What to Do If Your Child Is Injured in a Car Accident
As a dad myself, I can tell you this — there’s nothing worse than seeing your child in pain.
When a car accident involves your child, everything feels 10 times more overwhelming. You're not just dealing with the shock of the crash. You're dealing with doctors, insurance companies, school absences, and the fear that your kid won’t bounce back the way they should.
So here’s what I want every parent to know: You’re not alone, and there are steps you can take right now to protect your child — physically and legally.
1. Get Immediate Medical Attention (Even If They Seem “Okay”)
Kids are tough. They might tell you they’re fine, but adrenaline can mask pain and injury — especially with concussions, soft tissue injuries, or even internal issues.
Don’t wait. Take them to a pediatrician, urgent care, or the ER right away. Not only is this critical for their health — it also creates a medical record that links the injury to the accident, which we’ll need later.
2. Follow Up with Specialists If Needed
If your child is still hurting days or weeks later, or if the initial exam didn’t cover everything, don’t hesitate to follow up. That might mean a neurologist, orthopedist, or pediatric chiropractor. We can help you find trusted professionals who understand both medical care and injury claims.
3. Keep a Journal of Symptoms, Doctor Visits, and Missed Activities
Keep track of everything:
Their pain levels
Emotional changes (fear of riding in cars, nightmares, anxiety)
Missed school, sports, or activities
Doctor appointments and diagnoses
This info helps us show the full impact of the accident on your child’s life — not just the physical side, but the emotional and developmental toll too.
4. Don’t Talk to the Insurance Company Without Legal Help
The insurance adjuster might seem friendly — but remember, their job is to pay out as little as possible. They’ll downplay your child’s injuries, question your parenting decisions, or try to rush you into a settlement that doesn’t come close to what your family needs.
You don’t have to deal with that alone. Let me talk to them instead. I’ll make sure your child’s case is taken seriously from the start.
5. You May Be Entitled to More Than You Think
If your child is injured in a car accident due to someone else’s negligence, they may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills (past and future)
Pain and suffering
Emotional distress
Loss of enjoyment of life
Long-term treatment or therapy
And in many cases, parents may also have a claim for medical expenses and other losses tied to their child’s care.
Let’s Make Sure Your Child Gets the Care — and Justice — They Deserve
This is personal for me. When a child is hurt, it’s not just another case. It’s a family that’s been shaken. It’s a parent who needs answers and support.
At Chatenka Injury Law, we take these cases seriously — with compassion, clarity, and a deep commitment to making things right.
If your child’s been injured in a crash, call me. We’ll walk through what happened, make a plan, and do everything we can to protect your family’s future.
— Aaron
