A car accident is stressful for anyone, but the stakes are much higher when you’re pregnant. In addition to your own well-being, you also have to worry about your baby’s health. Even minor collisions can raise serious concerns, and beyond the medical issues, every expectant mother should understand the legal considerations. If you or a loved one is pregnant and has been involved in a crash, knowing your legal rights can help you take steps to protect both your health and your future.
Immediate Medical Concerns After a Crash
The first and most important priority after any accident is medical care. Pregnant women are vulnerable to injuries that may not be immediately obvious. Even a small jolt can cause complications like premature labor, injuries to the baby, internal bleeding, or miscarriage. The sooner you seek a doctor, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
Because symptoms don’t always appear right away, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Not only do you have the legal right to seek treatment, but doing so could strengthen your personal injury claim in the future. Prompt treatment not only protects you and your baby but also creates an important medical record that can later support your case for compensation.
The Right to Pursue Compensation
If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, you may be entitled to compensation. This can include both your injuries and any harm to your pregnancy. Compensation may cover:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages
Emotional trauma is a significant part of accidents involving pregnancy. The fear, anxiety, and grief associated with potential harm to a baby can be overwhelming. Courts often consider this emotional toll when calculating damages. In many cases, emotional distress compensation may be pursued alongside medical and financial recovery. Every case is different, but the law recognizes the unique and serious impact a car accident can have on an expectant mother.
Dealing With Insurance Companies Can Be Complicated
In the aftermath of a crash, insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. This is especially common in cases where pregnancy-related injuries are involved, given the high cost of medical care. They may argue that complications were pre-existing or unrelated to the crash. That’s why thorough medical documentation is so important, as it establishes a clear connection between the accident and any pregnancy complications.
If you’re contacted by an insurance adjuster, it’s important to be cautious. Provide only necessary information and avoid signing anything until you fully understand your rights. Your best path forward is to rely on legal counsel to deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
Legal Considerations for the Unborn Child
One unique legal aspect of accidents involving pregnancy is the recognition of injuries to an unborn child. In many states, parents can pursue claims for injuries to a fetus. Ohio law allows the mother of an unborn child to seek compensation based on injuries they sustained while in the womb. If the accident leads to long-term medical issues for the baby, compensation may cover future medical care, therapy and related costs.
Protecting Yourself Legally
If you’ve been in a car accident while pregnant, you can take several steps to safeguard your health and your legal rights. These include the following:
- Seek immediate medical care. Even if you feel fine, complications can develop hours or days later.
- Keep detailed records. Save all medical reports, bills and receipts related to the accident.
- Document your experience. Write down how you feel physically and emotionally in the days and weeks after the crash.
- Be careful with insurance companies. Their goal is to minimize payouts, not to protect your best interests.
- Consult with an experienced attorney. A lawyer who handles car accident cases can explain your options, communicate with insurers on your behalf, and help you pursue fair compensation.
The Steps You Take After an Accident Are Crucial
A car accident during pregnancy is more than just a collision, as it can have life-changing consequences for both mother and child. Understanding your legal rights is the first step toward ensuring you have the support you need. The good news is that our Cleveland car accident lawyers are here to help.
You don’t have to face the legal system on your own. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, reach out to Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy today for a private consultation.
