Maison Law represents victims of serious accidents throughout Salinas, including children. Children are more susceptible to injuries and more likely to become involved in accidents due to the fact that they are not always aware of the dangers around them. Our attorneys are well-versed in accident laws and how a claim involving a child works for a family. Please contact us today for a free and confidential case review.
Do You Need a Lawyer After an Accident?
No parent ever wants to consider that their child could become injured in an accident. However, this is the reality that many families face every year due to the negligence of other parties. In cases where a child walks away from an injury with minor bumps and bruises, help from an attorney may not be necessary. However, some accidents are more severe than others.
If your child has sustained catastrophic injuries or their life will be impacted by the injuries that they have suffered in some way, you could benefit from speaking with an attorney. An attorney will be able to protect your child’s interests from big-name insurance companies and answer any questions that you have regarding your claim. At Maison Law, we are here for your family after your child has been hurt in an unexpected accident.
Where Do Accidents Involving Children Commonly Occur in Salinas?
An accident involving a child can happen virtually anywhere that any typical accident can occur. However, there are some places where accidents involving children are more prevalent due to the volume of children located in these areas. These places include the following:
- Schools: Schools are one of the most common places for accidents involving children due to the fact that children spend a long period of time at school. Accidents at schools occur in the actual school, on playgrounds, on buses, and in crosswalks outside of schools.
- Daycares: There are many types of serious accidents involving children that occur at daycares, from choking to mishaps during playtime. Many of these accidents result from lack of supervision.
- Travel: Accidents involving pedestrians, bicycles, and school buses are prevalent on our roads – some of which involve and injure children.
- Parks: Because children tend to be found in parks, playground injuries and trip-and-falls are common.
- Pools: Drownings and other serious pool injuries can occur in the blink of an eye. When children are involved, the results can be devastating.
- Around Dogs: Children are often injured in dog bite attacks. Due to California’s strict liability laws, an owner could be held responsible for the injuries that result.
What You Should Do After Your Child is Hurt in an Accident
Any time a child is hurt in an accident, a parent or guardian may be feeling helpless and alone. You may be feeling as if you have lost all control when your child has been hurt and you can’t change that. However, there are some steps that you can take to protect the well-being of your child following an accident. These include the following:
- Assess the situation to find out who was injured in the accident and needs immediate assistance.
- Move the child to a safer area so that they are not in danger for another accident.
- Call emergency services so that they can get medical treatment for your child.
- Take photographs and videos of the accident scene and any injuries that your child suffered so that it can be documented.
- Speak with witnesses who may have seen the accident occur.
Claims Process Following a Salinas Accident Involving a Child
In California, a child under the age of 18 is unable to file a personal injury claim on their own. You, as the parent or guardian of a child, must file a claim on their behalf to gain the damages that are owed to them and to their family for certain aspects. Some of the damages that your child may be eligible for include the following:
- Medical expenses that your child has incurred or will experience in the future
- Future anticipated expenses for adaptive equipment or inability to work in the years to come
- Loss of companionship between your child and others around them
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life due to a child not being able to enjoy their favorite activities
Even though there is some time for a family to file a claim, evidence can sometimes disappear. While the evidence is fresh, it is crucial that you speak with an attorney about your options.
Contact a Salinas Personal Injury Lawyer Today
It can be scary and confusing to deal with the aftermath of a Salinas accident that causes injuries to your child. At Maison Law, we understand that the turmoil of an accident can be magnified when it is your child who is hurt. During these tough times, we are here to help you work toward the damages that your child needs to get back on their feet. Contact a Salinas personal injury lawyer as soon as possible for a no-obligation case consultation.
