Most Common Injuries When Pedestrians Are Hit by a Car

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers | July 31, 2025 | Pedestrian Accidents

Most Common Injuries When Pedestrians Are Hit by a Car

Pedestrian-car accidents often result in severe injuries. When a vehicle strikes someone on foot, the human body absorbs the full force of the collision. This frequently leads to physical trauma, long recovery periods, and, in some cases, permanent disability. 

These injuries disrupt daily life and create serious medical and legal consequences. Knowing the most common injuries in pedestrian accidents can help victims recognize symptoms early, get the medical attention they need, and protect their right to compensation.

Head and Brain Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Head trauma ranks among the most severe consequences of a pedestrian crash. Damage to your brain can disrupt your thoughts, movement, and personality. A direct blow to the head can cause internal swelling or bleeding that threatens your life within hours.

Victims can be thrown into the pavement, a vehicle’s hood, or the windshield, causing:

Brain injuries can also cause long-lasting cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges. Some victims require months or years of therapy, while others face permanent impairment. 

Treatment for Head and Brain Trauma after a Collision

Medical staff must act fast when a person is hit by a vehicle. If a pedestrian shows signs of mental confusion, nausea, blurred vision, or loss of consciousness, they must be rushed to the hospital for tests and scans to help identify bleeding or pressure. 

Immediate treatment often prevents permanent damage. Even a minor delay can cause lasting harm. The risk for permanent damage increases when the driver flees the scene instead of getting the pedestrian prompt medical attention.

Spinal Cord and Neck Injuries

The spinal cord and neck are highly vulnerable in pedestrian collisions. Sudden twists, compressions, or impacts can result in:

  • Herniated or ruptured discs
  • Spinal fractures
  • Nerve damage
  • Whiplash

Neck injuries, such as whiplash or disc injuries, often result from sharp movement caused by impact. The cervical spine may stretch beyond safe limits when a pedestrian’s body recoils or flips backward. This can cause soft tissue damage, nerve disruption, and joint displacement.

Spinal cord injuries may lead to partial or total paralysis. Even less severe injuries can lead to chronic pain, numbness, or limited mobility. Recovery often involves physical therapy, pain management, or surgery.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones often result from direct impact or a fall during a pedestrian crash. Fractures are common in pedestrian-car accidents because vehicles often strike the lower body first.

Injuries may include:

  • Leg, hip, or pelvic fractures
  • Wrist and arm fractures from bracing during a fall
  • Rib, shoulder, or collarbone fractures

Fractures disrupt work, school, childcare, and daily life. They usually result in financial burdens–including hospitalizations, visits to orthopedists, imaging tests, and physical therapy.

Recovery may involve casting, surgery, or the placement of metal plates and screws. Victims also often experience a loss of independence during recovery, which can harm their mental health.

Healing can take months, and some victims develop long-term complications like arthritis or reduced mobility. For example, a broken leg or hip often requires crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs, even after the cast comes off.

When to Contact a California Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

If you were hit by a car while walking, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages–like medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

A personal injury lawyer can:

  • Investigate the crash and preserve key evidence
  • Handle insurance negotiations and legal filings
  • Consult with medical experts to assess your damages
  • Fight for the compensation you need to recover

Contact the San Diego pedestrian accident lawyers at Mission Personal Injury Lawyers today to schedule a free case review. We are ready to help you rebuild after a serious pedestrian accident.

Contact the Pedestrian Accident Law Firm of Mission Personal Injury Lawyers Today To Get More Information

If you’ve been injured in San Diego or Chula Vista, please call Mission Personal Injury Lawyers for a free case evaluation with a personal injury lawyer or contact us online.

We proudly serve San Diego County and throughout California.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – San Diego Office
2515 Camino del Rio S Suite 350, San Diego, CA 92108
(619) 777-5555

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – Chula Vista Office
690 Otay Lakes Rd #130, Chula Vista, CA 91910
(619) 722-3032

We also serve the state of Texas. For legal assistance, contact our personal injury law office in El Paso today.

Mission Personal Injury Lawyers – El Paso Office
201 E Main Suite 106, El Paso, Texas 79901
(915) 591-1000