Common Injuries in Luzerne County Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents are becoming increasingly common throughout Luzerne County, including in Wilkes-Barre, Hazleton, Kingston, and surrounding communities. As traffic congestion grows and drivers become more distracted, pedestrians face a significantly higher risk of serious injury than occupants of motor vehicles.

When a car, truck, or SUV strikes a pedestrian, the injuries are often severe or even fatal. Unlike drivers, pedestrians have no protection from the force of impact. The severity of injuries typically depends on vehicle speed, point of impact, and whether the pedestrian is thrown onto the roadway or another hard surface.

Below are some of the most common pedestrian accident injuries we see in Luzerne County personal injury claims.

Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Head injuries are among the most serious injuries suffered by pedestrians. When struck by a vehicle, a pedestrian's head may hit the hood, windshield, pavement, curb, or sidewalk.

These injuries can include:

• Concussions

• Skull fractures

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)

Severe TBIs may lead to permanent brain damage, memory loss, personality changes, seizures, or coma. Even mild head injuries should never be ignored. Immediate medical evaluation is critical after any pedestrian accident.

Fractures and Broken Bones

Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to broken bones due to the direct impact with a vehicle and the secondary impact with the ground.

Common fractures include:

• Broken legs, ankles, and feet

• Arm and wrist fractures

• Pelvic fractures

• Rib and collarbone fractures

Many fractures require surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation, often keeping victims out of work for months.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they are not always immediately visible. Pedestrians struck by vehicles may suffer:

• Internal bleeding

• Organ damage (liver, spleen, kidneys)

• Lung injuries

• Spinal cord damage

These injuries can be life-threatening and often require emergency medical treatment. Delayed diagnosis can significantly worsen outcomes, making prompt medical care essential.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries affect the muscles, ligaments, and tendons and are very common in pedestrian accidents.

Examples include:

• Whiplash

• Sprains and strains

• Torn ligaments or tendons

While these injuries may seem minor at first, they can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and long-term disability. Treatment often includes physical therapy, pain management, and extended recovery time.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Pedestrian accidents don't just cause physical injuries. Many victims experience emotional and psychological harm, including:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Fear of walking near traffic

These injuries are real and compensable under Pennsylvania law.

Contact a Luzerne County Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one was hit by a car in Luzerne County, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Insurance companies often try to minimize pedestrian injury claims—especially when injuries are severe.  At Sklarosky Law, we represent accident victims throughout Luzerne County and Northeastern Pennsylvania, fighting for the compensation they deserve.

Call (570) 283-1200 or use our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.