Being involved in an auto accident while a child is in the vehicle can be especially traumatic for everyone. If the driver, the child or any other passengers sustain injuries from the crash, a lawsuit may need to be filed to cover expenses related to medical bills, rehabilitative care, property damage and the recovery of other losses. Pre-settlement funding can provide money that is needed to cover these expenses while you await compensation payments from your lawsuit or claim against the insurance company. All that is necessary is that you have legal representation by an attorney.
What to Do When Involved in an Auto Accident with a Child
Emergency responders should always be called in the immediate aftermath of an accident if the accident resulted in any bodily injury or harm. Turning on the vehicle’s flashers and setting up any available cones near the vehicle will facilitate the emergency responder’s ability to locate the site of the accident. Attempting to move an injured child before professional assistance arrives could result in further injuries.
Cuts and bruises, along with head injuries, are common among children who are involved in car accidents. A car’s seatbelt can also cause bruising to the ribs, shoulders and stomach. Minor scrapes, lacerations and muscles strains are also common.
Children who are younger may find it difficult to verbally express any pain that they may be feeling. It is important to schedule an appointment with a pediatrician or visit the emergency room to have the child medically evaluated. Not all symptoms of serious bodily injury are noticeable right away, but adults should be on the lookout for potentially alarming symptoms in children, such as:
- Continuous crying
- Changes in sleep habits
- Nausea and vomiting
- Inconsolable outbursts
- Behavior changes
- Lack of interest in playing or eating
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Following the Accident
Even if the car seat that the child was sitting in appears undamaged, a new car seat should be purchased. Car seat damage is not always easily visible and any underlying damage could make the car seat unsafe for a child. Daycare workers and school teachers should be notified that the child was recently involved in a car accident so that they can watch for any symptoms that may indicate a medical problem.
Child Safety Tips
Accidents are not always preventable, but there are some things that drivers can do to keep children safe. Although there have been technological advances to keep drivers and children safe in vehicles, these innovations are not always foolproof. Choosing a car seat that is age-appropriate is one of the best ways to protect a young passenger from bodily harm. The following car seat style and age recommendations are recommended:
- Rear-facing car seat – Birth to 12 months
- Forward-facing car seat – 12 months to 3 years
- Booster seat – 4 to 7 years
- Seat belt back seat – 8 to 12 years
Getting into a car accident can be a traumatic experience for drivers and passengers, including children – learn more about auto accident loans. Legal funding can help provide the necessary advance of money to cover important medical bills or other expenses while awaiting the full lawsuit settlement amount to be awarded.
Call or text (877) 735-0016 or fill out our form to apply today for free.