Pedestrian Injuries In Philadelphia Parking Lots

Parking lots can be a surprisingly dangerous place for pedestrians. With cars moving in and out, distracted drivers, and limited visibility, accidents can and do happen. Here are some of the common types of injuries that pedestrians suffer in Philadelphia parking lots.

Head Injuries

Head injuries are a grave concern in pedestrian accidents. The impact of a vehicle collision can lead to a range of head injuries, from concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even seemingly minor blows to the head can have lasting effects. Concussions, for instance, can result in temporary cognitive impairment, while more severe TBIs may lead to long-term complications, including cognitive deficits, memory problems, and even changes in personality.

Fractures and Dislocations

Fractures occur when bones are broken, ranging from hairline cracks to more severe breaks, affecting limbs, the pelvis, and even the spine. Dislocations, on the other hand, happen when a bone is forcefully displaced from its normal position in a joint. This can result in intense pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Both fractures and dislocations require immediate medical attention, and in some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary for proper healing.

Back and Spinal Cord Injuries

Back and spinal cord injuries are among the most serious consequences of parking lot collisions with pedestrians. The impact can exert tremendous force on the spine, potentially leading to severe damage. Back injuries can result in fractures, dislocations, and herniated discs, causing debilitating pain and limited mobility. Spinal cord injuries, on the other hand, can have even graver implications, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis below the point of injury.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries can be particularly dangerous as they may not always be immediately apparent. The force of impact can lead to trauma within the body, affecting organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys. These injuries can cause internal bleeding, damage to vital structures, and other life-threatening complications. Due to the potential delayed onset of symptoms, it’s crucial for pedestrians involved in accidents to seek immediate medical attention, even if they feel relatively fine initially. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential in managing and mitigating the impact of internal injuries in these situations.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries encompass damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, often caused by a vehicle’s sudden and forceful impact. They can result in strains, sprains, and contusions, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility. While not always immediately apparent, soft tissue injuries can have long-lasting effects if left untreated.

Wrongful Death

Wrongful death refers to the tragic circumstance where a pedestrian loses their life in a parking lot accident. The surviving family members of the victim have the right to seek compensation for their loss, which may include funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, and emotional suffering.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Injuries in Parking Lots

Distracted Driving

Drivers often become distracted in parking lots, either by their phones, adjusting the radio, or looking for an empty spot. This distraction can lead to a failure to notice pedestrians.

Reversing Accidents

Backing out of a parking space can be one of the most dangerous actions in a parking lot. Limited visibility and blind spots make it easy for drivers to overlook pedestrians walking behind their vehicles.

Speeding

Some drivers may underestimate the potential dangers in a parking lot and drive at higher speeds than they should. This can lead to accidents with pedestrians who may not have time to react.

Failure to Yield

Drivers may not always yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks or designated pedestrian areas.

Poor Lighting

Inadequate lighting in parking lots can reduce visibility for both drivers and pedestrians, increasing the risk of collisions.

Pedestrians who have suffered an injury in a parking lot have the right to hold the at-fault driver accountable. If you or a loved one has found themselves in this situation, speak to a skilled Philadelphia pedestrian accident attorney. Contact us today.