Without the protection of a metal frame, airbags, or seat belts, pedestrians struck by vehicles absorb the full force of impact. As a result, injuries sustained in pedestrian crashes are often catastrophic and potentially life-threatening. Below, we explore common injuries pedestrians face after a car collision and what to do in the critical moments that follow.
What Injuries Are Most Common?
The severity of pedestrian injuries often depends on the speed of the vehicle and the point of impact. Some of the most frequently reported injuries include:
Head and Brain Trauma: Pedestrians may suffer concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even a seemingly mild blow to the head can result in lingering symptoms such as memory problems, mood changes, and chronic headaches.
Fractures: Legs, ankles, hips, wrists, and knees are particularly vulnerable. These bones may break on impact or during the fall that follows.
Spinal Cord Injuries: A sudden impact can fracture vertebrae or damage the spinal cord, sometimes resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
Soft Tissue Damage: Sprains, deep lacerations, bruises, and torn ligaments may not seem life-threatening but can lead to long-term complications, including permanent mobility issues or, in extreme cases, amputation.
When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?
You should always seek medical attention after being struck by a vehicle. Call 911 immediately if you experience:
Loss of consciousness, disorientation, or intense headache.
Difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Inability to move a limb or severe localized pain.
Numbness, swelling, or tingling in the abdomen or extremities.
Even if you feel stable, see a doctor within 48 hours. Certain injuries—like internal bleeding or brain trauma—may not cause symptoms right away but can worsen without prompt treatment.
Why Is Every Minute Critical After a Crash?
In serious collisions, time is of the essence. According to the New Jersey Department of Health, most trauma-related deaths occur before a patient reaches the hospital. Emergency response times in Monmouth County average around seven minutes, but traffic and location can cause delays. Calling 911 immediately and requesting transport to the nearest Level I trauma center can significantly improve survival and recovery outcomes.
How Do Doctors Check for Hidden Injuries?
To diagnose visible and internal injuries, medical professionals often perform:
Full-Body Examination: Paramedics and ER physicians check for bruises, swelling, open wounds, and bone deformities.
Neurological Evaluation: Tests of reflexes, coordination, and cognition help identify brain or spinal trauma.
Imaging Scans: X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs detect internal bleeding, fractures, and soft-tissue damage.
FAST Ultrasound: A focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) is used at the bedside to quickly identify bleeding in the abdomen.
What Long-Term Issues Can Result?
While many surface wounds heal in a few weeks, more serious injuries can lead to extended recovery periods:
Fractures may take six to eight weeks to heal.
TBIs and spinal injuries often require months of rehabilitation.
Chronic pain, reduced mobility, and permanent scarring are common.
Psychological effects—such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD—can linger for years.
Additionally, the financial burden of medical expenses, lost income, and long-term therapy often compounds the physical and emotional toll of the crash.
Get Legal Support From the Monmouth County Pedestrian Accident Lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P.
If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, the experienced Monmouth County pedestrian accident lawyers at Rebenack Aronow & Mascolo L.L.P. are here to help. Call us at 732-247-3600or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. We have offices in New Brunswick, Somerville, and Manalapan, New Jersey, and we proudly represent clients throughout Middlesex County, Monmouth County, and Somerset County.
