Pedestrians are at serious risk of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) when they are hit by a car. Unlike drivers, people on foot have no protection against the impact of a vehicle, which can cause severe head injuries—even in low-speed collisions. A TBI can change everything, affecting memory, speech, mobility, and overall quality of life, often requiring a long and challenging healing process.
March is Brain Injury Awareness Month, a reminder of just how serious TBIs can be—especially for injured pedestrians. The road to recovery after a brain injury is not easy, but understanding your potential legal options can help put you in a position to recover the compensation you deserve.
What is a traumatic brain injury?
A traumatic brain injury occurs when a sudden impact or jolt disrupts normal brain function. TBIs affect how the brain processes information, controls movement, and regulates emotions, making even simple daily tasks challenging. Some brain injuries heal with time, but others require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments.
TBIs are classified into three main levels:
- Mild TBI: Temporary effects may include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sensitivity to light or sound. Most people recover within weeks, but some experience lingering symptoms.
- Moderate TBI: More serious than a mild concussion, this type of injury may cause confusion, memory problems, and difficulty speaking or concentrating. Recovery can take months and may require rehabilitation.
- Severe TBI: A life-altering injury that can lead to permanent brain damage, loss of motor function, personality changes, and long-term disability. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
How do pedestrian accidents result in head injuries?
A TBI from a pedestrian accident can happen in several ways, including:
- Direct impact with a vehicle: A pedestrian’s head may hit the hood, windshield, or bumper.
- Secondary impact with the ground: Even if the initial impact does not cause a TBI, being thrown to the unforgiving pavement can cause a head or brain injury.
- High-speed collisions: The greater the force, the higher the risk of severe brain injuries. Sudden acceleration and deceleration can cause the brain to crash around inside the skull, leading to a TBI without an external impact.
- Crushing injuries: In some cases, a pedestrian may be pinned or crushed by the vehicle, causing trauma to the head and brain.
Symptoms and warning signs of a TBI
Not all TBIs are immediately obvious. Some symptoms appear immediately, while others may take days or weeks to develop. Warning signs to watch for include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness and nausea
- Sensitivity to light
- Fatigue
- Sleep issues
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Mood swings
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures
How a pedestrian accident lawyer can help after a brain injury
Suffering a traumatic brain injury in a pedestrian accident can turn your life upside down, but you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A., Mr. Shomo and his dedicated legal team understand how devastating TBIs can be. That’s why our law firm is committed to fighting for the maximum compensation our clients deserve.
Our seasoned legal team provides personal attention to every client, going above and beyond to help accident victims navigate the legal process so they can focus on healing. Do not let an insurance company minimize your TBI claim—let us protect your rights and aggressively advocate for your best interests.
Mr. Shomo has successfully secured millions for victims, including a $3,335,000 settlement for a client who suffered severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, crush injuries, and multiple surgeries after a pedestrian accident in Florida.
To see how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free and confidential consultation. Our office is located in Palm Beach Gardens, and we offer legal representation to clients throughout Florida.
“Mr. Shomo showed a great deal of compassion and patience in the most difficult time of our lives. He went above and beyond in every aspect, and we are so thankful and grateful.” – Kim R., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐