Who is at Risk for a Pedestrian Traffic Accident?
Children
Children are some of the most commonly injured parties in pedestrian traffic accidents. They are less aware of rules, laws, and the many dangers that exist on and near major roads.
Children tend to be drawn to impulsive actions and they don’t discern potentially hazardous situations as well as adults. They are often also experts at sneaking away from watchful eyes or appearing to be paying attention to their surroundings but failing to actually do so.
For these reasons, children under 16 are the most likely group to be injured as a result of a traffic accident.
Lower Economic Status
Individuals who are in a lower socioeconomic status are increasingly likely to be involved in a pedestrian traffic accident. This group is the most difficult to define and discern why these accidents occur, but a clear correlation between the frequency of accidents and socioeconomic status can be drawn.
Some think that it may have a lot to do with access to support in the community, and a lower likelihood of utilizing emergency service in the event of a traumatic event.
Elderly
The elderly population are disproportionately represented amongst pedestrian traffic accident victims. Most of the issues which affect this group of people and cause them to be likely to be involved in a traffic accident are related to their mobility or sensory issues.
It is not at all uncommon for elderly individuals to suffer from various conditions that cause them to move more slowly in a traffic setting. They might also have difficulty with their hearing or their sight.
When this is the case, signals that others make note of quickly could easily be missed. Honking horns, flashing lights, and even improperly timed lights can negatively impact an elderly individual’s ability to navigate traffic settings.
How Do Pedestrian Traffic Accidents Commonly Occur?
The factors that are most likely to contribute to pedestrian traffic accidents are when and where they occur. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time can prove fatal in severe situations.
Accidents are common after dark because visibility is low, and drivers aren’t expecting to see pedestrians in their path. Also, inclement weather can contribute to the incidences of pedestrian traffic accidents.
Many cases are also marked by the presence of at least one intoxicated individual involved in the accident. Negligent driving, access to medical services, poor layout or city planning, and many other factors can lead to an uptick in accidents with injuries and fatalities.
Common Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Traffic Accidents
Various musculoskeletal issues are incredibly common in the aftermath of pedestrian accidents. These injuries can have lifelong consequences if the pedestrian is hit hard enough.
Chest injuries and abdominal injuries are seen very frequently as well. Because many victims are struck below their abdomen, these injuries likely occur as a result of making an impact with the hood of the car. The most severe injuries often seen by doctors would be traumatic injuries to the brain. This generally means the head has been hit with a large impact.
If you or someone you know has been in involved in a pedestrian-related accident, contact the medical professionals at AICA Orthopedics. We have thirteen convenient clinics around Atlanta to serve accident victims wherever they are.
