Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Treatment

Charlotte Pedestrian Accident: Seeking Medical Attention After an Injury

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. In a bustling city like Charlotte, NC, with a growing population and heavy traffic, pedestrian accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence. If you’ve been struck by a vehicle while walking, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly, regardless of the severity of your injuries.

At Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology, our team of experienced healthcare professionals is here to help you recover from a pedestrian accident and get back on your feet. Schedule a consultation today! We understand the physical and emotional toll an accident can take, and we’re dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to guide you through the healing process. Call us at 704-412-3045 to learn more.

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Charlotte Pedestrian Accident Statistics

Data from various sources paints a concerning picture of pedestrian safety in Charlotte. According to a report from the UNC Charlotte Urban Institute, looking at five-year averages (2016-2020), the Charlotte region has an average of two pedestrian deaths for every 100,000 people, ranking it in the middle of the pack for pedestrian fatalities amongst the top 100 U.S. cities. While this might seem like an average statistic, it translates to a significant number of lives tragically lost each year.

The same report highlights a worrying trend: preliminary estimates for 2021 suggest nearly 7,500 pedestrians were killed nationwide, marking a potential 40-year high in pedestrian fatalities. These statistics emphasize the importance of pedestrian safety awareness and highlight the need for all road users – drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike – to exercise caution and share the responsibility of keeping our streets safe.

What Should I Do If I Am Involved in a Pedestrian Accident?

The immediate aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be confusing and stressful. However, taking the following steps can help protect your health and legal rights:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

This is the single most important step. Even if you feel relatively okay, adrenaline can mask underlying injuries like internal bleeding or head trauma. Don’t hesitate to call 911 or proceed to the nearest emergency room for a comprehensive medical evaluation. Explain to medical personnel that you were involved in a pedestrian accident and detail any pain or discomfort you’re experiencing.

At Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology, we understand the importance of prompt medical attention after a pedestrian accident. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals is equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of pedestrian accident injuries, from minor soft tissue strains to complex fractures and neurological issues.

Contact the Police and File an Accident Report

Reporting the accident to the police as soon as possible is crucial. The police will create an official accident report documenting the scene of the accident, including weather conditions, traffic signals, and witness statements. This report serves as a vital piece of evidence for insurance purposes and potential legal claims.

When reporting the accident, be factual and objective in your description of events.

Gather Information and Document the Scene

If you are able to do so safely, collect as much information as possible about the accident. Exchange contact and insurance details with the driver involved, including their name, driver’s license number, license plate number, and insurance company information. Note down the make, model, and color of the vehicle involved. If there are any witnesses present, try to obtain their contact information as well.

When possible, take pictures of the accident scene from various angles, capturing the damage to vehicles involved, any visible skid marks, traffic signals, and your injuries (once it’s safe to do so). This visual documentation can be invaluable evidence later.

Maintain Detailed Records

Throughout your recovery journey, meticulously keep records of all medical bills, receipts for any accident-related expenses (medication, transportation, medical equipment), and communication with insurance companies or legal representatives. Organize these documents chronologically for easy reference. Having a clear record of your expenses will be crucial when dealing with insurance companies and potential legal claims.

Charlotte Pedestrian Accident action photo

What Are Typical Pedestrian Accident Injuries?

The force of a Charlotte pedestrian accident can vary significantly depending on the speed of the vehicle, the point of impact, and the pedestrian’s position. These factors contribute to a wide range of potential injuries, impacting various parts of the body.

Here’s a closer look at some of the most common injuries sustained in pedestrian accidents.

Soft Tissue Injuries

These are the most frequent injuries in pedestrian accidents, often occurring due to falls or sudden impacts. Soft tissue injuries encompass sprains (ligament overstretching or tearing), strains (muscle tears), and contusions (bruises). The severity of these injuries can range from mild discomfort to significant pain and limited mobility.

Treatment for soft tissue injuries typically involves the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) along with pain medication and physical therapy to promote healing and regain full range of motion.

Bone Fractures

The impact with a vehicle can cause fractures in various bones, depending on the point of contact. Common fractures include those in the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and even facial bones. The severity of fractures can range from minor hairline cracks, often treated with a cast or splint, to more complex displaced fractures requiring surgery to realign the bone fragments and promote proper healing.

Recovery time for fractures varies depending on the bone involved and the severity of the break.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are a major concern in pedestrian accidents, especially when the head strikes a hard surface like the pavement or the vehicle itself. These injuries can range from mild concussions to more serious brain injuries. Concussions can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty concentrating.

Symptoms may not appear immediately, so it’s crucial to seek medical attention even after a seemingly minor head bump. More severe brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive, sensory, and motor impairments. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for minimizing the long-term consequences of head injuries.

Spine Injuries

The spine is a intricate collection of nerves that sends messages between the brain and the rest of the body. The trauma of a pedestrian accident can damage the spinal cord, leading to partial or complete paralysis. The severity of the injury depends on the location and extent of the damage.

Spinal cord injuries can have a devastating impact on a person’s mobility, independence, and overall well-being. Extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and ongoing support are crucial for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Internal Injuries

Pedestrian accidents can cause internal injuries that may not be readily apparent. These injuries can include bleeding in the abdomen, damage to internal organs like the spleen or liver, or internal head injuries. Symptoms of internal injuries may develop gradually and can include severe abdominal pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Prompt medical evaluation is essential to diagnose and treat internal injuries before complications arise. Untreated internal bleeding can be life-threatening.

Psychological Trauma

The emotional impact of a pedestrian accident can be significant and long-lasting. Victims may experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. PTSD can manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, and intense fear associated with the accident. Anxiety and depression can lead to social withdrawal, difficulty sleeping, and a general loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

What are typical pedestrian accident injuries

Seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor can be crucial for addressing the emotional and psychological challenges following a pedestrian accident.

Recovering from a Pedestrian Accident and Getting the Help You Need

Being involved in a pedestrian accident can be a life-altering experience. The physical and emotional injuries can take time to heal. At Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology, we understand the challenges you face after a pedestrian accident. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals is here to support you every step of the way.

We offer a comprehensive range of services to help you recover from your injuries, including:

  • Pain Management: We utilize various pain management strategies like medication, physical therapy, and injections to reduce pain and promote healing.
  • Physical Therapy: Our rehabilitation specialists create personalized physical therapy programs to improve mobility, strength, and function.
  • Neurological Care: For injuries affecting the nervous system, we offer specialized care from neurologists to address neurological deficits.
  • Mental Health Services: We recognize the importance of mental health after an accident. We can connect you with qualified therapists to address any emotional challenges you may be facing.

Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention! If you’ve been injured in a pedestrian accident, call Apex Orthopaedics Spine & Neurology at 704-412-3045 to schedule a consultation. We are committed to helping you heal and get back to living a full and active life. Together, we can navigate the path to recovery.

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