Unfortunately, thousands of children suffer injuries in car accidents each year, ranging from minor bruises to life-threatening trauma. When a child is hurt in an accident, families face medical decisions, insurance claims, and legal questions while trying to help their child recover. Knowing what steps to take immediately after a crash and what rights children have can help parents protect the health of their child.
What Should I Do Immediately After the Accident?
The first priority is getting medical attention for the child, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries in children, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. Call 911 if the child has any visible injuries, complains of pain, or seems disoriented; police should document the scene, which creates an official record. Parents should also gather information from other drivers, take photos of vehicle damage, and collect witness contact details, as these details become important later when filing claims or pursuing legal action.
How Do Medical Treatments Differ for Injured Children?
Children require specialized medical care after car accidents because their bodies are still developing. These younger patients may need pediatric emergency physicians, orthopedic surgeons, or neurologists who treat children specifically. Treatment plans often differ from adult protocols, as children heal differently and may experience long-term effects that adults would not face. Medical providers will monitor growth patterns and development to identify any lasting impacts from the injuries. Families should keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments, and diagnoses, which become valuable when seeking compensation for the care.
Who Pays for the Medical Bills?
Insurance coverage typically begins with the personal injury protection or medical payments coverage from the vehicle in which the child was riding. If those benefits run out, health insurance may cover additional costs. When another driver caused the accident, the liability insurance of that driver should pay for medical expenses, rehabilitation, and other damages. However, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, especially in cases involving children who may need ongoing care. Parents may need to negotiate with insurers or take legal action to obtain full, fair compensation.
Can Parents File a Lawsuit on Behalf of Their Child?
Yes, parents or legal guardians can file personal injury claims for their children who were hurt in car accidents. Because minors cannot legally file lawsuits themselves, adults must act as representatives in legal proceedings. These claims can seek damages for medical bills, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and future care needs. Children may also have claims for permanent disabilities or scarring that will affect them throughout their lives.
How Long Do Families Have to Take Legal Action in Cherry Hill?
Each state sets time limits, called statutes of limitations, for filing personal injury lawsuits. In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, special rules apply to minors, which may extend this deadline. Pennsylvania follows similar guidelines but with specific provisions for injured children. Families should not delay consulting with an attorney, as waiting too long could prevent them from recovering compensation. We recommend contacting our Cherry Hill car accident lawyers promptly to protect your child’s rights at the outset and for better chances at preserving evidence and meeting legal deadlines.
Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Can Protect the Rights of Your Child
If your child was injured in a motor vehicle collision, reach out to our caring Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York. Our legal team will fight to protect your child’s rights and secure fair compensation. Call us today at 856-843-8990 or fill out the online form for a free consultation. With offices located in Cherry Hill, NJ, and Media, PA, we proudly serve all clients in New Jersey and Pennsylvania.