Being pregnant comes with its own host of concerns, but if you’re in a car accident while expecting a baby, it takes on a whole new set. If you were the victim of a car accident and you are pregnant, the following are three steps you should not skip.
- Contact the Authorities
One of the main reasons to call authorities is because it’s the law in most areas to report an accident. The police officer who arrives on scene can make a report of the incident so you have it when it comes time to file an insurance claim. This could also be used as evidence in a court case against the other driver.
Contacting the authorities means getting medical help if it is needed. As an expecting mother, you should at least have a small exam to be sure the baby is okay. If you feel you can make it to your doctor’s office on your own, be sure to have someone with you just in case the situation takes a turn for the worse. If you can feel the injuries already, or you are worried about the baby, don’t refuse a ride to the hospital in an ambulance.
Your doctor, or the on-call physician, may listen for the baby’s heartbeat, as well as conduct an ultrasound. He or she will be looking to ensure the placenta is still attached, as well as if the baby is in any distress. The doctor can then recommend follow up care if needed.
- Collect Evidence
If you are not in the right state to collect evidence yourself, ask someone to do it before heading to the hospital. Some things you or someone else should collect are pictures of the scene, contact information of witnesses and anything else that might seem helpful.
- Deal Properly With the Insurance Companies Involved
Your insurance provider will need to be notified of the accident. If the accident was the other driver’s fault, the other driver is responsible for contacting his or her insurance provider. If the other driver’s provider tries to contact you, get in touch with a car accident attorney right away.
Getting Started Today
Your baby’s health is important, and so is your own. If you are in an accident while pregnant, there are some steps you shouldn’t skip. After you have contacted the authorities and received medical care, collected evidence, and dealt with the insurance company, contact your attorney. A car accident lawyer in Tarzana, CA can help you deal further with the insurance company and the other driver should you go to trial.
Thanks to Barry P. Goldberg for their insight into car accident claims and steps to take if you’ve been in a car accident while pregnant.
