What Injuries Most Commonly Impact Pedestrians in California?

Whether you are walking to a local supermarket or taking your dog out for a walk, the last thing you expect is to sustain injuries that severely impact your life. For many pedestrians, however, this is an unfortunate reality. As such, understanding the most common hazards and injuries you can encounter as a pedestrian is crucial to taking the correct steps following an accident. If you have sustained injuries, keep reading to learn more about your legal rights and the importance of working with our Irvine personal injury lawyers to explore your options.

What Pedestrian Injuries Are Most Common?

Unfortunately, there are several hazards that can impact pedestrians in California, as these accidents are on the rise. Many cities and towns are becoming increasingly car-centered, making it less safe for pedestrians to travel. As such, one of the biggest hazards pedestrians can face is vehicles. In most instances, the vehicle involved is generally at fault, as pedestrians almost always have the right of way. However, driver negligence, like distractions or aggressive driving, can lead to a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian. These accidents are severe and can result in injuries like traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal cord damage, internal organ damage, and broken bones.

Vehicles are not the only hazard pedestrians can encounter, however. Many accidents are caused by unsafe property conditions that can lead to slips, trips, and falls when utilizing walkways or sidewalks. Property owners are generally responsible for ensuring their premises are safe for those passing by, meaning hazards like debris, cords, or broken slabs are their responsibility to remedy. A pedestrian who trips and falls over these hazards can sustain bone fractures, soft tissue damage, lacerations, head and facial injuries, and even dental damage if they fall forward.

What Steps Should I Take Following an Accident?

If you are involved in an accident as a pedestrian, it is imperative to understand the rights you have in these circumstances. Generally, the most important thing you can do is call the police to report the accident and request medical attention. The police can arrive at the scene to gather information and compile a report while the emergency medical technicians assess and treat your injuries.

Following the accident, if you are physically able to, you should gather as much information as possible, including contact information for the other parties involved, whether that be the driver or a homeowner, as well as photos and videos of the accident scene. If there were witnesses, you should obtain their contact information so they can provide witness statements later.

The most important thing you can do following an accident is connect with a seasoned personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options regarding these matters. Unfortunately, many pedestrians who are injured due to the negligence of others believe these are just unfortunate accidents. However, it is imperative to understand that when you are injured due to the negligent actions of others, you can seek compensation for the damages inflicted.

Sustaining an injury caused by another person’s negligent action is incredibly frustrating, and the fight for justice can be overwhelming, which is why it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney from California Personal Injury Law Firm, APC, to discuss your circumstances. Our firm will explore all possible avenues to fight for you and your best interests. Contact us today to learn how we may be able to assist you with these matters.