Seek Compensation If You Got in a Rear-End Car Accident While Pregnant

If you were involved in a rear-end car accident while pregnant, your health and your unborn baby’s safety may be at risk, no matter how minor the crash seemed at the time. At our personal injury law firm, we represent pregnant women throughout Chicago who have suffered injuries due to the careless actions of another driver.

What Are Common Injuries Sustained in Rear-End Crashes Involving Pregnant Women?

Rear-end crashes may seem less dangerous than most car crashes, but for a pregnant car accident victim, they present unique medical risks. Even in minor accidents, it’s essential to seek medical care immediately and follow up with all recommended treatment to protect both the mother and baby.

Injuries to Expectant Mothers

The physical changes during pregnancy make a woman’s body more vulnerable to injury during a car accident. Even in a low-impact car accident, injuries can be significant and may not show up right away. Common injuries include:

Soft-Tissue Injuries

The sudden jolt of a rear-end crash can cause the neck to snap forward and back, straining muscles, ligaments, and joints. Whiplash after a rear-end car accident is painful under normal circumstances, but for a pregnant woman, it can make sleeping, driving, and daily activities even more difficult.

Placental Abruption

One of the most serious injuries a pregnant mother can suffer in a car accident. It happens when the placenta pulls away from the uterine wall, reducing or cutting off the oxygen and nutrient supply to the unborn baby. This condition is a medical emergency and can lead to premature birth or fetal death if not treated quickly.

Uterine Trauma

The uterus is highly sensitive to impact. If the steering wheel, lap belt, or any part of the vehicle strikes the abdomen, it can cause bruising, tearing, or internal bleeding. These injuries often require prompt medical attention and may lead to serious complications.

Preterm Labor

The stress and trauma of a car wreck can trigger early contractions or preterm labor, even if no direct injury is present. This is more likely after a serious car accident, but it can happen in minor accidents as well.

Direct Fetal Trauma

While the pregnant mother absorbs much of the impact, the unborn child is still at risk. Direct fetal trauma refers to injuries that affect the baby directly, often from the force of the accident or from complications caused by the mother’s injuries. Some examples include:

Injury From the Seat Belt or Steering Wheel

If a pregnant woman is thrown forward in the crash, the seat belt or steering wheel can press into the abdomen. This pressure can cause direct trauma to the unborn baby or disrupt blood flow.

Disruption of Oxygen and Nutrient Supply

A blow to the abdomen or injury to the placenta can limit the oxygen the baby receives, which may lead to brain injuries or developmental issues.

Fetal Death

Tragically, some motor vehicle crashes result in the loss of the baby. If this occurs due to the negligence of another driver, it may be possible to file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover compensation for emotional loss, medical bills, and other damages.

Shaken Baby Syndrome

While rare, the violent force of a car crash may cause the baby to be shaken inside the uterus. This can lead to neurological damage or internal injury, especially in later stages of pregnancy when the baby is larger.

What Damages Can Be Recovered for Rear-End Auto Accidents Involving Pregnant Women in Illinois?

If you were injured in a rear-end car accident while pregnant in Illinois, you may be able to recover compensation for both financial and emotional losses. This includes medical bills, covering the cost of immediate medical attention and ongoing treatment for any pregnancy-related injuries. Lost wages from time away from work and pain and suffering are also commonly recovered. In cases involving fetal death, a wrongful death claim can provide additional compensation for the emotional distress caused by losing an unborn child. A qualified car accident attorney can help ensure the expectant mother is fully compensated for all injuries sustained in the crash.

How Much Can Pregnant Car Accident Victims Recover After a Rear-End Car Collision in Chicago?

According to Law.com’s VerdictSearch, rear-end collision settlements involving pregnant victims range from $2,000 to over $35 million, with a median of $283,000 and an average award of $5,212,516.

Several factors influence how much pregnant women involved in such car accidents may recover:

• Severity of physical trauma, such as placental abruption, or other possible pregnancy complications
• Evidence of brain injuries or other permanent injuries to the child
• Current and future medical expenses
• Any lost wages or reduced earning ability
• Emotional distress and pain and suffering
• Whether the case is resolved by settlement, verdict, or arbitration
• Outcomes involving fetal death or premature birth

Example Cases Filed in Cook County

$450K Arbitration Award After Rear-End Crash Involving Pregnant Woman

While driving downhill on a mountain road in Tennessee, Kevin and Laura Roberts were rear-ended by a driver whose brakes failed. Laura was two months pregnant with twins. Kevin suffered a lumbar herniation and lost his job due to chronic pain. Laura was later diagnosed with an annular tear and experienced ongoing pain. After the at-fault driver’s insurer paid its limits, the couple pursued underinsured motorist coverage. An arbitration panel awarded $450,000, $250,000 to Kevin, and $200,000 to Laura.

$370K Settlement for Miscarriage and Soft-Tissue Injuries in Rear-End Collision

Elsenor Java, 15 weeks pregnant, was rear-ended while stopped in traffic in Midlothian. She miscarried the next day and suffered neck and back injuries. Her husband and 3-year-old son were also in the car. The family sued the at-fault driver and his employer for negligence. The defense contested liability and wrongful death damages. The parties settled for $370,000, $195,000 for the estate of the unborn child, and $175,000 for other injury-related damages.

Why You Need a Chicago Rear-End Accident Attorney

Hiring a Chicago rear-end collision attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, especially if you were injured while pregnant. Rear-end accidents may seem straightforward, but proving pregnancy-related injuries often requires detailed medical evidence and expert testimony. Insurance companies frequently downplay the impact of “minor” crashes, and they may dispute whether the car accident caused complications like preterm labor or fetal trauma.

Cases involving injuries to a pregnant mother or unborn child demand careful legal strategy. Local courts, such as the Circuit Court of Cook County, require thorough documentation and timely filings, and defendants often challenge claims tied to emotional distress or future medical care. An attorney familiar with Chicago’s legal system and judges is better equipped to build a strong case and handle negotiations or litigation effectively. With the right legal support, you can pursue compensation for the full scope of your losses.

What Laws Govern Rear-End Car Accident Claims in Illinois?

The Illinois Vehicle Code (625 ILCS 5/) outlines the rules of the road in the state, including safe following distances. In most rear-end crashes, the driver who struck the vehicle in front is presumed negligent for failing to reduce speed or maintain control.

If a rear-end crash leads to the loss of an unborn child or the death of the expectant mother, the Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180/) allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Compensation may cover grief, loss of support, and other emotional and financial damages.

The Chicago Municipal Code, Title 9, contains local traffic laws covering speeding, distracted driving, and reckless behavior. Violations of these ordinances can be used as evidence in proving liability.

How Long Do Victims Have to Take Legal Action Following a Rear-End Car Accident While Pregnant?

Under 735 ILCS 5/13-202, victims generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This includes claims involving pregnancy complications or injuries to the unborn baby. Failing to file within this time may permanently bar your right to pursue compensation.

How to Strengthen Your Case If You Got in a Rear-End Car Accident While Pregnant

Taking the proper steps after a rear-end car accident while pregnant not only protects you and your baby’s well-being but also helps strengthen your case if you decide to pursue compensation.

Seek Medical Attention

Seek prompt medical attention, even if there are no apparent injuries. Symptoms like vaginal bleeding or severe headaches may not appear right away but can signal serious complications such as placental abruption, internal bleeding, or fetal trauma. These complications may not be immediately noticeable but can become life-threatening without immediate care.

Follow All Medical Advice

Keep every appointment, follow treatment instructions, and take prescribed medication. Any missed visits or skipped treatments can hurt your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t serious or that your own choices made things worse.

Document Everything

Maintain detailed records of all medical costs, symptoms, and treatments. Photograph injuries, vehicle damage, and anything related to the crash. These records help show how the car accident while pregnant affected your life and support your claim for fair compensation.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone

Insurance companies may pressure you to settle early or say something they can use against you. Always refer them to your car accident attorney, who can protect your interests and handle communication the right way.

Consult a Car Accident Attorney

A skilled attorney can build your case, work with medical experts, and handle negotiations. If the at-fault driver caused serious harm to you or your unborn child, legal representation is key to recovering full compensation for all damages.

How We Can Help You Recover Compensation From Other Drivers

A top-rated Chicago auto accident lawyer can help you build a strong case after a rear-end car accident while pregnant. We understand how to gather critical medical evidence, work with specialists to prove pregnancy complications, and calculate long-term damages like medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Rear-end cases can seem clear-cut, but insurers often dispute the extent of injuries, especially in low-impact car accidents. Our attorneys will push back against these tactics and demand full and fair compensation, not just for your immediate costs, but for the lasting effects of the crash on you and your baby’s future.

Recognized by Super Lawyers and maintaining a perfect 10.0 rating on Avvo for outstanding results in serious injury claims, our legal team brings focused experience to every case we take on.

FAQs

Can a low-impact car accident while pregnant harm the unborn baby?

Yes. Even a low-impact car accident while pregnant can cause serious harm to the unborn child. Sudden jolts or pressure from the seat belt or steering wheel may lead to placental abruption, fetal trauma, or disrupted blood flow. These injuries aren’t always visible right away, which is why it’s critical to seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine after the crash.

Can victims recover long-term medical care expenses after being in a rear-end car accident while pregnant?

Yes. If the car accident results in complications that require extended treatment, victims can pursue compensation for all related medical expenses, both current and future. This may include specialist visits, physical therapy, pain management, or care related to pregnancy complications. A skilled Chicago auto accident lawyer can help document these needs and ensure they’re fully included in your claim.

Book a Free Consultation

If you were involved in a rear-end car accident while pregnant, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our top-rated Chicago motor vehicle accident lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and explore every option for compensation. Whether you’re dealing with pregnancy complications or the tragic loss of an unborn baby, we’re ready to guide you through the legal process with care and experience. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and speak directly with a legal professional who can fight for the support you need.