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Car Accident While Pregnant: What You Need To Know

The journey of pregnancy is a profound and joyous experience, but when life takes an unexpected turn, such as a car accident while pregnant, the challenges can be overwhelming. This comprehensive exploration aims to shed light on the intricacies of pregnancy and car accidents, focusing on the emotional, medical, and legal dimensions of this unique intersection.

The Effects of Emotional Trauma on Your Unborn Child

Beyond the physical consequences, emotional trauma resulting from a car accident while pregnant can significantly impact the unborn child. Research suggests that maternal stress and anxiety during pregnancy may lead to adverse outcomes, including preterm birth and developmental issues. It is imperative for expectant mothers to prioritize their mental health, seeking support from healthcare professionals or counselors to navigate the emotional aftermath of the car accident. Addressing emotional trauma not only fosters the well-being of the mother but also contributes to creating a nurturing environment for the developing fetus.

Can a Car Accident Cause a Miscarriage?

The potential link between a car accident and miscarriage is a concerning aspect for expectant mothers. While scientific evidence on direct causation remains inconclusive, understanding the risks and recognizing signs of miscarriage after a car accident is crucial. 

Signs of miscarriage after car accident

After a car accident while pregnant, it is crucial to be vigilant for potential symptoms of pregnancy complications. 

These symptoms may be signs of miscarriage after a car accident:

  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Vaginal Bleeding
  • Vomiting
  • Headaches
  • Chills or fever
  • Dizziness
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Neck and back pain
  • Sudden cessation of fetal movement

Recognizing these signs and seeking immediate medical attention is paramount to assessing and addressing any complications from the car accident. Timely intervention ensures the well-being of both the expectant mother and the unborn child, mitigating potential risks associated with the traumatic event.

Can You Sue Someone for Causing a Miscarriage?

In the aftermath of a miscarriage resulting from a car accident, seeking legal recourse may be a consideration. Determining whether you can sue someone for causing a miscarriage involves navigating complex legal nuances. Establishing causation, proving negligence, and understanding the legal grounds for such claims require expert legal guidance. You can contact us for a free consultation.

What Are Your Legal Options Following a Car Accident While Pregnant? 

Understanding your legal options after a car accident while pregnant is essential for seeking justice and compensation. Determining liability and assessing damages requires a thorough understanding of the legal avenues available. You may seek legal experts to evaluate your compensation due to a car accident while pregnant including: 

  • Compensation for medical expenses, past and additional treatments.
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Lost wages and lost the capacity to work.
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Emotional Misery
  • Property Damage
  • Future care needs
  • Funeral and burial expenses

Understanding your legal rights enables informed decision-making, advocating for both your rights and the well-being of the unborn child in the aftermath of a car accident.

Is The Wrongful Death of a Fetus Recognized in Arizona?

In brief, yes, Arizona acknowledges the right to pursue legal action for the wrongful death of a fetus, even in cases such as a miscarriage resulting from a car accident, as established by a 1985 law review. Initially, the state had prohibited parents from filing a wrongful death lawsuit for a viable fetus, but this stance changed after the Arizona High Court revisited the issue in the case of Summerfield vs. Superior Court Maricopa Cty. In this case, the Summerfield parents initially sued a doctor for medical malpractice, but the case transitioned to a wrongful death claim after the court ruled in favor of such cases.

By officially recognizing a fetus as a living being, Arizona became the 33rd state in the U.S. to permit a wrongful death lawsuit on behalf of a fetus, even in instances of miscarriage following a car accident. While all 50 states have now enacted laws acknowledging certain individuals’ right to file a wrongful death claim, there is variation in how courts handle such cases involving the loss of an unborn child across the United States.

Although the majority of states permit wrongful death actions for a fetus, there is divergence regarding whether the fetus must have been viable for such an action to be valid. Some states require signs of movement in the womb before a miscarriage, while others recognize this right regardless of fetal viability. In states that do not acknowledge wrongful death claims for a fetus, alternative legal avenues, such as intentional or negligent infliction of emotional trauma on the parents, may be recognized as means to seek compensation for the repercussions of a miscarriage.

Car Accident Miscarriage Settlement

Knowing the settlement procedures is necessary while navigating the aftermath of a vehicle accident that causes a miscarriage. Evaluating a car accident miscarriage settlement entails taking into account several factors, including future medical costs, emotional distress, and possible long-term effects. Obtaining legal counsel is essential to guarantee that the settlement sufficiently pays for both present and future costs, providing financial support for the special difficulties associated with a miscarriage brought on by a car accident.

Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm has more than 15 years of experience in helping clients who have had a Car Accident while pregnant. Our offices are conveniently located in nearby Chandler, Peoria, and North Phoenix, and we can meet in-person or over the phone or via video call.  You can contact us for a free consultation, or read on to find out more.

Finding An Accident Attorney

If you had a car accident while pregnant, a miscarriage due to a car accident, or lost a child before you even had the chance to get to spend time with them can be devastating. The physical and emotional trauma from the loss can be difficult and when your unborn child’s loss was due to another party’s negligence, the situation can become even more challenging to bear.

Understanding the law, and fighting for justice and compensation can be complicated and frustrating during a time when you should be focused on healing. Contacting an experienced attorney can help as they know the law and can help ensure that your rights are protected. You don’t have to go through the difficult process of seeking a legal remedy. Contact our experienced and compassionate attorneys at Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm in your area, today!

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Brenden Lewis
a month ago

So I suffered a tragic motorcycle accident leaving me injured and quite unhappy…… also the bike was totaled. This all star law team secured a large settlement for all my suffering. This process was very well advised by an aggressive and determined lawyer. All I can say is now I’m left a very happy man. Thank you karissa for working quick to bring my tragic story to a much warmer end. Just call them! You won’t regret it!

Shayianna Guyton
a month ago

They literally conversed with me every step of the way throughout my journey. Thank you guys

I was very pleased with my experience. They kept me informed the whole way through the process and checked on me through my treatment. Definitely would recommend

My dad was in a car accident and during those difficult moments, Phoenix Accident and Injury Law firm has been there for us. They care for their clients, will walk you through everything you need to know step by step, they follow up, very easy to reach and fast to respond. And one thing is for sure! they will fight for you! we felt safe with them! Me and the entire family thank them all so much for all their help! These people that works here are amazing!

Jenifer henke
a year ago

I was in an accident that resulted in getting whiplash and a concussion. I contacted Phoenix Accident and Injury Law Firm that day. Everyone was helpful (Rhea, Karissa, and Jeff) from the very beginning to the very end. They sent me to a physical therapy location that was pretty far away but the doctor and physical therapist were very kind so I did make the trek. They handled all aspects of my case in a timely manner and answered all my questions. They got the max amount possible, and from that, paid the medical bills and took their fair cut. I would not hesitate to recommend them to family or friends.

I would give ten stars if I could. This law firm is about as professional and friendly as it gets!! They stayed in constant contact with me and answered every question I had. I got a settlement that was higher than I expected and will definitely use this law firm again. I highly recommend hiring them to handle your legal issues!!

Fernando Lopez
a year ago

My experience with this team was superb, as they were ongoing with the case and making sure that the client gets what they deserve. I recommend anyone looking for a accident law group that this is the team you want to be representing you!!

Kimberly Legaspi
2 years ago

What can I say about the Thompson Law Firm? They are AMAZING!! It’s never fun when you need an accident lawyer because you are pretty much in a bad place. Shane and the staff have been wonderful, kept me informed at every step of this process. I would recommend Thompson Law Firm to anyone, in fact, I have referred several friends already!! Thank you Thompson Law Firm for everything you did for me!!!

Amanda Olney
2 years ago

These guys were absolutely amazing. They were very clear with me about what I needed to do on my end and I saw fast results. I just recommended them to a friend a week ago and he also dealt with my mother's case. I wouldn't see anyone else.

Malik
2 years ago

Karissa and Shane were amazing! They were there for any questions I had and checked up on me regularly. Highly recommend these guys!!

Karissa Murphy
2 years ago

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