Mitchell | June 9, 2020 | Car Accidents

Car accidents send more than 2.3 million people to hospital emergency rooms across the country every year, and traffic crashes continue to rank among the leading causes of death for young Americans.

Driven by their parents, grandparents, friends, and neighbors, children are too often the victims in dangerous crashes and are made to suffer the painful consequences of a driver’s negligence.

Common Injuries Sustained by Children in Car Accidents

Being involved in a car crash can be a traumatic experience for a person of any age, but it’s especially true for a young child. The emotional and physical consequences of the crash can be devastating. Children may need ongoing care for a variety of injuries, including:

  • Brain injury
  • Lung injury
  • Broken bones
  • Lacerations
  • Burns
  • Emotional distress

What to Do for Your Child After a Car Crash

If your child has been involved in a car accident, it’s important to take action quickly. First, seek medical care as soon as possible after the crash. Even if the child appears fine, have her checked out by a doctor. In some cases, injuries are not readily apparent, and only a qualified professional can assess your child’s medical state. Second, keep a close eye on the child.

Note any changes in physical or emotional behavior, and let other caregivers in your child’s life know about the accident, so they can also help monitor the situation. Also, it might be appropriate to file a personal injury claim against the driver responsible for your child’s injuries. Talk to an experienced car accident attorney who can help you understand your child’s rights more fully.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim on Behalf of a Child

The state of Alabama recognizes that children have rights when another person causes their injuries in a car crash. It is possible to file a personal injury claim on behalf of a child, just as an adult could do for himself in a similar situation.

In Alabama, parents of the injured child may be eligible to file a claim. Married parents would file the claim together, while the custodial parent would have the right in cases of divorce or never-married parents. A personal injury claim can provide compensation for:

  • Medical bills
  • Future medical bills
  • Home and vehicle modification
  • Assistive devices
  • Therapy
  • Pain and suffering

As a parent, you want to protect your children and ensure they have the best possible start in life. When another negligent driver causes your child to suffer serious injuries, it is possible to stand up for your child and hold that person accountable.

At Lattof & Lattof, PC, our experienced personal injury attorneys has been helping accident victims in Alabama for over 60 years. We can help you understand your child’s rights and take the action necessary to protect her future. Call our Mobile office today, or take a moment to fill out the contact form on this page to learn more about who we are and how what we do. Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.