What You Should Do if You Get into a Car Accident While Pregnant?

Traffic collisions are the leading cause of accidental injuries in our region. According to data provided by the Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP), approximately 1,334 people were killed, and tens of thousands more were hurt in crashes in 2021 alone. A car accident can be a frightening experience for anyone—especially for pregnant women. In this article, our Toledo car accident lawyers highlight four steps to take if you are involved in a motor vehicle collision while pregnant. 

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

All car accident injuries require immediate medical attention. Prompt medical care is even more important for pregnant women involved in traffic collisions. As noted in a peer-reviewed study published by the Association for the Advancement of Automotive Medicine, a pregnant occupant involved in a car crash faces some unique medical challenges. Apart from all of the other injuries that can be suffered in a crash, additional complications can include: 

• Placental abruption; 
• Uterine rupture or laceration; 
• Direct fetal injury; and
• Loss of fetus. 

Report and Document the Crash

In Ohio, any accident that results in an injury should be reported to law enforcement. An expecting mother involved in a crash needs immediate medical care. When in a position to do so, it is crucial that victims are able to take steps towards documenting their collision. Ohio is a fault-based motor vehicle accident jurisdiction. To get justice and full financial support, you will need to prove fault. An experienced Toledo, OH car accident lawyer can help. 

Avoid Offering a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Company Representative

The large insurance companies are not on the side of victims and their families. A pregnant person involved in a car crash has the right to take the time to focus on themselves, their health, their pregnancy, and their loved ones. You are not required to give a recorded statement to an insurance company. Indeed, it is not in your best interest to speak directly to insurance adjusters after a serious crash. 

Know Your Rights Under Ohio Law: Get Professional Help

In Ohio, injured victims have the right to recover full and fair financial compensation from the at-fault party. This includes damages for any pregnancy-related injuries, including injuries to the fetus and emotional distress caused by harm to the fetus or loss of the fetus. An experienced Ohio car accident lawyer will help you and your family fight for justice, accountability, and the maximum amount of financial support after a serious collision. 

Contact Our Toledo Auto Accident Lawyers Today

At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, our Toledo car accident lawyers are tireless, aggressive advocates for victims and their families. If you were hurt in a crash while pregnant, we are here to help you get justice and the maximum available financial compensation. Contact our law firm now for a no cost, no obligation review of your case. From our Maumee law office, we represent injured victims throughout Lucas County, including in Toledo, Oregon, Sylvania, and Waterville.