Pregnant Car Accident Victims Might Pay a High Price

 Posted on November 03, 2013 in Personal Injury

Being in a car accident is a terrifying enough scenario for most individuals, but pregnant women have additional concerns about the injuries sustained from an accident. Becoming a victim of a violent car crash can have negative impacts for mother and child, and a new study finds that pregnant women faced increased risks when they skip wearing a seat belt. Those who have been hurt in a car accident and suspect injuries should seek medical attention and then consult a personal injury attorney about the possibility of a lawsuit.

Although there are many published studies and guidelines about steps women can take to promote safety while pregnant, there are few campaigns about the importance of wearing a seat belt. Researchers believe that 1 in 7 adults skip wearing a seat belt on every car trip, even though the Centers for Disease Control notes that serious injury and the chance of death are reduced by 50% just by wearing a seat belt.

A new study, from the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, reviewed data from 878,546 pregnant women between the ages of 16 and 46 in North Carolina. The study, which included births between 2001 and 2008, found that pregnant drivers who were involved in car accidents had increased rates of placental abruption, premature rupture of the membranes, and preterm birth when compared with women who were not involved in car accidents. Furthermore, the study determined that pregnant women who skip wearing a seat belt face three times the risk when it comes to stillbirth.

Car accidents that involve a collision from any direction are dangerous for pregnant women. They can suffer internal injuries that can harm the baby or lead to early birth. Injuries sustained by pregnant women can also affect the development of the child, making car accidents extremely risky for pregnant women. If you have been injured as a pregnant driver or passenger, consult directly with an Illinois personal injury attorney.