Car accidents are always scary and highly emotional situations, and for expectant mothers, it can be even worse. Not only do they have their own well-being to consider, but that of their unborn baby as well.
At the Scene of the Accident
Like any car accident, there are some basics steps to always follow:
- Stay at the Scene. If you can, move yourself out of the street and harm’s way. But don’t stray too far from the scene.
- Call 911. The police will come and make a report.
- Stay Calm. Accidents are scary, but angry yelling will never be useful in this situation.
- Don’t Apologize or Admit Fault. Do be honest when giving a statement to the police but avoid phrases like “It was all my fault”. Such statements may damage any potential insurance claim
- Gather Evidence. Gathering evidence is a big step in the process of making a legal claim, try to obtain the following:
- The other’s driver’s information
- Photos/videos
- Witnesses
- Police/Accident Report
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
In the aftermath of a car accident, some injuries are not always immediately apparent. In fact, it can take anywhere from 24 hours to a few weeks for serious car crash-related injuries to manifest.
Regardless of whether you think you need it or not, pregnant women should seek immediate medical attention when involved in a car accident. After receiving general emergency room care, be sure to ask for or make an appointment with an obstetrician to check on the fetus.
If you are cleared to go home from the hospital, watch out for the following symptoms that could be indicative of an injury:
- Vaginal Bleeding
- Leaking Fluid
- Abdominal pain
- Contractions
- A decline in the baby’s movement
Types of Injuries
There are many types of injuries that both a pregnant woman and her unborn child may sustain from a car accident. These injuries include:
- Maternal Shock
- Miscarriage
- Higher Risk Pregnancy
- Premature Birth
- Internal Bleeding
- Birth Defects
- Shaken Baby Syndrome (due to the abruptness of an accident)
- Placental Abruption (in which the placenta separates from the uterus)
- Fetal Trauma
Hire an Attorney
If you are pregnant and have been injured in a car accident, don’t attempt to handle the case on your own. Insurance companies have teams of experienced adjusters, investigators, and lawyers trying to settle your case for as little money as possible. Experienced personal injury attorneys, on the other hand, know the ins and outs of the law. If you hire legal representation, you are more likely to receive a higher settlement than if you attempt to handle the case on your own.
If you are pregnant and have been injured in a car accident, contact a car accident lawyer from Kamper & Estrada, PLLC for a free initial consultation and let our family help yours.
