Pregnant and in a Car Accident? Here’s What You Need to Know

Published by grandelaw on

Being pregnant is exciting, but it can also be nerve-wracking – especially if you’re in a car accident. If you’re expecting and find yourself in a crash in Providence or anywhere in Rhode Island, you need to know what steps to take to protect yourself and your baby.

At Louis W. Grande Injury Lawyer, we’ve helped many moms-to-be navigate the tricky waters after a car accident. Let’s break down what you need to know and do if you’re in this scary situation.

 

The Big Risks: How Car Accidents Can Affect Your Pregnancy

Car accidents can be dangerous for anyone, but when you’re pregnant, the risks are even higher. Here’s what you need to watch out for:

  1. Placental Abruption: This is when the placenta separates from the uterus too early. It’s serious and can lead to early birth or worse.
  2. Early Labor: The shock of an accident might trigger contractions before your baby is ready.
  3. Miscarriage: Especially in early pregnancy, a hard impact could lead to losing the baby.
  4. Injuries to Your Baby: While your body offers some protection, a bad crash could still hurt your little one.
  5. Your Own Injuries: If you’re hurt, it could affect your baby’s health too.

Because of these risks, it’s super important to get checked out by a doctor after any accident, even if it seems minor.

What to Do Right After a Car Accident When You’re Pregnant

If you’re in a car crash while pregnant, follow these steps:

  1. Call 911: Always call the police and ask for medical help, no matter how small the accident seems.
  2. Get Medical Care: Go to the ER or see your OB-GYN right away. Some problems don’t show up right away, so it’s better to be safe.
  3. Watch for Warning Signs: Keep an eye out for bleeding, pain, contractions, or if your baby isn’t moving as much. Call your doctor if you notice anything off.
  4. Write Everything Down: Keep track of all your doctor visits, treatments, and any symptoms you have after the crash.
  5. Talk to a Lawyer: Reach out to a personal injury attorney who knows how to handle cases involving pregnant women.

Your Legal Rights: What You Need to Know

When you’re hurt in a car accident while pregnant, the legal stuff can get complicated. Here’s what you should know:

  • You might be able to get money for extra medical care, any problems your baby has, and the stress you’re going through.
  • In Rhode Island, you usually have three years to file a claim, but it might be different if your baby is born with injuries from the crash.
  • Our state has a strict rule: if you’re even a little bit at fault for the accident, you might not be able to get any money. That’s why having a good lawyer is so important.

How Louis W. Grande Injury Lawyer Can Help You

Dealing with a car accident claim is tough, especially when you’re worried about your baby. Here’s how we can help:

  1. We’ll investigate the accident to prove it wasn’t your fault.
  2. We’ll work with doctors to understand how the crash affected you and your baby.
  3. We’ll handle the insurance companies, so you don’t have to stress about it.
  4. We’ll make sure we ask for enough money to cover all your expenses, now and in the future.
  5. We’ll negotiate for you or go to court if we need to.

Don’t Wait – Get Help Now

Being in a car accident when you’re pregnant is scary, but you don’t have to handle it alone. At Louis W. Grande Injury Lawyer, we’re here to help you through this tough time. We know what you’re going through, and we’ll fight to get you the help you need.

If you’ve been in a car accident while pregnant in Providence or anywhere in Rhode Island, give us a call today. We offer free consultations, so you can get advice without worrying about the cost.

Remember, your health and your baby’s health come first. Let us take care of the legal stuff while you focus on taking care of yourself and your little one.

Author Bio

Louis W. Grande is a Providence personal injury lawyer who founded his Rhode Island law firm of the same name in 2010. With more than 32 years of experience practicing law, he has successfully represented clients in a wide range of legal matters, including car accidents, premise liability, dog bites, medical malpractice, product liability, and other personal injury actions.

Louis received his Juris Doctor from the Hamline University School of Law and is a member of the Rhode Island Bar Association. He has received numerous accolades for his work, including being awarded Lifetime Achievement in 2017 by America’s Top 100 Attorneys and being named among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers and Top 25 Motor Vehicle Trial Lawyers in 2017.

LinkedIn | State Bar Association | Avvo | Google