Being struck by a car as a pedestrian is a serious event, often leading to severe physical trauma. The outcome is influenced by several factors, making each situation unique in its potential for survival and recovery.
Key Factors Influencing Survival
The chances of surviving a pedestrian-vehicle collision depend heavily on several factors, with vehicle speed at impact being the most significant. As speed increases, the risk of severe injury and fatality rises dramatically. For example, the risk of severe injury reaches 10% at 16 mph and 50% at 31 mph. The probability of death also escalates with speed, reaching 10% at 23 mph and 50% at 42 mph.
The type and size of the vehicle also influence injury severity. Larger vehicles like trucks, SUVs, and vans cause more severe injuries and higher pedestrian mortality rates than smaller cars. This is due to their greater mass and front-end design. The head, lower extremities, thorax, and pelvis are frequently injured areas, with head injuries being a concern due to both initial impact and secondary impact with the ground.
A pedestrian’s age and health also influence survival. Older pedestrians face a higher risk of severe injury or death at any given impact speed due to reduced bone density and diminished recovery capacity. The speed and quality of emergency medical response are crucial. Rapid medical attention improves survival and reduces the long-term impact of injuries.
Common Injuries and Their Severity
Pedestrian-vehicle accidents frequently result in severe injuries. Head injuries are common, including concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), skull fractures, and hematomas. These injuries can have lasting effects, from temporary cognitive impairment to permanent disability or death.
Spinal injuries, such as whiplash, herniated discs, and spinal cord damage, are frequent and often devastating. Spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis, altering a person’s life and requiring long-term care. Internal organ damage, including internal bleeding or ruptured organs, may occur without immediate external signs. These injuries are dangerous because they may not be immediately apparent, yet can become life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Fractures are common, often affecting bones in the legs, pelvis, arms, wrists, ribs, and collarbones. Their severity varies, from simple breaks to complex fractures that may require surgical intervention and lead to long-term mobility issues. Soft tissue injuries like lacerations, contusions, sprains, strains, and road rash are also prevalent. Some heal quickly, while others result in chronic pain, scarring, or disfigurement, requiring ongoing therapy.
Immediate Actions After an Incident
After a pedestrian-vehicle incident, prompt actions are crucial for the injured person’s well-being. The first step is to call emergency medical services by dialing 911. State that a pedestrian has been hit to ensure the appropriate response.
Once emergency services are contacted, assess the scene’s safety. If the injured pedestrian is conscious and can move without worsening injuries, they should try to reach a safer location away from traffic. Do not move an injured person unless they are in immediate danger, as this could worsen spinal or other severe injuries. If safe, administer basic first aid, such as controlling visible bleeding, until paramedics arrive.
The injured pedestrian or a bystander should remain at the scene until emergency personnel and police arrive. While waiting, avoid making statements that admit fault or apologize, as these could be used against them. Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical attention immediately. Some serious internal injuries may not present symptoms right away but could become life-threatening if left untreated.
Reducing the Risk of Pedestrian Accidents
Minimizing pedestrian accident risk involves vigilance and safety practices. Increasing visibility, especially in low-light conditions, is an effective preventative measure. Wearing bright or reflective clothing enhances a pedestrian’s visibility to drivers, particularly at night. Using a flashlight or reflective accessories further increases noticeability.
Pedestrians should use designated crosswalks and obey traffic signals. Crossing at marked crosswalks provides a safer location, and adhering to signals aligns movement with traffic flow. If sidewalks are available, walk on them; otherwise, walk facing oncoming traffic and as far from the roadway as possible.
Avoiding distractions is crucial. Engaging with cell phones, listening to loud music, or other activities that divert attention can impair awareness of approaching vehicles. Maintain full awareness by actively looking both ways before crossing and observing traffic. Make eye contact with drivers to ensure they have seen you. Remain cautious near parked cars and driveways, as drivers may not see pedestrians emerging or backing out.