What are the Most Common Pedestrian Injuries in Memphis?
Pedestrians are vulnerable to accidents with negligent drivers. By being aware of the injuries that can result from accidents and staying safe, pedestrians can be protected from accidents.
Some of the typical pedestrian accident injuries we see in Memphis include:
Soft Tissues Injuries
Dozens of soft tissue injuries can occur because of pedestrian accidents. Bruises, lacerations, tears, dislocations, and sprains are all types of soft tissue injuries that can keep victims from engaging in everyday activities. This type of accident can result in several different injuries, including contusions and strains. Soft tissue injuries tend to cause more pain and discomfort than other pedestrian injury accidents. According to recent studies, soft tissue injuries can result in long-term issues. Therefore, it is always essential for people injured in a pedestrian accident to seek medical attention to avoid long-term problems.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Pedestrian accidents can lead to life-changing injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, and unfortunately, traumatic brain injuries are common in these types of collisions. A traumatic brain injury, or TBI, can take many forms, from mild concussions to severe head or spinal injuries. Traumatic brain injuries are caused by trauma from outside the skull, usually in the form of a violent blow to the head or body. These traumas often occur in motor vehicle accidents, accounting for about 60% of all TBIs. While some traumatic brain injuries can have minor symptoms, others can have severe long-term medical consequences. The effects of such injuries aren’t always visible but can lead to long-term health complications for the victim.
Spinal Injuries
In pedestrian accidents, thousands of people sustain serious injuries like spinal cord injuries every year. Like any major injury, a spinal cord injury can be caused by force or trauma. Unlike a fractured bone or dislocated joint, spinal cord damage can have devastating effects. This type of injury is severe and can result in paralysis or death. People who do survive these types of injuries typically require long-term care and rehabilitation.
Fracture
A bone fracture is an injury that occurs when the physical force exerted on a bone is stronger than the bone itself. Bone fractures are common in pedestrian accidents and can lead to permanent injuries. With proper treatment, victims can return to their everyday lives. However, if left untreated, some bone fracture injuries can lead to lifelong pain and medical problems that may interfere with your well-being and quality of life.
Emotional Trauma
Even if physical injuries do not occur, being struck by a vehicle is a traumatic experience. Individuals struck while walking may suffer permanent emotional trauma and have difficulty coping with the aftermath. Many people who have been involved in pedestrian accidents may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder or other forms of emotional trauma. They need the help of professionals to get back on their feet.
Other severe injuries that pedestrians suffer in accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Tendon and ligament damage
- Internal organ damage
- Head and neck injuries
- Amputation
