Are you or is your partner pregnant? If so, getting into a car crash is especially scary. It is imperative that you take immediate action to protect the health, safety, and legal rights of the expectant mother.
Here, our Warner Robins car accident attorney provides a comprehensive guide for what to do if you are involved in a motor vehicle crash while pregnant in Georgia.
Car Accident While Pregnant? You Face an Increased Safety Risk
A study cited by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that as many as 175,000 pregnant women are involved in motor vehicle collisions in the United States each year. The reality is that pregnancy creates unique vulnerabilities because the body is already under physical strain, and the uterus has limited protection in a crash. Even a collision that seems minor can create internal trauma that does not show symptoms right away. Placental abruption, preterm labor, uterine injury, and fetal distress can occur without obvious external signs. Any forceful impact requires immediate medical attention because the consequences of delayed treatment can be catastrophic.
Steps to Take if Hurt in a Car Crash Pregnant in Georgia
A proactive approach is an absolute must after a motor vehicle collision involving a pregnant woman. Immediate action is required to protect her health, the health of the child, and the ability to bring a legal claim. Here are steps to take if you were hurt in a crash while pregnant in Warner Robins, Georgia:
- Call the Police and Report the Crash: All car accidents in Georgia should be reported to state or local law enforcement. It is best to call the police and have them come to the scene of the crash itself to write an official report.
- Seek Prompt Medical Care: Pregnant women should receive prompt medical evaluation after any crash. Physicians can check for fetal heartbeat changes, uterine trauma, or early signs of complications. Quick treatment stabilizes both mother and child.
- Document the Car Accident: Georgia is a fault-based car accident state. You should document the crash. Take photographs of vehicle damage, the crash location, and any visible injuries. Pregnancy complications may not be visible, so keep a written record of symptoms.
- Follow All Recommended Follow-Up Appointments: Many pregnancy-related injuries develop over time. Follow-up care may include ultrasounds, fetal monitoring, non-stress tests, and ongoing observation. Keep every appointment. Your health matters.
- Speak to a Lawyer Before an Insurance Adjuster: Unfortunately, the big insurance companies are not on your side. Before you provide any statement to an insurance adjuster, you should speak to an experienced Warner Robins auto accident attorney.
What to Know About the Eggshell Plaintiff Doctrine (Pregnant Victims)
Similar to many other jurisdictions, Georgia recognizes the eggshell plaintiff doctrine. It is a long-standing legal principle that protects people who are more vulnerable to harm. Under the rule, a negligent driver is responsible for all injuries caused by the crash, even if the victim had a pre-existing condition or heightened susceptibility to harm. Notably, pregnancy qualifies as a condition that increases the risk of harm in an accident. That means the at-fault driver cannot argue that the injuries were “worse than expected” because the victim was pregnant. They can still be held legally liable for the full extent of the victim’s damages.
For pregnant women, this doctrine is critical. A crash that might have produced minor injuries in a non-pregnant person can lead to major complications during pregnancy. In Georgia, the law allows full compensation for the actual harm, including emotional distress, pregnancy complications, medical monitoring, and future risks. Beyond that, any impact on the unborn child (including premature birth or other developmental concerns) must be addressed in the claims process as well. A top-rated Warner Robins, GA car accident attorney can help.
Recovering the Maximum Compensation for Pregnant Women in Car Accidents
In Georgia, a pregnant woman who was hurt in a motor vehicle crash has the right to seek compensation for the full extent of their damages, including for any non-economic losses. Do not trust any insurance company to look out for the best interests of you and your family after a crash. The right approach is a proactive approach. Our Warner Robins, GA car accident lawyers have the experience that pregnant women can trust. Recoverable damages may include:
- Property loss, including vehicle repairs
- Emergency medical treatment
- Hospital bills and other health care costs
- Any additional costs related to the pregnancy
- Injuries to the fetus
- Loss of wages and diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering and mental anguish
- Disability, disfigurement, or physical impairment
- Wrongful death for the loss of the fetus
- Wrongful death for the loss of the mother
Why Trust Griffin Law Firm for a Car Accident Claim in Warner Robins, Georgia
Car accidents are stressful, confusing, and overwhelming. That is all the more true if you (or your loved one) is pregnant. At Griffin Law Firm, P.C., we have the knowledge, skills, and legal expertise that expecting mothers can trust. With a proven record of client testimonials and case results, victims and families trust our legal team when it matters the most. With a law office that is conveniently located in the 31088 zip code of Warner Robins, we represent pregnant women in car accident claims throughout the entire surrounding region in Georgia.
Contact Our Warner Robins Car Accident Lawyer for Pregnant Women Today
At Griffin Law Firm, P.C., our Warner Robins auto accident attorney has the skills and experience to handle the most serious and complex of accident claims, including those involving expectant mothers. If you are pregnant and you were hurt in a crash, we are here to help. Contact us today for your free, no obligation initial case review. With an office in the 31088 zip code of Warner Robins, we represent pregnant mothers in car accident claims in Houston County, Peach County, and all across the region, including in the 31093, 31095, 31099, and 31098 zip codes.