There are few occasions more monumental or joyous than the birth of a child. Leading up to that big day, pregnant women do everything possible to ensure the health and safety of their unborn child: maintaining a healthy diet, getting plenty of exercise and rest, and avoiding dangerous situations.
With car accidents being a leading cause of accidental death and injury, it might seem prudent for pregnant women to avoid car transport for the entire nine months, but that’s simply not practical. Instead, pregnant women are encouraged to follow certain safety protocols to dramatically reduce the risk of serious injury or death. If you have been involved in a car accident while pregnant, a League City car accident lawyer can help you determine how to proceed.
Car Accidents and the Risk of Miscarriage in Texas
Driving during pregnancy carries inherent risks, including an increased risk of miscarriage. In fact, approximately 3,000 annual miscarriages are blamed on motor vehicle accidents, many of them minor. To reduce the risk of miscarriage and other harm to you and your unborn baby, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends that pregnant women follow the safety tips below:
- Always buckle up.
- Position the shoulder belt, lap belt, and seat correctly.
- Leave airbags turned on.
- Seek immediate medical assistance following an accident even if it’s a fender bender and/or there are no apparent injuries.
Although the mother’s own body provides some protection from harm to the baby, the impact of a motor vehicle collision can still result in serious injury. Common prenatal injuries related to car accidents include:
- Placental abruption, which occurs when the placenta separates from the uterus;
- Rupture of the protective amniotic sac;
- Traumatic injuries to the mother that consequently affect the fetus.
Sadly, the injuries above can lead to miscarriage and other medical complications. In some cases, overlooked fetal injuries result in physical or cognitive delays, chronic disability, or even stillbirth.
If you were involved in a car accident due to another’s negligence and suffered a miscarriage as a result, or your newborn suffered related birth injuries, you may be able to obtain compensation for medical expenses, emotional pain and suffering, and other associated costs. No amount of money can make up for the pain of losing a child, but it may give you the space and time to begin the healing process.
Wrongful Death
According to the Texas Wrongful Death Act, survivors may obtain compensation for deaths caused by careless or negligent actions, including miscarriages resulting from an accident at any stage of fetal development.
If you miscarried or your child was stillborn following a car accident, you may wish to bring a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent party. As with all wrongful death cases in Texas, there is a three-month statute of limitations during which you must file a claim. At Burwell Nebout Trial Lawyers, we understand the highly-sensitive nature of these cases, as well as the fact that three months is a very small window of time for grieving parents. Our compassionate legal team is here to advocate on your behalf so that you can focus on healing.
Contact Burwell Nebout Trial Lawyers Today
If you have lost an unborn child due to the negligence of another, the skilled legal team at Burwell Nebout Trial Lawyers can help. We understand the emotional complexities surrounding the loss of a child, and we are here to support you during this very difficult time. Do not attempt to navigate this process on your own; you’ve been through enough. Call Burwell Nebout Trial Lawyers today at 281-645-5000 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.
