Trauma Cash

What to Do if My Auto Accident Involves a Child

What to Do if My Auto Accident Involves a Child

by Toni Hipolito

Being involved in a car accident when a child is in the vehicle is especially distressing for everyone involved. Whether the child, the driver, or other passengers are injured, the aftermath of such an accident can be complicated. You may need to file a lawsuit to cover expenses like medical bills, rehabilitation, property damage, and other losses. During this time, while you await the compensation from your lawsuit or insurance claim, pre-settlement funding can help bridge the financial gap, providing the immediate support you need. All that’s required is that you have legal representation from an attorney.

Immediate Steps to Take After an Auto Accident Involving a Child

If you’re involved in an auto accident with a child in the car, the first priority should always be safety. Emergency responders should be called immediately if there are any injuries. Activate your vehicle’s hazard lights and set up any available cones or warning signals to make it easier for first responders to locate the accident site. It’s important not to move an injured child until professional medical help arrives, as this could cause further injury.

In children, common injuries after a car accident include cuts, bruises, and head injuries. A seatbelt can also cause bruising to the ribs, shoulders, and stomach. It’s also not uncommon for children to suffer from minor scrapes, lacerations, and muscle strains.

Younger children, in particular, might find it hard to communicate any pain they’re feeling. Even if the injuries seem minor at first, it’s crucial to have a pediatrician or visit the emergency room to have the child evaluated. Some serious injuries might not show symptoms immediately. Keep an eye out for warning signs that could indicate a deeper problem, including:

After the Accident: What Comes Next?

Even if the car seat appears undamaged after the accident, it’s recommended to replace it. Car seat damage isn’t always visible to the naked eye, and any unseen damage could make the seat unsafe for future use. You should also notify daycare providers, teachers, or other caregivers that the child was involved in a car accident. They can help monitor the child for any signs or symptoms that might appear after the accident.

Keeping Children Safe: Car Safety Tips

While accidents can happen unexpectedly, there are steps drivers can take to minimize the risks and protect young passengers. Modern cars come with numerous safety features, but these innovations aren’t always foolproof. One of the best ways to protect children from harm in the event of an accident is to ensure they’re using an age-appropriate car seat. Below are the general guidelines for selecting the right car seat based on the child’s age:

How Legal Funding Can Help You Recover Financially

Getting into an auto accident can be a traumatic experience, not just physically and emotionally but financially as well. Medical expenses, car repairs, and other costs can quickly add up. During the time it takes for your lawsuit or insurance claim to settle, you might find yourself struggling to pay bills or cover necessary expenses.

This is where legal funding can help. Pre-settlement funding is a type of financial support that provides an advance on your lawsuit settlement, giving you the immediate cash you need for things like medical bills, rehabilitation costs, or daily living expenses while you await the full compensation from your case. With legal funding, you don’t have to wait for the settlement to come through before getting the help you need.

At Trauma Cash, we understand the financial burden that can come with a serious accident. Pre-settlement funding can give you the financial breathing room you need while your case is being resolved, helping you stay on top of important expenses during a challenging time. This funding isn’t a loan, so you don’t have to worry about repayment unless you win your case.

If you’ve been involved in an accident with a child in the car, don’t wait for compensation to arrive before taking action. Legal funding from Trauma Cash can help you get the support you need today.