For many women, pregnancy is a time of expectant joy. But when something goes awry, the aftermath can be devastating to the whole family. After a collision with another motorist, maternal-fetal trauma could put both the mother and child at risk.
We understand how overwhelming it can be to experience complications while you await the birth of your child. So we put together a brief explanation to help you understand whether you may be able to sue for pregnancy complications following a car accident.
Does California Allow Lawsuits for Post-Accident Pregnancy Complications?
Yes, you can sue for pregnancy complications after a car accident in California. But you can only hold the other party liable if the accident was caused by the other driver’s carelessness. Because of this breach of duty, you may be entitled to seek compensation for injuries to yourself and your unborn child.
Because California law recognizes the unborn child as a potential victim, it allows personal claims for any harm your baby suffered during the collision. Therefore, it may be possible to recover non-economic and economic damages for both of you, such as medical costs, lost income, pain, suffering, emotional distress, and even wrongful death if a miscarriage or stillbirth occurs.
Common Pregnancy Complications Following a Car Accident
Pregnancy alters how the body handles impact, making even low-speed crashes risky. Symptoms like bleeding, pain, or contractions might not appear immediately, but serious medical conditions that affect both you and your baby may develop later. It is essential to seek immediate medical care after any accident during pregnancy, regardless of how you feel, to check for these hidden complications.
There are several pregnancy complications that you may experience post-collision, including a detached placenta, preterm labor, uterine rupture, miscarriage, and stillbirth. Even your baby is at risk for direct fetal trauma and may experience head injuries or internal damage from sudden impact with the seatbelt, steering wheel, or airbag.
Ask an Experienced Attorney If You Can Sue for Pregnancy Complications
Now that you know that you can sue for pregnancy complications following a car accident, it is time to get the legal help you and your child need to move on from this unfortunate event. Let us guide you through the claims process with compassion, so you can better understand your legal options.
Since 1947, our legal team has championed our clients in negotiations and beyond. Reach out to our San Diego law office now to schedule a complimentary, personal case evaluation.