Can a Car Accident Affect Pregnancy?

A car accident can affect pregnancy by causing harm to the mother and baby. While no one wants to think about such a frightening scenario, it’s important to understand how a car accident can affect pregnancy and what steps to take to protect yourself and your unborn child.

If you were pregnant and were hit in a car accident, seek medical help right away and then contact a Phoenix car accident lawyer for advice.

Risks of Car Accidents During Pregnancy

Car accidents can pose several risks to pregnant women and their babies, depending on the severity of the collision and the stage of pregnancy. Some of these risks include:

• Placental abruption: This occurs when the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterine wall before delivery, which can lead to heavy bleeding and decreased oxygen supply to the baby.
  
• Preterm labor: The trauma and stress of a car accident can sometimes trigger premature contractions and labor, especially in the later stages of pregnancy.
  
• Miscarriage: In the first trimester, a severe car accident can cause a miscarriage, particularly if there is direct trauma to the abdomen. See a doctor if you see any signs of miscarriage after a car accident, like unusual bleeding.
• Fetal injury: In some cases, the force of a collision can cause direct injury to the fetus, such as fractures, brain damage, or even death.
  
• Maternal injury: Pregnant women are also at risk of injuries such as whiplash, broken bones, and internal bleeding, which can complicate pregnancy and delivery.

It’s always best to err on the side of caution and seek medical attention after any collision, no matter how minor it may seem. Early detection and treatment of problems can help the health of mothers and their babies and also help them with any accident claims.

For a free legal consultation, call 866-499-8989

What to Do After a Car Accident During Pregnancy

If you’re involved in a car accident while pregnant, the first and most important step is to assess your condition and that of your baby. Some key things to do after an accident include:

• Check for injuries: Take a moment to check yourself for any obvious injuries, such as cuts, bruises, or pain in your abdomen or back. If you’re experiencing any concerning symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding, contractions, or decreased fetal movement, notify emergency personnel right away.
  
• Call for help: Even if you feel fine, it’s important to call 911 and request medical assistance. Let the dispatcher know that you are pregnant and give them as much information as possible about your condition and the accident.
  
• Get medical attention: Allow the paramedics to assess your condition and transport you to the hospital if necessary. Even if you don’t require emergency care, it’s a good idea to follow up with your obstetrician as soon as possible after the accident.
  
• Document the accident: If you’re able, try to collect information about the accident, such as the other driver’s contact and insurance details, photos of the damage, and witness statements. This can be important for any legal or insurance claims you may need to make later.
  
• Follow your doctor’s orders: After the accident, your obstetrician may recommend additional monitoring, testing, or treatment to ensure the health of you and your baby. Be sure to follow all of their instructions and attend all scheduled appointments.

Remember, the most important thing is to prioritize your health and safety, as well as that of your unborn child. Don’t hesitate to seek help and support from medical professionals, family, and friends for support. Zanes Law can also help you with legal support if there is cause for an accident claim.

Preventing Car Accidents During Pregnancy

While not all car accidents can be prevented, there are steps that pregnant women can take to reduce their risk of a miscarriage after a car accident:

• Always wear a seatbelt: Wearing a properly positioned seatbelt is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of injury in a car accident. The lap belt should be positioned below the belly, across the hips and upper thighs, while the shoulder belt should be placed between the breasts and to the side of the belly.
  
• Adjust your seat: Pregnant women should position their seat as far back as possible while still being able to comfortably reach the pedals and steering wheel. This can help reduce the risk of airbag injuries in the event of a collision.
• Avoid distractions: Distracted driving, such as texting or eating while behind the wheel, can greatly increase the risk of accidents. Pregnant women should make a special effort to stay focused and avoid any activities that take their attention away from the road.
• Take frequent breaks: As pregnancy progresses, it’s common to experience fatigue, back pain, and other discomforts that can make long car trips challenging. Taking frequent breaks to stretch, walk around, and use the restroom can help reduce these symptoms and improve overall safety.
• Consider alternative transportation: In some cases, it may be safer or more comfortable for pregnant women to use alternative forms of transportation, such as public transit, ridesharing services, or having a friend or family member drive them.

By taking these precautions and staying alert and aware while on the road, pregnant women can help reduce their risk of car accidents and help limit how much a car accident can affect a pregnancy.

Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today

Seeking Legal Guidance After a Car Accident During Pregnancy

Sadly, a car accident can affect a pregnancy. If you or your unborn baby was harmed because of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. 

However, navigating the legal system and insurance claims process can be complex and overwhelming, especially when you’re also dealing with the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy. That’s where an experienced personal injury attorney can help. They can:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim
  
• Handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies
  
• Coordinate with medical professionals to document your injuries and treatment
  
• Calculate the full value of your damages, including future medical needs
  
• Advocate for your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve

If you’re considering pursuing a legal claim after a car accident during pregnancy, it’s important to act quickly, as there are time limits for filing personal injury lawsuits. Schedule a consultation with Zanes Law as soon as you can for legal advice.

Call or text 866-499-8989 or complete a
Free Case Evaluation form

Car Accidents Blog Posts:

Why Bruce Jenner’s Accident is a Lesson for ALL Drivers Out There

Every media outlet has a scope on the recent and fatal Bruce Jenner car crash.  Many accounts have recalled the incident in varying detail but none look promising for any party involved including the

Phoenix Light Rail Crash

A very major and scary crash recently closed down a major Central and Indian School Road intersection. Although the crash has long been cleared since Saturday, the collision between a

Tracy Morgan Lawsuit Finally Settles

Many fans of the famous (now ended) sitcom, 30 Rock, anxiously followed the news after beloved actor and comedian Tracy Morgan was involved in a trucking accident. A Walmart tractor-trailer

And Then It Happens To You… A Car Accident.

An accident victim who was injured in a car accident in Tucson, Arizona describes her experience in this guest post. You hear about them all the time. You have even witnessed some right in