Car Accidents While Pregnant: FAQs & Important Safety Information for NJ Women

Understanding the Risks: Car Accidents and Pregnancy in New Jersey

Car accidents are traumatic experiences for anyone, but for pregnant women, the risks are even greater. The sudden force of impact can cause complications ranging from minor injuries to life-threatening conditions for both the mother and the unborn child. If you are pregnant and have been involved in a car accident in New Jersey, knowing your legal rights and medical precautions can make all the difference.

This guide addresses frequently asked questions about car accidents during pregnancy, the potential medical concerns, and how New Jersey laws protect expecting mothers.

Common Risks for Pregnant Women in Car Accidents

A pregnant woman’s body undergoes significant changes to accommodate the growing baby. This makes them more vulnerable to injuries even in seemingly minor collisions. Some common pregnancy-related injuries from car accidents include:

• Placental Abruption: The placenta may detach from the uterine wall due to sudden impact, leading to serious complications.
• Uterine Rupture: A rare but severe condition where the uterus tears, posing a life-threatening risk to both mother and baby.
• Preterm Labor: The trauma from a crash may trigger early contractions.
• Maternal Shock: If the mother’s body diverts blood away from the baby to protect vital organs, it can lead to fetal distress.
• Fetal Trauma: Direct impact injuries to the baby may result from severe crashes, leading to developmental issues after birth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Symptoms Should I Watch For After a Car Accident?

If you are pregnant and involved in a car accident, watch for the following symptoms, which may indicate a serious issue:

• Vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Decreased fetal movement
• Dizziness or fainting
• Severe headaches
• Swelling in the face or hands
• Fluid leakage from the vagina

Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some complications may not appear until later. Always seek medical attention as a precaution.

Can a Car Accident Cause a Miscarriage?

Yes, a car accident can lead to pregnancy loss, especially if the trauma is severe. Placental abruption and uterine rupture are two conditions that significantly increase the risk of miscarriage. Studies suggest that car accidents account for 1,500 to 5,000 pregnancy losses each year in the U.S.

New Jersey law recognizes the loss of a fetus as a serious injury. Under NJSA 39:6A-8, a pregnant woman who suffers a miscarriage due to an accident is exempt from the Verbal Threshold (also known as Limited Tort), allowing her to file a personal injury lawsuit for damages.

Should I Contact My OB-GYN After the Accident?

Absolutely. Even if the accident was minor, it is crucial to consult your obstetrician. Your doctor may perform tests such as an ultrasound, fetal monitoring, or additional screenings to ensure the baby is safe.

New Jersey’s No-Fault Insurance Laws (NJSA 39:6A-4) allow you to receive medical care under your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, regardless of who was at fault for the accident.

Can a Car Accident While Pregnant Cause Brain Damage to a Fetus?

Yes, certain injuries from a car accident can result in fetal brain damage. Placental abruption and maternal shock can reduce oxygen supply to the baby, increasing the risk of hypoxia (oxygen deprivation). Fetal head trauma from direct impact may also cause developmental delays or disabilities.

Suppose your baby experiences medical complications due to an accident. In that case, New Jersey law allows you to file for compensation to cover future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and long-term care.

Can a Seat Belt Injure a Fetus After a Crash?

While seat belts can sometimes cause minor injuries, not wearing them is far more dangerous. The proper way to wear a seat belt during pregnancy is:

• Position the lap belt below your belly, snugly across your pelvic bone and hips.
• Adjust the shoulder belt so it rests between your breasts and over your shoulder.
• Never place the belt across your stomach.

New Jersey law (NJSA 39:3-76.2f) requires all drivers and passengers, including pregnant women, to wear seat belts.

Are Airbags Dangerous During Pregnancy?

Airbags are designed to protect you in a crash, and when used with a seat belt, they significantly reduce injury risks. However, if you are pregnant:

• Keep at least 10 inches of space between your belly and the steering wheel.
• If possible, tilt the steering wheel away from your abdomen and toward your chest.
• If you are a passenger, sit as far back from the dashboard as possible.

Safety Tips for Pregnant Women Driving in NJ

To minimize risks while driving during pregnancy:

• Avoid driving if you are feeling dizzy, fatigued, or unwell.
• Always wear your seat belt properly.
• Adjust your seat to maintain a safe distance from the airbag.
• Take frequent breaks on long trips to improve circulation.
• Drive with caution, especially in bad weather or high-traffic areas.

Should You Hire a Lawyer If You Were in a Car Accident While Pregnant?

Yes. Pregnancy-related car accident claims are complex. You may face medical bills for both yourself and your baby, potential future complications, and emotional distress. An experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• Lost wages if your injuries prevent you from working
• Long-term care for any fetal injuries

Under New Jersey’s statute of limitations (NJSA 2A:14-2), you have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, claims involving injuries to a child may have an extended timeframe.

Contact Rosengard Law Group for Legal Assistance

If you were involved in a car accident while pregnant in New Jersey, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our expert car injury lawyers have extensive experience handling personal injury cases and securing justice for mothers and their children.

See More: You can also hire an expert auto accident lawyer in Newark.

Call us today at (856) 284-6446 for a free consultation, or visit our website at rosengardlawgroup.com to learn more about how we can help you.