There is no feeling like it. The slow-motion sequence of a car coming at you too fast, followed by a heavy push, tires screeching, glass shattering, and silence. The shock of being in a crash is quickly overtaken by a survival instinct, especially if your child is in the car with you.
What If My Child Is Injured in a Car Accident?
Unfortunately, child injuries from accidents happen all too often on Arizona roads. In 2020, 41 children aged 14 and younger were killed and 2,104 were injured in motor vehicle crashes, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation.
Your child’s health and well-being are top priorities in life, so when you are involved in a traffic accident and your child is injured, the sooner you find representation, the better.
The attorneys at Thompson Law Firm have years of experience helping clients with children’s injuries after a car accident. We have offices in Chandler, Peoria, and North Phoenix, and we can meet in-person or over the phone or video call. A consultation is always free.
Child car seats and safety laws have come a long way in just a few generations. Countless times, seat belts save young lives and prevent major injuries. Safety restraints may keep your child alive but a sudden stop and slamming of brakes can hurt little bodies more seriously than adults.
Types of Injuries Children Can Incur in Accidents
–Head injuries, including traumatic brain injury
–Thoracic, or chest, and back injuries
–Whiplash
–Broken bones
-Burns
-Permanent Disability
Even if your child was not physically injured in a crash, the event can take an emotional toll. Children who survive catastrophic motor vehicle accidents are often haunted by fear, a feeling of loss of control, and guilt. The psychological damage these events cause to children should never be overlooked because it can interfere with healthy development. Younger children can be plagued with nightmares or night terrors, and teens may develop a fear of driving or riding in a car.
Are The Next Steps, Legally and Medically?
Immediately following the crash, an investigation will begin by both the police and each driver’s insurance company. Your child should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible to determine the extent of his or her injuries, both seen and unseen. If the other driver stopped, determine if he or she has insurance coverage. Even if you have a collision with a hit-and-run driver or an uninsured motorist, you have legal options. An experienced attorney can aid the investigation on your behalf to ensure you are treated fairly and your family receives the care you deserve.
What If The Other Driver Can’t Pay All The Medical Bills?
Problems arise when the responsible driver has only the minimum amount of insurance coverage to pay for damages and injuries. Serious injuries and damage can cost much more than $25,000 per person for bodily injury and $15,000 for property damage required in Arizona. Legally, you can get what you are entitled to by taking action against the other driver’s insurance company.
An attorney can focus on dealing with legal filings, police, rental car agencies and other entities so you can rest, heal and take care of your child.
How Does A Settlement Work?
Rather than launch a long and expensive court trial, many times both parties choose to settle legal action by agreeing on a dollar amount. This settlement money will go toward any unpaid medical bills, car repairs or replacement, legal fees and other costs of the wreck. Often you can be awarded lost wages and compensation for pain and suffering.
In the aftermath of an auto accident, your emotions will be running high. Often the best decision is to remove yourself from the legal side and bring in experienced attorneys who know the process and have guided others through. Working with a top-rated attorney can ensure your case has a positive outcome and your family is treated fairly. A good attorney’s job doesn’t begin and end with you getting a settlement – the quality of the attorney doesn’t matter if your quality of life suffers while justice is on the way.
At Thompson Law Firm, we can become your short-term go-to people. Yes, we will help you get a fair settlement, but we can also recommend doctors and specialists if needed, getting a rental car big enough for the whole family, and anything else you may need to help you get back your peace of mind.
