Can Car Accidents Cause Miscarriage?

The question “Can a car accident cause a miscarriage?” can be a terrifying one for expectant mothers after experiencing a collision. Road accidents can, in fact, cause a miscarriage and many other issues. We understand that the sudden impact, stress, and potential for accident injuries raise a lot of questions and anxieties.

This guide aims to provide expecting mothers with general information about the risks associated with car accidents during pregnancy. It’s important to remember that every situation is unique, and this shouldn’t be considered a substitute for professional legal advice. If you’ve been in an accident while pregnant, talk to an experienced Phoenix car accident lawyer.

Car Accidents Explained by a Personal Injury Lawyer

Car accidents can be frightening for anyone, but for pregnant women, the potential consequences can feel even more overwhelming. A Phoenix personal injury lawyer familiar with pregnancy complications can explain how car accidents can impact expectant mothers and their unborn babies.

Here are some of the ways a car accident can cause harm during pregnancy:

• Direct Injury. A blow to the mother’s abdomen from the steering wheel, seat belt, or other objects in the car can injure the developing baby, especially in the early weeks of pregnancy when the essential organs are forming.
• Placental Abruption. The placenta nourishes the baby throughout pregnancy. A strong impact can cause the placenta to separate from the uterine wall, cutting off the baby’s blood supply and oxygen. That can be life-threatening and lead to premature birth or fetal death.
• Uterine Rupture. A severe accident can tear the muscles of the uterus, which can put both mother and baby at risk of serious health problems and may necessitate an emergency C-section.
• Preterm Labor. The stress and trauma of an accident can trigger contractions and lead to preterm labor, resulting in the birth of a premature baby who may face breathing difficulties, feeding problems, and other health challenges.
• Miscarriage. While a miscarriage can happen for many reasons, car accidents can increase the risk, especially in the first trimester when the pregnancy is most delicate.

You may be entitled to sue for pregnancy complications after a car accident. However, it’s important to seek medical attention right away, even if you don’t feel any immediate pain. A doctor can assess your health and the health of the baby. Depending on the severity of the accident and your injuries, you may require ongoing medical care throughout your pregnancy.

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

Who Is Liable for Damages in a Car Accident?

In many states, fault for a car accident is determined based on the specific circumstances. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, they may be held liable for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Here are some examples of negligent driver behavior that could lead to an accident:

• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Distracted driving (texting, talking on the phone, etc.)
• Speeding
• Reckless driving (running red lights, ignoring stop signs, etc.)
• Following too closely

Suppose you believe the other driver was at fault for the accident, and you’ve suffered injuries or pregnancy complications. In that case, a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and Arizona DUI laws.

Economic, Non-Economic, and Punitive Damages After a Car Accident

The aftermath of a car accident, especially when pregnant, can cause significant financial strain and emotional hardship. While there is no average settlement amount for a car accident while pregnant, Understanding the different types of damages you may be entitled to claim in a personal injury lawsuit can help ease some of the burden. Here’s a breakdown of the three main categories of damages:

Economic Damages

These are the out-of-pocket costs associated with your injuries and pregnancy complications. Economic damages are typically easier to calculate because they involve receipts and bills. Examples of economic damages include:

• Medical expenses. That covers the cost of doctor visits, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and any other medical care related to your accident injuries and pregnancy complications.
• Lost wages. If you’re unable to work due to your injuries or need to take time off for doctor’s appointments or bed rest, you can recover compensation for lost income.
• Loss of earning capacity. In some cases, severe injuries may prevent you from returning to your previous job. A personal injury lawyer can help calculate the future income you may have lost due to your injuries.
• Property damage. If your car was damaged in the accident, the repairs or replacement costs can be included in your economic damages.

Non-Economic Damages

These damages are more subjective and compensate for the pain and suffering you’ve endured as a result of the accident. Non-economic damages can be harder to quantify but are still very real. Examples of non-economic damages include:

• Pain and suffering. That covers the physical and emotional pain you’ve experienced due to your injuries. It can also encompass the emotional distress of a miscarriage or the fear and anxiety associated with a difficult pregnancy after an accident.
• Loss of enjoyment of life. If your injuries prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, you may be entitled to compensation for this loss. For expecting mothers, this could include limitations on physical activity or the inability to enjoy the experience of pregnancy fully.
• Mental anguish. The emotional trauma of the accident and the stress of dealing with injuries or pregnancy complications can take a significant toll. Mental anguish is a compensable non-economic damage.
• Loss of consortium. That applies to the loss of companionship, love, and intimacy due to your injuries.

Punitive Damages

These damages are awarded in rare cases to punish the at-fault driver for egregious behavior. Punitive damages are not meant to compensate the victim but rather to deter similar reckless actions in the future. For instance, if the other driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol and caused the accident, punitive damages might be awarded.

It’s important to note that damage laws can vary by state. A personal injury lawyer can advise you on the specific types of damages you may be entitled to claim in your case.

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Signs of Miscarriage After a Car Accident

If you’ve been in a car accident while pregnant, it’s natural to be worried about the health of your baby. While some expecting mothers experience car accidents with no complications, others may face the possibility of miscarriage. Here’s a list of warning signs to watch out for after a car accident:

• Vaginal bleeding. This can be a sign of miscarriage, but it can also be implantation bleeding or spotting early in pregnancy. If you experience any vaginal bleeding after a car accident, it’s crucial to see a doctor right away to determine the cause.
• Severe abdominal cramps. Strong cramping in your lower abdomen can be a sign of miscarriage. However, cramping can also occur during a healthy pregnancy, so it’s important to be aware of other symptoms.
• Lower back pain. Pain in your lower back can sometimes accompany cramping and vaginal bleeding during a miscarriage.
• Loss of pregnancy symptoms. If you were experiencing typical pregnancy symptoms like nausea, fatigue, and breast tenderness, and these symptoms suddenly disappear, it could be a sign of miscarriage.

It’s important to remember that experiencing one of these symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean you’re having a miscarriage. Many women experience spotting or cramping during pregnancy without complications. However, if you experience any of these warning signs after a car accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

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Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer at Zanes Law for Free Today

Being in a car accident while pregnant can be a terrifying experience, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and a whirlwind of questions about the health of your baby. The medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering you endure can add significant stress to an already difficult time.

Zanes Law offers free consultations with our experienced car accident lawyers. During this confidential meeting, you can discuss the details of your accident and explore your legal options with absolutely no obligation to move forward. Contact Zanes Law today for a free consultation with a car accident lawyer. Let our legal team advocate for you and your baby during this challenging time.

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