Pedestrian accidents can result in serious injuries because individuals walking or crossing a roadway have little physical protection from an approaching vehicle.
Whether the accident occurs in a crosswalk, parking lot, intersection, or residential area, the resulting injuries can significantly affect mobility and independence.
Common pedestrian accident injuries
Pedestrians struck by vehicles may experience knee injuries, ankle injuries, hip injuries, back and neck pain, shoulder injuries, fractures, and soft tissue damage.
Some accidents also cause head injuries or internal injuries that require emergency medical attention.
The importance of medical evaluation
Anyone struck by a vehicle should receive prompt medical evaluation, even if symptoms initially seem mild. Some serious injuries are not immediately obvious.
Once serious injuries have been assessed and your medical provider determines that rehabilitation is appropriate, physical therapy may become part of your recovery plan.
Rebuilding mobility and independence
Pedestrian accident rehabilitation may focus on restoring walking ability, improving balance, strengthening injured muscles, increasing joint mobility, and gradually rebuilding endurance.
For patients recovering from fractures or surgery, treatment must follow applicable healing precautions and weight-bearing restrictions.
Physical therapy and pedestrian injury claims
Pedestrian accidents may involve automobile insurance, personal injury protection benefits, or third-party liability claims.
At Greenbelt Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, we can coordinate appropriate clinical documentation and communicate with attorneys or insurance representatives when authorized.
Insurance coverage and payment responsibilities depend on the specific circumstances of the claim.
Recovering after being struck by a vehicle? Contact Greenbelt Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine to discuss your rehabilitation options.
Rehabilitation after the initial medical response
- Share hospital discharge instructions, surgical precautions, and any limits on loading an injured limb.
- Discuss walking distance, getting in and out of a car, navigating steps, and returning to your normal routine.
- Tell your care team about symptoms outside your therapy plan so the appropriate medical professional can assess them.
Common Questions
Is being hit by a car the same as a slip-and-fall injury?
No. A pedestrian collision can involve different forces, injuries, and insurance questions. We assess the diagnosed injuries and functional needs rather than using one standard accident program.
Can I begin PT while a claim is being reviewed?
Call our office to discuss medical readiness, referral requirements, and payment arrangements. Claim review alone does not establish coverage or an approved start date.
Further Reading
ChoosePT: Benefits of Physical Therapy ↗General educational information, not a diagnosis or individual treatment or legal advice. Your clinician can discuss your medical needs; an appropriate legal professional can address claim questions.
Your Comeback Starts Here
Physical Therapy in Greenbelt, Maryland
Greenbelt Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine Inc.
7241 Hanover Parkway, Suite A
Greenbelt, MD 20770