What to Do When Child Injury Occurs in a Car Accident
When a child is injured in a car accident, the experience can be especially traumatic and overwhelming, not just for the child but for the parents and other family members as well. Knowing the appropriate steps to take immediately after the incident can help ensure the child receives necessary medical attention and compensation that addresses the pain and suffering and the special financial considerations that apply when a youth is injured. Read on for a discussion of some essential steps to follow if your child suffers an injury in a car accident. For personalized assistance after a crash or other injury-causing incident in Indiana, contact Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, for help and support from an experienced and dedicated Indianapolis personal injury lawyer.
Ensure Safety and Assess Injuries
The first priority is to ensure everyone’s safety, and no one is more important to you than your child. If the car accident is relatively minor and there’s no immediate danger, take the time to assess your child for injuries. Look for obvious signs of distress or injury. However, some injuries, like internal injuries or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. It’s crucial to keep the child calm and still until medical help arrives if you suspect any serious injuries.
Call for Emergency Medical Assistance
Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s important to call 911. Children may not always be able to articulate their pain or discomfort, and a professional medical assessment is critical to rule out internal injuries or trauma. Describe the nature of the accident and any symptoms or concerns about the child to the emergency responders.
Document the Accident Scene
If it’s safe and you are able to do so, take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, road conditions, and any relevant street signs or signals. These photographs can be valuable evidence if you need to pursue a legal claim. Additionally, collect contact and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
Gather Witness Information
If there were witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact details. Witness accounts can provide crucial information about the accident’s circumstances, which can be particularly important if there are differing accounts of what happened.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if your child was evaluated by emergency responders at the scene, follow up with a pediatrician or a visit to the emergency room, if called for. Some injuries may not show immediate symptoms, and a thorough medical examination will ensure that any hidden injuries are diagnosed and treated promptly.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be cautious about the details you provide if you haven’t yet consulted with a personal injury attorney, especially when discussing fault or injuries. Stick to basic facts and avoid making statements that could affect your claim.
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney
Consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney is crucial. An attorney can guide you through the complexities of legal claims involving children, including negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, filing a lawsuit to cover medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. At Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, our experienced attorneys understand the sensitive nature of child injury cases and are dedicated to advocating for the rights and well-being of your child.
Monitor Your Child’s Recovery
After an accident, monitor your child’s physical and emotional health. Some symptoms or behavioral changes might appear days or even weeks later. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are important to address any ongoing or emerging issues related to the accident.
Contact Lee Cossell & Feagley for Help After a Car Accident Injury in Indiana
The aftermath of a car accident involving a child can be a challenging time for any family. By taking the right steps, you can manage the situation more effectively and ensure your child’s health and legal rights are protected. At Lee Cossell & Feagley, LLP, in Indianapolis, we are committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to help your family navigate through these difficult times. Call us today at 317-631-5151 for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.