What Should You Do After a Car Accident If You Are Pregnant?

A car accident during pregnancy can be a terrifying experience. Even in seemingly minor crashes, the force of impact can cause serious complications for both the mother and unborn child. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), car accidents are the leading cause of trauma-related deaths among pregnant women, with approximately 3,000 pregnancies lost annually due to vehicle crashes.

In the aftermath of an accident, knowing what steps to take is essential to protecting both your health and your legal rights. If you are pregnant and have been involved in a car crash, the Illinois car accident attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates are here to provide you with expert guidance and compassionate legal representation.

Medical Risks and Complications for Pregnant Women After a Car Accident

The Hidden Dangers of Trauma During Pregnancy

Car accidents pose a unique set of risks for pregnant women. According to the Mayo Clinic, trauma is a leading cause of non-obstetric maternal death, and even mild impact injuries can lead to placental abruption, uterine rupture, and fetal distress. Studies from Johns Hopkins Medicine indicate that car accidents significantly increase the risk of preterm labor, miscarriage, and stillbirth.

Common Pregnancy-Related Injuries After a Car Accident

Some of the most common injuries suffered by pregnant women in car crashes include:

• Placental abruption – The placenta detaches from the uterus, cutting off oxygen to the baby.
• Uterine rupture – A tear in the uterus, which can be life-threatening for both mother and baby.
• Fetal trauma – Brain injuries, skull fractures, and internal organ damage.
• Amniotic rupture – The premature breaking of water, leading to preterm labor.
• Internal bleeding – May go unnoticed but can cause severe complications.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), even low-speed accidents can result in serious complications. Delayed symptoms, such as decreased fetal movement or abdominal pain, should never be ignored.

What to Do Immediately After a Car Accident While Pregnant

If you are pregnant and involved in a car accident, taking the right steps is critical to ensuring your safety, your baby’s safety, and protecting your potential legal claim:

1. Call 911 and Report the Accident

Make sure a police report is filed, detailing the car accident and your pregnancy status. This report will be essential in case you need to pursue a personal injury claim.

2. Document the Scene

Take photos of the accident, your injuries, and any damage to the vehicle. If possible, get contact information from witnesses.

3. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, always seek medical care after a car accident. Some complications, such as placental abruption or fetal distress, may not present symptoms right away. Harvard Medical School emphasizes that early detection of internal injuries can prevent life-threatening complications.

4. Monitor for Symptoms

Watch for warning signs such as vaginal bleeding, cramping, dizziness, decreased fetal movement, or contractions. If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the emergency room immediately.

5. Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have extensive experience handling injury claims for pregnant women injured in car accidents. Our team will help you recover compensation for medical expenses, emotional distress, and any harm suffered by your unborn child.

Can You File a Legal Claim for Pregnancy-Related Injuries After a Car Accident?

Legal Protections for Expectant Mothers in Illinois

Illinois law allows pregnant women to file a personal injury claim for any medical expenses, emotional distress, and pregnancy complications caused by the car accident. Additionally, if a pregnancy is lost due to a crash, parents may file a wrongful death claim for the unborn child under the Illinois Wrongful Death Act.

Under the Wrongful Death Act:

• Parents can seek compensation regardless of the gestational age of the unborn child.
• Damages may include loss of companionship, medical expenses, and emotional suffering.
• A separate claim can be pursued for injuries sustained by the mother and any future medical care needed for the baby if the pregnancy is affected.

What Damages Can Be Recovered for a Pregnancy Loss After a Car Accident?

When a pregnancy is lost due to a car accident, families may seek the following damages:

• Loss of Society and Companionship – Compensation for the emotional loss of the unborn child.
• Emotional Distress – Mental anguish suffered by the parents.
• Medical Costs – Hospital bills and specialized maternal-fetal care.
• Funeral and Burial Expenses – Costs associated with the loss.

If the pregnancy is not lost but complications arise, the mother may seek damages for:

• Ongoing medical monitoring to ensure the baby’s health.
• Neonatal care expenses if the baby is born prematurely.
• Future medical costs for developmental or birth-related injuries.

Why Choose John J. Malm & Associates for Your Pregnancy-Related Car Accident Case?

“Car accidents during pregnancy can be devastating. Our team is dedicated to helping families recover the compensation they deserve while ensuring their rights are protected. Whether you have suffered injuries or the unimaginable loss of a pregnancy, we are here to advocate for you.” — John J. Malm, Naperville car accident lawyer

At John J. Malm & Associates, we have over 90 years of combined experience representing accident victims in Illinois. Our top-rated Illinois personal injury firm has successfully recovered millions for injured victims and their families. We are dedicated to helping expectant mothers recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses related to maternal-fetal injuries
• Emotional distress caused by the trauma of an accident
• Loss of an unborn child due to a driver’s negligence
• Long-term care and medical costs for premature birth injuries

With offices in Naperville and St. Charles, our team is prepared to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact John J. Malm & Associates for a Free Consultation

If you were involved in a car accident while pregnant, don’t wait to seek legal help. The Illinois car accident attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates are ready to help you navigate your legal options and fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Let us protect your rights and help you through this difficult time.