A study estimated that 170,000 car crashes in the United States involve pregnant women each year! Yes, car accidents can be dangerous for everyone involved, but they are particularly so for pregnant women, due to the harm to the unborn babies and themselves.
The physiological changes and added complexity of pregnancy can complicate injury outcomes and medical responses. Knowing the risk of a car accident while pregnant, its impact on pregnancy, and how to mitigate potential harm is crucial for expectant mothers and those around them.
Keep reading for pregnant car crash tips.
1. Understanding the Risks
Pregnancy brings about various changes in a woman’s body, including increased blood volume, altered cardiovascular function, and the displacement of internal organs.
These changes can make pregnant women more susceptible to certain types of injuries and complicate medical assessments after an accident. The risk is high through all the trimesters, but the first trimester is crucial for fetal development.
There isn’t a point during the pregnancy at which a pregnant woman would have less risk if she were in a car crash.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries in car accidents during pregnancy include abdominal trauma. This can affect the uterus and placenta, leading to complications such as placental abruption. A placental abruption occurs when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall.
Other injuries include fractures, head trauma, and internal bleeding. All of these can have serious implications for both mother and baby.
2. Impact on the Unborn Baby
A placental abruption can have an impact on the baby as well. It can disrupt the baby’s oxygen and nutrient supply.
This type of injury will potentially lead to premature birth, low birth weight, or even stillbirth. Immediate medical intervention is often required to manage this condition.
Fetal Trauma
Direct trauma to the abdomen can also cause fetal injuries, ranging from minor bruising to more serious conditions like fetal fractures or brain injuries. The amniotic fluid surrounding the baby provides some protection, but a significant impact can still cause harm.
Preterm Labor
The stress and physical impact of a car accident can induce preterm labor. Babies born prematurely are at a higher risk for health issues such as respiratory distress syndrome, developmental delays, and infections.
3. Preventive Measures
The most important pregnancy safety tactic you can use in a car is to wear your seatbelt, but you should also know how to wear a seatbelt so it protects the baby and yourself properly.
Wear the seatbelt with the lap belt placed under the belly. It should be low and snug on the hip bones. The shoulder belt needs to be between the breasts and off to the side of the belly. This positioning helps to distribute the force of a collision away from the abdomen and towards the pelvis and chest.
Airbag Safety
Airbags are designed to work in conjunction with seatbelts to provide maximum protection. Pregnant women should ensure they are seated at a safe distance from the steering wheel or dashboard (at least 10 inches) to minimize the impact force. Adjusting the seat and steering wheel can help achieve a safer position.
Driving Safety
Maintaining a good driving posture is important. Pregnant women should sit upright, with the seat slightly reclined if necessary. This ensures comfort and safety. Taking frequent breaks during long drives can also help reduce fatigue and discomfort.
4. What to Do After an Accident
Regardless of how minor the accident may seem, pregnant women should seek immediate medical attention following a car accident. A thorough evaluation can help identify any potential pregnancy car accident injuries to both the mother and the baby.
Obstetricians often recommend monitoring the baby’s heart rate and performing an ultrasound to check for any signs of distress or injury.
Monitoring Symptoms
Post-accident, it is crucial for pregnant women to monitor themselves for symptoms. Some symptoms to watch for, are:
- Abdominal pain
- Vaginal bleeding
- Contractions
- Decreased fetal movement
- Fluid leakage
These symptoms can indicate serious complications that require prompt medical intervention.
Follow-Up Care
Continued follow-up care with an obstetrician is essential after a car accident. Regular check-ups can help ensure the ongoing health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Additional ultrasounds or fetal monitoring might be necessary to track the baby’s development and detect any late-onset issues.
5. Legal and Financial Considerations
Pregnant women involved in car accidents may face additional medical expenses and require specialized care. It is important to file an insurance claim to cover these costs. Documenting all medical visits, treatments, and any additional care required for the pregnancy is essential for a comprehensive claim.
Legal Assistance
In cases where the accident was caused by another party’s negligence, seeking legal assistance can help in obtaining compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An attorney experienced in handling car accident cases involving pregnant women can provide valuable support and guidance through the legal process.
6. Emotional Impact and Support
Pregnancy can be a stressful enough time as it is, without the added pressure of a car accident and its effect on the unborn baby.
The stress and trauma of a car accident can have a significant emotional impact on pregnant women. Anxiety about the health of the baby and the potential for complications can be overwhelming. Expectant mothers need to seek emotional support from family, friends, or a professional counselor.
Support Networks
Joining support groups for pregnant women or those who have experienced similar situations can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences and coping strategies can help in managing stress and anxiety.
Car Accident While Pregnant – Follow Pregnancy Safety Advice
You are doing all you can as a mother to take care of your unborn baby. If you have a car accident while pregnant, all hope isn’t lost. There are steps that you can take to protect yourself and your baby.
At RHINO Lawyers, we specialize in auto accidents of all kinds. No matter if rear-ended, t-boned, or injured as a pedestrian, driver, or passenger, we are here to hold the negligent party accountable for their actions. If you sustain pregnancy car accident injuries, contact our team ASAP to get assistance.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
