Pregnancy Complications After a Car Crash? What You Need to Know to Protect Yourself and Your Baby

Car accidents are traumatic experiences for anyone involved, but for a pregnant woman, the risks are much higher. The sudden impact of a crash can put immense strain on the body, increasing the likelihood of serious complications that could affect both the mother and the unborn child. Even in minor accidents, the forces involved can lead to internal injuries, stress-induced complications, or long-term health concerns. Beyond the physical dangers, the emotional toll can be overwhelming as expectant mothers worry about the health and safety of their baby. Understanding these risks, the legal options available, and the steps to take to address or avoid potential pregnancy complications after a car crash can make all the difference in protecting both mother and child.

• The Legal Framework for Pregnant Women in Car Accidents
• Understanding the Risks: Pregnancy Complications from a Car Crash
• What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident While Pregnant
• Recognizing the Signs of Pregnancy Complications After a Car Accident
• Legal Options and Compensation After a Car Accident During Pregnancy
• The Role of a Car Accident Pregnancy Lawyer
• Frequently Asked Questions

The Legal Framework for Pregnant Women in Car Accidents

In California, the law recognizes the fetus as an “infant in the car,” which means it has its own legal claim, just as if it were born. This is especially important for pregnant women involved in car accidents because the unborn child’s injuries may give rise to a separate claim in addition to the mother’s. If you witness your unborn child being harmed in an accident, your emotional distress claim is also valid under California’s personal injury laws.

California law also allows close relatives who witness a loved one (including the unborn child) being injured to file a claim. This is known as a bystander claim for “negligent infliction of emotional distress” (NIED). A key case that established this legal precedent is Dillon v. Legg (1968), in which the California Supreme Court ruled that a mother who witnessed her child being struck by a car could recover damages for emotional distress. Under this ruling, a pregnant woman who sees her unborn child harmed in an accident may have grounds for an NIED claim, provided she was near the accident scene, directly perceived the injury, and has a close relationship with the victim.

In some cases, if a pregnant woman is severely injured or loses her unborn child due to a car accident, her spouse or family members may also have a wrongful death claim. California law allows families to seek damages for the loss of the unborn child, including emotional suffering and medical expenses.

With such laws in place, it is essential for pregnant women to understand their rights and take the necessary steps to protect both their health and their legal standing.

Understanding the Risks: Pregnancy Complications from a Car Crash

A car accident, even a seemingly minor one, can result in severe complications for both the mother and the fetus. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to certain types of injuries, and the impact of a crash can lead to complications such as:

• Placental Abruption: The placenta detaches from the uterine wall, which can cause heavy bleeding and threaten the pregnancy.
• Miscarriage: The physical trauma from the accident could increase the risk of miscarriage, particularly during the early stages of pregnancy.
• Preterm Labor: The stress and physical shock of an accident can induce preterm labor, leading to premature birth and potential long-term health problems for the baby.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident While Pregnant

If you’re involved in a car accident during pregnancy, it’s essential to stay calm and act quickly. Here are the immediate steps you should take:

1. Ensure Safety: First, ensure your safety and the safety of others involved in the accident. Move to a safe area if possible, but avoid any sudden movements that could cause further harm.
2. Call Emergency Services: No matter how minor the accident seems, always call 911. Let them know you’re pregnant so that medical professionals can provide the appropriate care.
3. Gather Information: Collect the contact information and insurance details of all parties involved. Take note of the time, location, and any other relevant details of the accident.
4. Stay Calm: Stress can exacerbate any injuries, particularly during pregnancy. Focus on deep, slow breathing to stay calm.

These immediate actions can be crucial in ensuring that you receive the medical attention and legal support you need.

Recognizing the Signs of Pregnancy Complications After a Car Accident

Not all pregnancy complications are immediately visible, so it’s essential to stay vigilant for any signs of injury or distress following a car accident. Some potential symptoms that require urgent medical attention include:

• Abdominal Pain: This could be a sign of internal injuries or complications with the pregnancy. Even minor pain should be checked by a healthcare professional.
• Vaginal Bleeding: Spotting or bleeding can indicate placental abruption or other serious issues.
• Fetal Movement Changes: If you notice a decrease in fetal movement, this may signal distress in the baby.
• Severe Headaches or Dizziness: These could indicate potential head trauma or other complications affecting your pregnancy.
• Contractions: Unusual contractions or cramping can signal preterm labor.

Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking medical attention. Trust your instincts and get checked out by a healthcare provider as soon as possible after the accident, as it can be the difference between life and death.

Legal Options and Compensation After a Car Accident During Pregnancy

When a pregnant woman is injured in a car accident, there are a variety of legal options to explore, both for her injuries and those of the unborn child. Compensation may be available for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes costs related to prenatal care, treatment for injuries, and any other related healthcare expenses.
• Lost Wages: If the accident causes you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
• Pain and Suffering: These non-economic damages address the emotional and physical distress caused by the accident.
• Wrongful Death or Fetal Injury: If the accident results in a miscarriage or fetal injury, a wrongful death claim may be filed. In California, this can be a complex process, but it provides vital legal recourse for the loss of a pregnancy.

Having a specialized lawyer on your side is crucial for navigating these claims. They can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and handle the legal complexities associated with car accidents during pregnancy.

The Role of a Car Accident Pregnancy Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer specializing in pregnancy-related cases can provide much-needed support after a car accident. They help gather evidence, such as medical records and accident reports, to build your case. Additionally, they can handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring that you receive a fair settlement you may be entitled to for your injuries and any ongoing care.

Choosing a lawyer who understands the unique challenges of pregnancy-related cases is essential. They can tailor their approach to your specific needs and help you navigate the legal complexities, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Protecting Your Health and Legal Rights After a Car Accident During Pregnancy

Pregnancy complications after a car crash can turn your world upside down in an instant. The physical trauma, emotional distress, and potential risks to your unborn child make it crucial to take the right steps immediately. At LMS Law, we fight for the rights of pregnant women injured in car accidents, ensuring they receive the medical care and financial compensation they deserve. 

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, call us today at (415) 400–7000 or contact us online for a free consultation. If you can’t come to us, we’ll come to you—at home or in the hospital. Don’t wait—protect your health and your baby’s future today.

FAQs

What are the risks of a car accident during pregnancy?
Car accidents during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, premature labor, placental abruption, and injury to both the mother and baby.

How can a car accident affect the health of my baby?
A car accident can cause fetal distress, low birth weight, or developmental issues, depending on the severity of the impact.

Can I file a personal injury claim if I experience pregnancy complications after a car accident?
You may be able to file a personal injury claim if pregnancy complications arise from a car accident, as long as you can prove the accident caused the injuries.

The above is not meant to be legal advice, and every case is different. Feel free to reach out to us at LMS Law if you have any questions. Information contained in this content and website should not be relied on as legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice on your specific situation. 

Visiting this site or relying on information gleaned from the site does not create an attorney-client relationship. The content on this website is the property of LMS Law and may not be used without the written consent thereof.