Auto accidents can be stressful and dangerous occurrences for anyone. However, pregnant women face a unique set of risks when they are involved in a car accident—no matter how minor the accident may seem. It is vital that all drivers recognize that the actions taken immediately following any collision involving an expectant mother can have an enormous impact on the future of the mother-to-be an her unborn child.
Unique Risks to Pregnant Women
When a pregnant woman is involved in any type of accident, it is extremely important that she undergoes heightened observation by her doctor. Only a trained professional can provide the correct treatment for an expectant mother and her baby. For example, many medications and even physical therapy options are contraindicated in this particular situation.
Serious after effects that may occur after a car accident include pre-term labor, internal bleeding, miscarriage, birth defects, and simply creating a high-risk pregnancy that did not previously exist. High-risk pregnancies can cause complications before, during, and after delivery for both the mother and the child.
Less obvious risks include the affect of stress and emotional duress on both the pregnancy and the mother in particular. She may experience complications with the pregnancy, or in some cases, the loss of her child, which can have long-term effects on her physical and emotional well-being.
Immediately Following an Accident
If you are pregnant, or you are involved in an accident where a pregnant woman is a driver or passenger, first call 911 to ensure help is on the way. Secondly, any of the following signs warrant an immediate visit to the ER:
Vaginal bleeding
Loss of consciousness
Leaking of vaginal fluid
Pelvic or abdominal pain
As an expectant mother, even if everything seems fine, a visit to the doctor is in order after any type of car accident. There is always the possibility of the umbilical cord bulging into the vagina, which is a medical emergency, or other complications you may not be immediately aware of.
Consult with an Experienced Lawyer
Because of the extra risk any pregnant woman is exposed to during an automobile accident, it is a good idea to consult with an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible. Unfortunately, not all injuries are immediately evident, especially when it comes to an unborn child. Days, weeks, or even months after the accident, there is a continuous risk for complications due to the accident, and you want to make sure you understand your rights.
At Shea Law Group, you will be able to speak with a knowledgeable Chicago car accident lawyer who understands what you are going through. We have handled literally thousands of accident cases and we have handled hundreds similar to yours. Reach out to us at (877)-365-0040 and book a free, no-obligation consultation today.
