Being hit by a car is a jarring and disorienting event. The sudden impact often triggers physical and emotional responses, leaving individuals in shock. Navigating the aftermath requires understanding the physical trauma, immediate actions, medical care, and the legal and financial landscape. This article provides insights into what happens when a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle.
The Immediate Physical Impact
When a pedestrian is struck by a car, the body experiences immense forces, leading to blunt force trauma. This injury results from a sudden impact where significant force is absorbed by the body without penetrating the skin. The severity of injuries depends on factors such as the vehicle’s speed, the angle of impact, and the pedestrian’s physical condition.
A vehicle collision involves a rapid transfer of kinetic energy. The pedestrian’s body undergoes sudden deceleration, rapidly slowing down from its initial speed. This abrupt change in momentum can cause internal organs to collide with the skeletal structure, leading to injuries like internal bleeding or organ damage, even without external visible wounds.
The body’s immediate physiological response is often an adrenaline surge, a “fight or flight” reaction. This temporarily numbs pain and increases alertness. This heightened state can mask the true extent of injuries, which may not become apparent until hours or even days after the incident when the adrenaline subsides.
Crucial Steps at the Scene
Immediately after being struck by a car, ensuring safety is the first priority. If physically able and safe, move out of the path of traffic to prevent further injury. Remaining calm, though challenging, helps in making clear decisions.
Promptly call emergency services by dialing 911 to request both medical assistance and law enforcement. Even if injuries seem minor, medical professionals should assess the situation at the scene, as some severe injuries may not be immediately obvious.
While waiting for authorities, if possible, gather information:
- The driver’s full name, contact details, vehicle make, model, license plate number, and insurance information.
- Photographs or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, visible injuries, road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals.
- Contact information from any eyewitnesses who observed the incident, as their statements can provide valuable evidence.
During this time, avoid making statements that admit fault or apologize for the accident, as these can be used against you later.
Medical Evaluation and Treatment
Seeking immediate medical attention is important following a pedestrian accident, regardless of how minor injuries may seem. The adrenaline rush experienced at the scene can mask pain and the true extent of internal injuries, which may not manifest until hours or even days later. A comprehensive medical evaluation can identify hidden injuries and creates an official record of your condition after the incident.
Common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents include:
- Head trauma, such as concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries, resulting from the head striking the vehicle or ground.
- Whiplash, a common neck injury, occurs from the rapid back-and-forth movement of the head and neck during impact.
- Fractures of bones in the legs, arms, ribs, or pelvis are also frequent due to the direct force of the vehicle.
- Soft tissue injuries, encompassing sprains, strains, and tears of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, can cause significant pain and limit mobility.
- Internal injuries, such as internal bleeding or damage to organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys, can be life-threatening and require immediate medical intervention.
The medical evaluation typically begins with an emergency room visit or an urgent care clinic. Doctors assess vital signs, perform physical examinations, and order diagnostic imaging tests. X-rays identify bone fractures. CT scans provide detailed images to detect internal injuries or bleeding. MRIs evaluate soft tissues like muscles, ligaments, and tendons, revealing injuries not visible on X-rays or CT scans.
Treatment varies based on the injury’s nature and severity, ranging from rest, medication, and physical therapy for soft tissue injuries and fractures, to surgical intervention for severe fractures or internal organ damage. Documenting all medical care, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, therapies, and follow-up appointments, is important for both recovery and any potential legal claims.
Navigating Legal and Financial Considerations
After attending to immediate safety and medical needs, understanding the legal and financial aspects of being hit by a car becomes the next step. Reporting the accident to the police is generally necessary, especially if there are injuries or significant property damage. The police will create an official accident report, which serves as a neutral, third-party account of the incident, including details like time, location, involved parties, and initial observations. This report is often a foundational piece of evidence for insurance claims and potential lawsuits.
Filing an insurance claim typically involves notifying the at-fault driver’s insurance company. If the driver is found negligent, their liability insurance is generally the primary source of compensation for the pedestrian’s damages. Pedestrians may also be able to use their own auto insurance policies, such as Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or uninsured/underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage, if applicable. PIP coverage can cover initial medical expenses regardless of fault, while UIM coverage can provide additional compensation if the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient or non-existent.
The role of legal counsel, such as a personal injury attorney, often becomes important in navigating these complexities. An attorney can help investigate the accident, gather evidence like witness statements and surveillance footage, and assess liability. They can also negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to seek compensation for various damages.
These damages can include economic losses, such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages due to inability to work. Non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, may also be pursued. Understanding the relevant state laws, including personal injury statutes of limitations, is also important. These statutes set deadlines for filing a lawsuit, which can range from one to three years from the date of the accident, depending on the state. Failing to file within this timeframe can result in losing the right to pursue compensation.