As a parent, your priority is always protecting your children. Understanding the common injuries children and infants may sustain when involved in a car accident is essential. Serious and fatal injuries can occur even in approved car seats and seat belts.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, our injury lawyers are committed to helping you safeguard your little ones while traveling on Minnesota roads. If you are involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, we can help. We can file a claim against the at-fault party to help you recover compensation.
Learn more about the injuries that may occur to your little one in a car accident here.
Understanding the Risks In Car Accident
Due to their developing bodies, children are susceptible to injuries in a car crash. Some of the most common injuries that can occur include the following:
Head and Neck Injuries
Due to their larger head-to-body ratio, children are more prone to head and neck injuries. This can include concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or whiplash. Proper head supports must be adjusted properly to minimize the risk of such injuries.
Internal Injuries
Children and infants might suffer from internal injuries, including organ damage and internal bleeding. These injuries can sometimes be non-apparent immediately after the accident. It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to address potential internal damages.
Spinal Injuries
Spinal injuries are another concern, which can have serious long-term consequences, potentially resulting in paralysis. Ensuring the child is properly strapped into an appropriate car seat can mitigate the risk of spinal injuries.
Ensuring your children’s and infants’ safety while on the road involves knowledge of the possible risks they face. Abiding by Minnesota’s safety regulations and being aware of common injuries can be vital in safeguarding them during car travels. Always consult with a professional during an accident to take the necessary steps towards safety and justice.
Minnesota’s Child Seat Safety Laws
To minimize the risk of injuries, Minnesota has enacted specific laws concerning child seat safety which parents should abide by:
- Children Under Age 8: Must ride in a federally approved car or booster seat unless the child is 4 feet 9 inches or taller.
- Seat Position: The recommended position is the back seat until the child is 13.
Steps to Ensure Safety
Adhering to the state’s laws is essential, but taking additional steps can further ensure your child’s safety:
- Properly Installed Car Seats: Ensure the car seat is installed correctly, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
- Use of Appropriate Car Seats: Choose a car seat based on your child’s age, weight, and height.
- Secure Loose Objects: Secure all loose items in the car to prevent projectiles during an accident.
Medical Attention is Crucial
Being involved in a car accident can be traumatic, especially for young ones. It is critical to prioritize their health by understanding the necessary steps following an accident.
Immediate Check-Up
After an accident, get a medical check-up for your infant or child, even if they appear fine. Children might be unable to accurately communicate their pain or discomfort, and some injuries take time to show up.
Monitoring for Symptoms
Keep a close watch for any delayed symptoms that may appear after the accident. Sometimes, signs of severe injuries, such as internal bleeding, may become evident after the crash. Stay vigilant and note any changes in behavior or physical discomfort.
In a car accident, prioritizing medical attention can be a lifesaving decision. Remember to always consult with healthcare professionals to safeguard the well-being of your young ones.
Legal Recourse in Minnesota
If your child has been injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, your child may have multiple potential claims. First, your child will be able to pursue no-fault benefits through your own insurance company to cover up to $20,000 in medical expenses.
Second, Minnesota law allows you to pursue a claim against the at fault driver and their insurance company in certain situations. If your child has met one of the so called “no-fault thresholds,” such as if your child has sustained a permanent injury, if they have a scar, if they have 60 days disability, or if they have over $4,000 in medical expenses, your child can pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. Through this claim, they can recover compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, pain, and suffering, and emotional distress.
Finally, if the at fault driver does not have enough insurance coverage to compensate your child for their injuries, your child may also be able to pursue an underinsured motorist claim against your own insurance company.
It is advised to consult with an experienced Minnesota personal injury attorney to understand your rights and the necessary steps to undertake.
Contact Nelson Personal Injury, LLC for More Information About Your Rights to Compensation
It can be scary if you are involved in an accident and your child sustains an injury. The first step is to seek medical treatment for your child to ensure any injuries are found and treated.
At Nelson Personal Injury, LLC, we specialize in helping families get the justice they deserve. Contact us for a consultation if your child has been a Minnesota car accident victim. We understand the uncertainty in these situations and are ready to provide the legal support you need.
