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At Lipsig, Freund & Wisell, PLLC, our New York City personal injury attorneys have been fighting for accident victims for decades—delivering proven results and dedicated legal representation in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.

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Internal Injuries After a Pedestrian Accident in New York

February 06, 2026

| Pedestrian Accidents

Unlike drivers who benefit from airbags, seatbelts, and the vehicle’s frame, pedestrians are hit with the direct impact of a collision, frequently resulting in severe and catastrophic harm to the body. At Lipsig, Freund, & Wisell, our personal injury lawyers represent injured pedestrians throughout New York City and the surrounding boroughs.

Symptoms Pedestrians Should Watch for Following an Accident

Your body may not immediately reveal the extent of harm sustained during a collision. Adrenaline and shock can mask pain signals, making it difficult to recognize serious conditions in the hours following an accident. Symptoms include:

Even if you feel relatively fine at the scene, these warning signs may appear hours or even days later. Seeking prompt medical evaluation remains one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and any future legal claim.

Internal Injuries After a Pedestrian Accident

Many internal injuries do not present obvious symptoms right away, which makes them particularly dangerous. Damage to organs, blood vessels, and the brain can progress silently while you remain unaware of the severity. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, these hidden conditions can become life-threatening within hours.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

A blow to the head during a pedestrian collision can cause damage ranging from mild concussions to severe brain bleeds. Some individuals experience a lucid interval before their condition deteriorates, making immediate medical screening imperative.

Internal Bleeding and Organ Damage

The spleen, liver, and kidneys are particularly vulnerable during high-impact collisions because of their position in the abdomen. Damage to these organs can cause infection, internal bleeding, and long-term complications requiring surgery or extended hospital stays. The pancreas and intestines may also sustain harm that necessitates immediate treatment.

Punctured or Collapsed Lungs

Broken ribs from a pedestrian accident can pierce lung tissue, causing air to leak into the chest cavity. A collapsed lung creates difficulty breathing and requires medical procedures to reinflate the affected area.

Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident

Protecting your health and preserving your legal rights requires prompt action in the days following a collision. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law Section 388, vehicle owners bear responsibility for injuries caused by anyone operating their car with permission:

Taking these measures creates documentation that supports your recovery and establishes a clear timeline of your injuries. Your medical records will serve as important evidence if you pursue compensation from the at-fault driver or their insurance company.

Were You Injured in a Pedestrian Accident? Contact Us Today

Are you struggling with medical bills and lost wages after a vehicle struck you? The team at Lipsig is ready to review your situation and discuss your options Contact us online or call 212-285-3300 for a free consultation with a New York pedestrian accident lawyer who can answer your questions.