Insurance Inquiry
Last week, I was involved in a serious car accident where I was T-boned at an intersection. The other driver received a citation for running a stop sign, so I am not at fault. Unfortunately, my car was totaled due to the impact on the driver’s side, where my 8-year-old child was seated directly behind me, and the airbags deployed.
My primary concern now is about the bodily injury claims for both myself and my child. While we didn’t suffer any major injuries, I did sustain some swelling in my left arm and experience pain in my neck and lower hip on the same side as the impact. My child also felt the force of the collision, reporting pain in her left arm, hip, and rib.
After the accident, we went to the emergency room about an hour later (I didn’t take an ambulance as I was too shaken). The doctor performed an X-ray on me but chose not to do one on my child, stating that they limit X-rays and MRIs in kids to reduce cancer risk. He confirmed that her bones didn’t appear broken, but she was prescribed painkillers and told to expect significant discomfort for at least two more days.
A week has passed, and her pain persists. She missed school last week, and when we saw her private doctor a couple of days later, they recommended an X-ray if her pain continues. This experience has left her anxious about being in a car; she talks about death often and seems to be psychologically impacted. The doctor has suggested therapy, but I’m hesitant about a child as young as she is seeing a therapist.
I haven’t yet filed a bodily injury claim with the other driver’s insurance because I’m still working on settling the claim for my totaled vehicle. I haven’t retained a lawyer yet either, as I feel it might not be necessary at this point since neither of us required hospitalization or has a permanent disability. I am grateful that it wasn’t worse, and I want to ensure my child receives the best possible care for her pain and any potential complications in the future, although I hope that won’t be the case.
I’ve been focusing on my child’s wellbeing, so I haven’t even addressed my own pain yet.
So, my question is, has anyone else gone through something similar? I would appreciate any advice. Thank you!
I’m really sorry to hear about your accident and the difficulties you and your child are facing. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed, especially with everything that has happened.
Medical Documentation: It’s important that both you and your child receive appropriate medical treatment for your injuries. Keep all medical records, notes from doctors, and any treatment recommendations. This documentation will be crucial for any insurance claims.
Consult a Lawyer: Even though you feel like you might not need one yet, it could be beneficial to consult with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in auto accidents. They can help guide you through the process, especially since you want to ensure that you receive fair compensation for both your injuries and your child’s.
Insurance Claims: When filing a bodily injury claim with the other driver’s insurance, make sure to include all medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any other impacts (like your child’s psychological effects). An attorney can help you evaluate what is fair compensation for these factors.
Child’s Mental Health: It’s completely reasonable to be hesitant about therapy for your child, but considering her psychological responses to the accident is important. A mental health professional can help her process her feelings in a safe environment. You could also look for child psychologists experienced in trauma who might make the process feel more comfortable for both you and her.
Future Care: Tracking the ongoing issues related to the accident will help you advocate for your child’s needs. If her pain persists or worsens, keep pushing for further evaluations, including possibly a second opinion about imaging tests.
Your Own Recovery: Don’t neglect your own health. Continue to pursue treatment for your pain as well, as your wellbeing is crucial to being there for your child.
Settling the Claim: Be cautious with settlement offers. Accepting too soon might mean leaving money on the table for future needs. An attorney can help you navigate this to ensure you aren’t settling for less than what you might truly need.
Lastly, remember that you’re not alone in this situation. Many people have gone through similar experiences, and there are resources and support groups available. Take care of both of you, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it.