internal injuries include damage to the spleen, liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Damage to the spleen can cause internal bleeding and require surgery to remove the spleen. Liver damage can also cause internal bleeding and may lead to liver failure. Kidney damage can impair kidney function and may require dialysis. Lung damage can cause difficulty breathing and may lead to respiratory failure.

Internal injuries are often difficult to diagnose immediately after an accident. Symptoms may not appear for hours or even days, and some internal injuries can be fatal if left untreated. It’s crucial to seek immediate medical attention after a pedestrian accident, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.

Diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans and MRIs, is often necessary to identify internal injuries. Treatment may involve surgery, medication, and other supportive care.

Seeking Legal Help After a Pedestrian Accident in Alpharetta

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Alpharetta, Georgia, it’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and options, and can fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. Contacting a lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your interests are protected.

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident is overwhelming, but understanding the common injuries and your legal options is the first step towards recovery. From head trauma and spinal damage to fractures and internal complications, the physical and financial burden can be immense. Seeking immediate medical attention and consulting with a legal professional are vital steps. Armed with knowledge and the right support, you can pursue the compensation you deserve and rebuild your life. Don’t delay – reach out for help today.