Maison Law represents those who have been hurt in Long Beach accidents, including children. Children are some of the most vulnerable parties when it comes to accidents and injuries, especially because they are not aware of many possible dangers around them. Children have the same legal rights as adults and we will work to protect them at any cost. Please do not hesitate to contact us today for a completely confidential and free case consultation.
Will You Need the Help of a Lawyer?
No parent ever wants to consider the fact that their child could become injured in a life-altering accident. However, it is a reality that parents have to be aware of, as it can happen in the blink of an eye. One of the only aspects that sets a child injury claim apart from one involving adults is the fact that a parent or guardian has to file a child injury claim on the child’s behalf. In many circumstances, you could benefit from having a lawyer on your side after an accident.
If you decide to move forward with a personal injury claim, a lawyer can help you in many ways. At Maison Law, we will do the following for you:
- Investigate the circumstances of your child’s accident from start to finish
- Collect important evidence like photographs and videos related to the accident
- Speak with witnesses who may have seen the accident
- Hire accident reconstruction experts who can give helpful information to you
- Negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf
We want to help you achieve a fair result when your child has been injured in an accident. You have options and should never have to face this process alone.
Common Causes of Accidents Involving Children in Long Beach
In Long Beach, children can enjoy many activities including playing on the beach, exploring a museum, or going to a fun park for the day. On some occasions, a fun day can turn into a disaster when an accident occurs. There are many types of accidents involving children that occur in Long Beach each year due to the negligence of others. These include the following:
- Vehicle Accidents: Motor vehicle accidents are one of the most common causes of child injuries in Long Beach. Children cannot prevent a car accident or protect themselves in any way, which sometimes leads to devastating results.
- School Bus Accidents: Thousands of children in Long Beach take the bus to school at least five times a week. Though bus companies and drivers owe a duty of care to children to protect them from harm, accidents still occur every year.
- Crosswalk Accidents: Drivers are supposed to yield to children and other pedestrians in crosswalks but this does not always happen. As a child crosses the street, they could be seriously injured by a negligent driver.
- Bicycle Accidents: A child could be injured in a bicycle accident caused by the driver of a vehicle, the employer of a reckless driver, or a government entity.
- Dog Bites: Children love to approach dogs in many places, such as sidewalks or in the park. However, a dog could bite or attack a child within seconds. The owner of the dog could be responsible for the dog attack.
- Drownings: Many children are involved in accidents at waterparks, pools, and beaches every year. Some of the most severe accidents involve drowning.
Steps to Take After a Child-Related Accident in Long Beach
When a child is injured in an accident, you may be feeling scared and confused. There are some things that you can do to protect your child’s health and the future of their claim. These include the following:
- Assess the situation and check to see how badly your child was injured.
- Get your child to a safe area so that they are not injured any further.
- Call emergency services so that your child gets the medical attention they need.
- Make sure to comfort the child and let them know that help is on its way.
- Speak with any witnesses about what they may have seen at the scene of the accident.
- Take photographs and videos of the accident scene and any injuries present.
Taking care of your child’s health and safety is the most important thing to keep in mind. Looking toward the legal process comes next. It is important that you speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident so that you can begin working toward results.
What Damages Are Available After a Child is Injured in a Long Beach Accident?
A child injury claim could result in a wide array of damages. This is due to the fact that children’s injuries tend to be incredibly severe and also follow them through life in the most catastrophic cases. Some of the damages that you may be eligible for include the following:
- Medical bills and expenses that your child may incur in the future
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
- Future expenses related to adaptive equipment and disability benefits for your child
- Loss of earning potential if your child is unable to work in the future
- Wrongful death damages if a child’s life was taken in an accident
In some cases, you may also be eligible for punitive damages. These damages are seen in the most severe cases and are meant to punish a defendant and deter others from the same negligent actions.
Contact a Long Beach Personal Injury Lawyer Today
After your child has been seriously injured in a Long Beach accident, you may be left with many questions that you cannot answer on your own. At Maison Law, we have years of experience handling claims involving children and will provide you with the resources you need to move forward. Your child should be eligible for every benefit that can help them back onto their feet during these difficult times. Please contact us today to find out what we can do for you and a completely confidential case consultation.
