Approximately 1.3% of pregnant women will be in a car accident while pregnant. Both mother and child are at risk if a car accident occurs during pregnancy.
Our experienced Houston car accident lawyer at Haun Mena explains what to do if you’re involved in a car accident while pregnant.
Car Accidents During Pregnancy—A Leading Cause of Harm
Vehicle collisions injure close to 92,500 pregnant women in the United States annually. The National Library of Medicine says that motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of traumatic fetal mortality.
Immediate Steps To Take After the Accident
If you’re a pregnant woman in a car accident:
- Stop your vehicle away from traffic.
- Report the accident. Call 911 if there is any possibility you (or others) may be hurt.
- Tell the 911 operator and first responders you are pregnant.
- Always get medical attention urgently. Tell all medical care providers you are pregnant.
- Cooperate with the law enforcement investigation.
- Get driver and vehicle information. Take photos of the accident scene if you’re able. Always prioritize your medical care.
- Continue with medical care. Learn what symptoms to watch for and when to seek follow-up care.
You may deserve compensation for a car accident, including for harm relating to your pregnancy.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Even a car accident that seems minor can cause harm to a pregnant woman and her unborn child. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Serious injury, including placental abruption, can occur without the mother feeling pain. Adrenaline from the stress of the accident can temporarily hide pain.
Tell any official who responds to the scene—the police, fire department, emergency medical personnel—that you are pregnant. Knowing about your pregnancy can help first responders assist you quickly and appropriately. Tell your medical care providers so that they can provide a complete evaluation.
Recognizing Symptoms That Require Urgent Care
Even after your initial medical treatment, you should be aware of symptoms. If you notice bleeding, fluid discharge, cramps, or pain, seek urgent medical attention. In addition, if you notice the baby moves less, or if you suffer additional trauma, get immediate medical attention.
Complications That Can Occur
Due to their traumatic nature, car accidents account for 26% of hospitalizations of pregnant women.
Here are some of the complications and harm that may occur because of a car accident while pregnant.
Placental abruption
Placental abruption is the separation of the placenta from the uterine wall. It can deprive the baby of oxygen and other nutrients.
Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage may be a sign of placental abruption. It may also be a sign that the mother or child has sustained other serious injuries.
Direct fetal trauma
A fetus may be harmed directly by blunt trauma. The unborn child may sustain brain trauma, fractures, or organ damage.
Uterine rupture
Uterine rupture is a tear of the uterus. It may occur because of car accident trauma, seatbelt restraint, or trauma that occurred from failing to wear a seatbelt. Uterine rupture may result in bleeding, pain, contractions, and fetal distress.
Premature labor
Physical and psychological stress can contribute to premature labor. Membranes that protect the baby during pregnancy can rupture, triggering labor. The presence of fluid, pressure, cramps, or back pain can be signs of premature labor.
Miscarriage
Car accident trauma can result in miscarriage. Placental abruption, uterine rupture, direct trauma, and blood loss can be underlying causes.
Documenting the Accident and Medical Records
To receive compensation for a car accident while pregnant, you must document the accident and your medical care.
Medical records prove that you’re hurt because of the accident. They show the extent of the injury and loss and can also explain what ongoing treatment is needed. You may supplement medical records with expert testimony.
Keep records of care received. Continue to receive medical care as directed, following instructions for home care. After you receive emergency care, tell your regular healthcare provider that the accident occurred. Make sure that everyone involved in your care is aware of what happened.
Medical records are one important part of your claim. Additional evidence may include information relating to the cause of the accident, your emotional anguish, property damage losses, income losses, and more.
Protecting Your Health and Your Baby’s Future
The compensation that you receive from a car accident claim can protect your health and your baby’s future.
Insurance and Legal Considerations
You may deserve financial compensation. Texas uses a fault system to determine compensation. Many claims are paid through insurance policies.
If the insurance company refuses to pay, it may be necessary to file a legal claim. You may have a lawyer represent you. You have limited time to file a case, so don’t wait to contact a lawyer.
Does Texas allow for wrongful death claims for the death of an unborn child in a car accident?
Yes. If you tragically lose your unborn child because of a car accident, the loss may be recognized in a Texas wrongful death claim. The Texas wrongful death law explains that an unborn child counts as an individual. From fertilization until birth, an unborn child is an individual under the law. You may bring a legal claim for the loss of your child because of a car accident. See Tex. Civ. Prac. & Remedies Code § 71.001(4).
Compensation for loss of an unborn child due to a car accident may include medical bills, funeral and burial costs, and emotional anguish. A case may qualify for punitive damages.
How do I get a settlement for a miscarriage due to a car accident?
A settlement for miscarriage due to a car accident is an agreement for compensation. To receive a settlement, you must determine which party or insurance company should pay. You may then claim damages that are awarded under Texas law. You may need to file your claim in court. A settlement may occur with or without a formal legal filing.
Contact an Experienced Houston Car Accident Lawyer
If you were in a car accident while pregnant, contact Haun Mena. Talk to an experienced Houston car accident lawyer. Call or message us now.
