The first thing you should do after any accident is to seek medical attention for your injuries. Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor as soon as possible is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, such as:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) – A traumatic brain injury can occur when a pedestrian is hit by a vehicle or if the strike causes them to fall and hit their head on the ground. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, and confusion, but these symptoms can take days or weeks to appear.
- Internal injuries – Pedestrians can suffer internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or a ruptured spleen when motorists hit them. These injuries take time to manifest symptoms but can have deadly consequences.
- Soft tissue injuries – Sprains and strains may have no outward signs. It could take hours or days for pain, swelling, or bruising to indicate you suffered a significant injury.
With pedestrian accident fatalities at historically high levels in recent years, it is imperative to prioritize your health after a crash, even if you do not have any visible injuries. After seeking medical attention, contact a personal injury lawyer to discuss your case and understand your legal options.
