Hit By A Vehicle? What You Should Know About Compensation

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Pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents are different from other types of accidents because they typically involve a vulnerable pedestrian who is struck by a much larger and more powerful vehicle. This can result in serious injuries or even fatalities, even at relatively low speeds. Some of the factors that make pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents different are discussed below.  

Pedestrian vs. Vehicle Accidents

Severity of injuries: Pedestrians are much more vulnerable to injury than occupants of vehicles, due to the lack of protection. Even at low speeds, a collision between a pedestrian and a vehicle can result in serious injuries or fatalities. That can be explained by these factors: 

• A pedestrian is much smaller and lighter than a vehicle, which means that the force of impact can be much greater. This can result in more severe injuries, including broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries.
• Pedestrians have no protection from the impact of a vehicle, whereas occupants of vehicles are protected by the car's frame and safety features such as airbags and seat belts. This means that pedestrians are more likely to suffer serious injuries to the head, neck, and spine.
• Pedestrians are also more vulnerable to injuries from secondary impacts, such as when they hit the ground or are struck by other objects after being hit by a vehicle.

Liability: In pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents, liability may be clearer cut than in other types of accidents. Generally, if a driver hits a pedestrian, they will be held responsible for the accident, unless the pedestrian was behaving negligently. That could mean a quicker settlement for pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents.

Legal considerations: Pedestrian accidents may involve unique legal considerations, such as the duty of care owed by drivers to pedestrians, the rules of the road governing pedestrian behavior, and the responsibilities of property owners to maintain safe conditions for pedestrians.

Emotional impact: Pedestrian accidents can have a significant emotional impact on the victim and their loved ones, particularly if the accident results in serious injuries or fatalities. For example, a person taking a walk for health reasons could be very reluctant to take up walking again after being hit by a vehicle. The accident could cause long-term psychological issues for the victim. 

Due to these unique factors, pedestrian vs. vehicle accidents often requires specialized legal and medical attention to ensure that the victim receives the compensation they need and deserve. Speak to a personal injury lawyer about your pedestrian accident today. 

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11 May 2023