(275+)Unfortunately, car accidents remain a serious safety risk in our region. Crashes happen to good drivers and bad drivers. Safe drivers and risky drivers. Being involved in a motor vehicle collision can be extremely scary. That is especially true if you are expecting a child.
Pregnant women face additional risks. The claims process can also be more complicated. At Gibbons & Crichton, we have the experience that victims can trust. In this article, our Philadelphia car accident attorney provides a step-by-step overview of what to do if you are involved in a motor vehicle collision while pregnant in Pennsylvania.
Pregnant Women and Car Accidents: Know the Risks
For pregnant women, getting into a car (whether as a driver or passenger) can be nerve-racking (and with good reason). A study cited by the National Library of Medicine found that approximately one percent of pregnant women will be involved in a traffic collision at some point during their pregnancy. Of course, pregnant women face all of the same risks that come from a car accident as does everyone else. Beyond that, there are some additional risks, including:
- Placental Abruption: A crash can cause the placenta to separate from the wall of the uterus. It is a serious health complication that deprives the baby of oxygen and nutrients. Some initial symptoms may include abdominal pain, bleeding, and contractions.
- Premature Labor: Trauma from a car accident can trigger contractions before the pregnancy has reached term. Preterm birth creates serious risks for the baby, including developmental delays. Even a seemingly minor collision can cause premature labor.
- Direct Fetal Injury: Although the uterus provides protection, a violent impact can injure the fetus. Seat belts and airbags reduce but do not eliminate this risk. Fetal injuries may include skull fractures, brain trauma, or internal bleeding.
- Miscarriage. Tragically, severe accidents may cause the loss of the pregnancy. This can occur from placental damage, uterine rupture, or other trauma-related complications. Miscarriage represents one of the gravest risks of a crash during pregnancy.
- Maternal Injuries Affecting Pregnancy: Car accidents can leave the mother with broken bones, internal bleeding, or head injuries. These conditions may indirectly harm the baby by limiting blood flow, oxygen supply, or maternal health.
- Emotional Trauma: Car crashes in Philadelphia during pregnancy create severe emotional stress. Anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can affect maternal health and fetal development.
Involved in a Car Accident While Pregnant in Philadelphia? Five Steps to Take
Step #1: Seek Immediate Medical Attention (including from OBGYN)
Professional medical care is a must after a motor vehicle collision, especially for pregnant women. Even if you feel fine, complications such as placental abruption or preterm labor may not show symptoms right away. Go to the emergency room and request an evaluation from your obstetrician or a specialist. Minor crashes still require a comprehensive exam if you are pregnant.
Step #2: Report the Crash to Law Enforcement
All car accidents in Philadelphia with physical injuries or significant property damage should be reported to law enforcement. An official report provides an objective record of what happened. Along with other things, the responding officers will document the parties involved, witness statements, and initial findings of fault.
Step #3: Notify Your Insurance Company
You should notify your own insurance company that you were involved in a crash. Doing so is especially important because Pennsylvania is a no-fault state. In doing so, you only need to provide basic facts about the crash. You should avoid detailed statements at this point in the process. Insurance companies often look for reasons to reduce payouts. Prompt notice preserves your right to benefits under your policy.
Step #4: Consult With a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer
The sooner you speak to an attorney, the better. An attorney helps you protect your legal rights and financial recovery. Car accidents involving pregnancy require special consideration of medical risks and damages. Your Philadelphia, PA car accident attorney can also help you manage all aspects of the claims process, including settlement negotiations with the insurance company.
Step #5: Seek All Necessary Follow-Up Care
If you are pregnant, proper follow-up care is a must. Do not stop treatment after the emergency visit. Attend every follow-up appointment with your OBGYN and other providers. Ongoing care ensures your pregnancy is monitored and complications are caught early. Your health and the health and well-being of your baby deserve the highest level of care and attention.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for Victims
If you or your partner was involved in a motor vehicle crash while pregnant, you and your family must be able to get justice and full financial compensation. Do not rely on any insurance company to look out for your rights or your interests. A top-tier Philadelphia car accident attorney or a victim can help. Along with other damages, you may be able to recover compensation for:
- Vehicle damage;
- Emergency room care;
- Hospital bills;
- Other health care costs;
- OBGYN care;
- Physical therapy;
- Mental health counseling;
- Lost wages;
- Loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering;
- Mental trauma;
- Disability or disfigurement;
- Fetal injury;
- Wrongful death of the mother; and
- The wrongful death of the baby.
Why Pregnant Car Accident Victims Trust Gibbons & Crichton
Car accidents are complicated for pregnant women. It is normal to have a lot of questions about what comes next. You (and your future child) must be able to get all necessary medical care after a crash. Next comes your claim. That is where the team at Gibbons & Crichton can help. With more than $100 million in compensation secured for victims and their families, we have the case results and client testimonials that you can trust. Our Philadelphia car accident lawyer for pregnant women provides free, confidential, and no obligation initial consultations.
Set Up a Free Consultation With Our Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Today
At Gibbons & Crichton, our Philadelphia auto accident attorneys are always prepared to go the extra mile to do right by victims and their families. If you or your partner is pregnant and was involved in a serious motor vehicle crash, we are more than ready to help. Justice matters. Contact us for a free, no obligation initial consultation. We handle car accident claims throughout all of Southeastern Pennsylvania, including in 19102, 19103, 19104, 19106, and communities beyond.
