Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but when you’re pregnant, it can be downright terrifying. Beyond worrying about your health, you also have the well-being of your unborn child to consider. At the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be. That’s why we’re here to provide the legal support and guidance you need. This article outlines critical steps to take after a car accident while pregnant, helping protect your health and legal rights.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
The first and most important step is to get medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, the impact of a car accident—no matter how minor—can pose serious risks to both you and your baby. Trauma during pregnancy is more common than you might think —1 in 12 pregnancies is complicated by trauma, with car accidents being the leading cause.
While 90% of traumatic injuries during pregnancy are considered “minor,” 60-70% of fetal loss after trauma occurs as a result of these minor injuries.
Immediate medical attention is critical for both you and your baby, even if the injuries don’t seem severe at first.
Go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center as soon as possible, and have a medical professional assess both your condition and that of your baby. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the importance of prenatal care following any trauma to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
Additionally, keep a detailed record of your symptoms—pain, discomfort, or changes in your baby’s movements. This documentation will be invaluable if you decide to file a personal injury claim later against the at-fault party in the accident.
2. Contact the Police
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to report it to the police. A police report creates an official record of the accident, which will be important for insurance claims and any future legal proceedings. Be sure to request a copy of the report for your records.
3. Gather Information at the Scene
If you’re able, collect as much information as possible from the scene. This includes the contact information of the other driver (name, phone number, address, insurance details), and photos of the accident. Document any damage to your vehicle, the other vehicles involved, and the road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Eyewitness accounts can also help if the fault is disputed later.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
After the accident, promptly notify your insurance company. Provide them with the police report and all other information you’ve gathered. Review your policy to ensure you understand your coverage limits and what’s included, especially concerning medical care and accident-related damages.
5. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer
Navigating the aftermath of a car accident, especially while pregnant, can be overwhelming. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
At the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, our personal injury attorneys have extensive experience with car accident claims, including those involving pregnant women. We can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any ongoing care you or your baby might need.
Understanding the Risks of Car Accidents During Pregnancy
Car accidents can introduce significant risks to both the expectant mother and the baby. These risks include:
- Premature birth: Trauma from a car accident can trigger contractions and lead to premature labor. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) strongly recommends immediate medical evaluation following any accident to monitor for such risks.
- Placental abruption: This condition occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall, cutting off the baby’s oxygen supply. It requires urgent medical attention.
- Fetal injuries: Direct trauma to the mother can result in fetal injuries, including head trauma or broken bones.
- Miscarriage:In severe cases, a car accident can lead to miscarriage.
The Legal Implications of a Car Accident While Pregnant
If you’ve been in a car accident while pregnant, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and even filing a claim for emotional distress compensation.
To recover compensation, you’ll need to prove that another driver’s negligence caused the accident. This process can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies, so having a qualified attorney by your side is essential.
At the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, our legal team is committed to helping you understand your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. We have experience handling personal injury claims for pregnant women and will work to ensure that your needs—and your baby’s needs—are met.
Been in a Car Accident While Pregnant? Call Us for a Free Consultation.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident while pregnant, don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Protect your health, your baby’s well-being, and your legal rights. At the Law Offices of Tim O’Hare, our experienced personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and help you seek the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today for a free consultation with our team to learn more about your legal rights.
