Getting into a car accident is distressing under any circumstances, but if your child gets hurt in a crash, this can amplify the physical, emotional and financial harm suffered. Knowing exactly what to do in this overwhelming situation can make you more capable of getting your child what he or she needs and seeking justice for a car accident in Texas. A car accident lawyer in San Antonio is here to guide you.
Watch for Injury Symptoms
Check your son or daughter for immediate signs of injury, such as pain, bleeding, swelling, misshapen limbs, loss of consciousness or bruising. In the days after the crash, continue watching for signs of injury. A concussion or traumatic brain injury, for example, could cause trouble sleeping, headaches, dizziness and behavioral changes.
Get Professional Medical Care
Always bring your child to an emergency room or pediatrician immediately after a car accident, even if your child claims to be fine. Many injuries have delayed symptoms. Your child’s adrenaline from being in the crash could also act as a pain reliever. Have your child checked by a physician for invisible injuries and to receive proper medical treatment.
Document Your Child’s Injuries
As a parent, you must be your child’s voice in the civil justice system. If you wish to file a car insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit against the person who caused the crash, you must document your child’s injuries in addition to your own.
Start by contacting your child’s doctor and requesting copies of his or her medical records. Ask your child daily how he or she is feeling, and record the answers in an injury journal. Take pictures of any physical signs of harm as your son or daughter recovers.
Address Mental Health
A scary event such as a car accident can be traumatic for a child. Consider taking your child to speak to a therapist or mental health professional to discuss any feelings he or she may be having after the accident. Your child may show signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), such as a phobia of cars, nightmares, flashbacks or anxiety.
Report the Accident
Reporting a car accident that results in injury to your child begins with calling 911 and notifying the police. This is a legal requirement for all accidents that result in injury, death or more than $1,000 in property damage under Texas Transportation Code § 550.026. Then, report the crash to insurance.
All drivers in Texas are required to carry insurance or another form of proof of financial responsibility. After a crash takes place, you must report it to your car insurance provider as soon as possible. If you believe the other driver is to blame, contact his or her car insurance carrier as well to file a claim.
Take Legal Action
Seek justice for the vehicle collision that hurt your child by scheduling a free legal consultation with a local personal injury attorney in San Antonio. A lawyer can help your family seek maximum financial compensation for all of the losses you endured because of the car accident, including those related to your child’s injuries.
You can trust your attorney to take over negotiations with an insurance company for you or bring your case to court if a settlement isn’t possible. Working with an attorney early on in your case can help you craft the strongest possible injury claim while minimizing the stress and legal burden on your family. Contact us today.