Insurance Inquiry
I was involved in a T-bone accident last week at an intersection, completely not my fault. The other driver received a citation for running a stop sign, while my direction didn’t have any. Sadly, my car was totaled, with the impact hitting my driver’s side door directly. My 8-year-old child was seated directly behind me, and the airbags were deployed.
My primary concern is the bodily injury claims for both myself and my child. Fortunately, there are no major physical injuries, but I did suffer from swelling in my left arm, as well as neck and lower hip pain on the left side where the impact occurred. My child also felt the effects of the accident, experiencing pain in her left arm, hip, and ribs.
I took us to the ER about an hour after the accident (I wasn’t in an ambulance because I was too shaken and confused). The doctor performed an X-ray on me but opted not to do one on my child, citing concerns over limiting radiation exposure in kids. He said her bones looked fine but recommended pain relief for her and mentioned that she might experience severe discomfort for at least two more days.
Unfortunately, the pain has persisted for over a week. She missed school last week and saw her private doctor two days later, who suggested an X-ray if her pain continued. Additionally, she seems to be struggling emotionally; she’s now fearful of riding in the car with me and often discusses death, which indicates she may be psychologically affected by the incident. The doctor also suggested consulting a mental therapist, though I’m hesitant to put my young child through that.
I haven’t yet filed a bodily injury claim with the other driver’s insurance, as I’m still working on settling my totaled car claim. I haven’t consulted a lawyer either; I feel that might not be necessary since neither of us required hospitalization or face permanent disabilities. I’m just grateful we’re both alive, as things could have turned out much worse.
However, I’m apprehensive about settling for an amount that might not cover future complications for my child, especially given her young age. I want to ensure she receives all the necessary treatments for her pain and suffering, as well as any future medical issues that might arise due to this accident.
I haven’t even begun to address my own pain, as my child’s well-being is my priority.
So, I’m looking for advice—has anyone else experienced a situation like this? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your experience; that sounds incredibly traumatic for both you and your child. It’s understandable to have concerns about navigating this situation, especially when it comes to insurance claims, health assessments, and your child’s emotional well-being. Here are some thoughts that might help you:
Consult with a Personal Injury Attorney: Even if you feel that a lawyer may not be necessary right now, it can be beneficial to consult with one who specializes in personal injury cases. They can provide you with guidance on how to manage the insurance claim process and ensure that you secure appropriate compensation, especially for your child’s potential future needs.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical visits, diagnoses, treatments, and any conversations you have with healthcare professionals. This documentation can be critical if you decide to pursue further compensation down the line.
Consider Medical Follow-ups: Since your child is still experiencing pain and has shown signs of potential psychological trauma, it’s essential to seek ongoing medical evaluations and therapies. If a doctor has recommended a follow-up X-ray or therapy, it’s worth considering to rule out any underlying issues and to address her emotional health.
Therapy for Your Child: While it’s natural to feel hesitant about your child seeing a therapist, it’s important to remember that many therapists specialize in working with children and can help them process their feelings in a constructive way. This could provide her with coping strategies and reassurance.
Insurance Claims: When you file your bodily injury claim, be sure to mention all of the physical and psychological effects the accident has had on both you and your child. This includes any missed school, the emotional impact, and ongoing pain. Be cautious when settling; make sure that any settlement amount takes into account the full scope of potential future medical needs.
Immediate Settlement: Try to avoid settling the claim too quickly. You’re right to consider the long-term implications, especially for your child. Allow yourself the time to fully assess all medical needs and consult with professionals.
Lastly, it’s good to see you’re focusing on the well-being of both you and your child amidst this difficult time. Prioritize your health and seek the support you both need as you navigate this process. You’re not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you and your daughter heal, both physically and emotionally.