Common Broken Bones in Pedestrian Accidents

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Despite efforts that Seattle makes to improve pedestrian safety in the city – including the Seattle Department of Transportation Pedestrian Program – pedestrian accidents still occur. They can cause serious injuries that have long-lasting effects on the accident victim and may create financial burden because of the medical bills and lost wages that result.

Broken bones are a common type of injury in pedestrian accidents. Researchers at the University of Arizona reviewed injuries suffered by 115 pedestrians who were hit by cars and compiled the following statistical data. The results show multiple types of bone fractures in pedestrian-motor vehicle accidents. The study was published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma in 1992.

The study specifically observed fracture patterns in pedestrians involved in motor-vehicle accidents.

  • Thirty-nine of the 115 patients sustained tibia-fibula fractures. This was the most common fracture in the study group.
  • Pelvic fractures affected 35 of the pedestrians in the group, placing this as the second most common fracture.
  • The third most common fracture was a femur fracture which was experienced by 31 of the patients in the study.
  • Long-bone fractures were deemed to be a result of direct blows, while fractures of the pelvis seemed to occur with lateral-compressive blows.

 

Other common types of broken bones in pedestrian-auto accidents include the ribs, arms and hips. Bone fractures can require extensive treatments and long-term recovery. The fracture may require setting, a cast or brace, and more. Some patients require pain medication while recovering. All of this can create serious financial burden that victims may pursue in an insurance claim or lawsuit.

What to Do if You Suffered Broken Bones in a Pedestrian Accident

It’s important to understand what to do after you’ve been struck by a car. You will need to be proactive if you want to recover all damages you suffered as a result of your accident. If you are conscious and able to react calmly at the scene, first call 911 and request an officer’s presence at the location of the accident.

If you suffered broken bones in the accident, you may be unable to collect evidence at the scene. Work with police and medical personnel to retrieve important documentation of the accident from them. Police reports are typically available within days of an incident, and your medical records will contain documentation regarding your injuries and the circumstances surrounding your medical treatment.

You should provide all pertinent information to an attorney you choose to work on your case. Find an attorney familiar with pedestrian accidents. Your attorney will help you organize your documentation and evidence and will file your claim with the responsible party’s insurance company. The attorney will handle any defenses presented by the driver and will also be able to file a civil suit if necessary.

Call Max Meyers for Help Recovering Damages Related to Broken Bones

Using an attorney to help you navigate the claims process is advisable, especially if your injuries are severe. Having a professional in your corner will allow you to focus more on recovering from bone fractures you suffered in the accident. Your attorney will act as your advocate and can handle complex legal issues that might arise during serious accident cases. He or she will protect your interests at all times.

If you suffered broken bones in a pedestrian accident and you need legal representation, Max Meyers Law can help. Call us today at 425-399-7000 or use our online contact form to schedule your consultation with an attorney.

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Max is a Kirkland personal injury attorney handling cases in Seattle, King County & surrounding in WA State.