Traumatic Brain Injuries from Pedestrian Accidents in Los Angeles
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the head often absorbs part of the impact — either from the vehicle itself or from hitting the pavement. Traumatic brain injuries, commonly called TBIs, are among the most serious consequences of pedestrian crashes in Los Angeles. An experienced pedestrian accident lawyer understands that TBIs can permanently change a victim’s life, even when the injury initially seems mild.
If you or a loved one suffered a head injury after being hit by a car, it is critical to understand the medical and legal implications.
Why Pedestrians Are at High Risk for Brain Injuries
Unlike drivers or passengers inside vehicles, pedestrians have no seatbelts, airbags, or structural protection. When a car strikes a pedestrian, the body is often thrown onto the hood or windshield before hitting the ground. The force of impact can cause:
- Direct head trauma
- Skull fractures
- Brain bleeding
- Concussions
- Diffuse axonal injury
Even crashes at relatively low speeds can cause significant brain trauma. Urban speeds of 25 to 35 mph are enough to produce life-altering injuries.
Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries
TBIs vary widely in severity. Common types include:
Concussions
Often labeled “mild,” concussions can still cause prolonged symptoms such as headaches, memory problems, and sensitivity to light and noise.
Contusions (Brain Bruises)
These occur when the brain strikes the inside of the skull during impact. Severe contusions may require surgery.
Penetrating Brain Injuries
These happen when an object pierces the skull, causing direct brain damage.
Diffuse Axonal Injury
This type involves widespread damage to brain cells due to rapid acceleration or deceleration forces.
A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer will ensure that even so-called “mild” brain injuries are taken seriously in a legal claim.
Symptoms That May Appear After the Crash
TBI symptoms are not always immediately obvious. Some signs may develop hours or days later. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent headaches
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Memory loss
- Confusion
- Mood changes
- Irritability
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Sleep disturbances
- Difficulty concentrating
Because these symptoms can overlap with other conditions, proper medical evaluation is critical.
Long-Term Consequences of TBIs
Traumatic brain injuries often lead to long-term or permanent challenges, such as:
- Cognitive impairment
- Personality changes
- Depression and anxiety
- Chronic pain
- Reduced ability to work
- Loss of independence
In severe cases, victims may require lifelong medical care, therapy, and assistance with daily activities. These long-term needs significantly increase the value and complexity of a legal claim.
Why Brain Injury Cases Are Often Disputed
Insurance companies frequently minimize TBI claims, especially when imaging tests such as CT scans appear “normal.” However, many brain injuries do not show clearly on standard scans.
Advanced diagnostic tools and neuropsychological testing are often necessary to fully document the extent of the injury. Without proper documentation, insurers may argue that symptoms are exaggerated or unrelated.
A knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer works with neurologists, neuropsychologists, and medical experts to build a strong case.
Proving Liability in a Pedestrian TBI Case
To recover compensation, you must show that another party’s negligence caused the accident. Common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield in crosswalks
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Running red lights
- Drunk driving
Evidence may include police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction analysis.
California’s comparative negligence rules allow injured pedestrians to recover damages even if they share some fault — but the compensation may be reduced accordingly.
What Compensation Can Cover in a TBI Claim?
Because brain injuries often involve lifelong consequences, compensation may include:
- Emergency and hospital care
- Neurosurgery
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Future medical expenses
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
Severe TBI cases may result in six- or seven-figure settlements or verdicts depending on the extent of disability.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Brain injury cases require early evidence preservation. Medical documentation, expert evaluations, and accident scene evidence all play critical roles. Delays can weaken claims and allow insurers to challenge the connection between the accident and symptoms.
If a government entity is potentially involved — for example, due to dangerous road conditions — special claim deadlines may apply.
Why a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Is Essential in Brain Injury Cases
Traumatic brain injuries are medically complex and legally challenging. A skilled pedestrian accident lawyer understands how to prove long-term impact, calculate future damages, and counter insurance tactics designed to minimize recovery.
At Bojat Law Group, we represent pedestrian accident victims throughout Los Angeles, including those suffering from serious brain injuries. We work with medical experts and financial analysts to pursue full compensation for the lasting effects of TBI.
If you or a loved one sustained a head injury after being struck by a vehicle, call (818) 877-4878 for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.
