Auto accidents are stressful and frightening for everyone involved. But for pregnant women, collisions can be particularly alarming, as the health of both the mother and the unborn child may be at risk.
If you are pregnant and have been in a car accident, you have rights.
What to Do After an Accident
The first priority for a pregnant woman after a car accident is to seek medical attention immediately, to ensure the best overall outcome for both the mother and her unborn baby.
Regardless of whether the incident was a minor fender-bender or a multi-vehicle pileup, it is essential for the pregnant woman to be examined as quickly as possible. After all, auto accidents — even ones that do not result in harm to the mother-to-be — can cause injury to the unborn baby.
Even after being released by a medical professional, pregnant women who have been involved in an accident must continue to monitor themselves for symptoms that may indicate a problem.
Further treatment should be sought if vaginal bleeding, leaking fluid, abdominal pain or a change in the fetus’ movement is noticed. Pregnant women experiencing fever or chills, unusual swelling and persistent vomiting should also seek immediate medical attention.
Risks for Complications
The sudden impact of a collision or even stopping short can lead to a number of pregnancy complications.
In some auto accidents, placental abruption may take place, in which the placenta detaches from the uterus. This dangerous condition may go unnoticed by the mother, as it does not always result in observable symptoms. Accidents — particularly those resulting in placental abruption — can cause hemorrhaging, premature delivery, increased likelihood of a Cesarean section, birth defects or miscarriage.
When to Hire an Attorney
Pregnant women who have been in an auto accident may experience more serious injuries than other drivers or passengers involved, and their pregnancies thereafter are often considered to be high-risk, meaning that there is an increased danger of complications.
In many cases, additional doctor visits and medical tests are necessary to closely monitor the health of both the mother and her unborn baby.
Any pregnant woman who has been injured in a collision should seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney as quickly as possible. An attorney can protect the rights of the mother and the unborn baby by pursuing legal action against the party responsible for the accident.
Depending upon the circumstances, financial damages may be recovered to compensate for medical expenses, pain and suffering and loss of income.
Have you or your unborn baby suffered injury as a result of a car accident? If so, contact the compassionate professional attorneys of the Montgomery Dowdle Law Office, serving Boise, Idaho, and the surrounding communities, to schedule a free consultation. Our experienced lawyers specialize in handling personal injury claims related to all types of auto accidents.