Victims of car accidents often suffer serious head, neck, and spine injuries. Adults are not the only ones that can suffer these types of harm, as children are also at risk of serious injuries, including concussions, traumatic brain injuries, and fractures. Parents can protect their children by driving safely, avoiding distracting behaviors, and following all current car seat regulations. Even with the proper precautions, accidents can still happen. If your children have been injured in a car accident caused by the negligence of another individual, you should speak with a personal injury attorney to determine the steps you can take to pursue compensation for these injuries.
Following Car Seat Safety Regulations
Car seats and booster seats are designed to protect children (especially their heads and necks) in the event of a car accident. Under Wisconsin law, children who are less than one year old and under 20 pounds must be restrained in a rear-facing car seat. Children who are less than four years old and under 40 pounds must be restrained in a forward-facing car seat. Children who are less than eight years old, between 40 and 80 pounds, and less than 57 inches tall must be restrained in a booster seat.
In addition to using the right restraints, adults can further protect children by:
- Installing car seats correctly
- Avoiding the use of thick winter coats when children are in a car seat
- Buckling and tightening straps properly
- Placing children in the back seat of a vehicle
What to Do After an Accident
Even with proper restraint usage, a child may sustain a head or neck injury in a collision. Symptoms of injuries such as whiplash and concussions do not always appear right away, and children may not always know how to express their symptoms. After an accident, adults should check to see if any children need immediate medical attention. Once the police and emergency medical technicians are called to the scene, victims should note any current or delayed symptoms.
Pursue Legal Counsel
When head, neck and spine injuries occur as a result of a car accident, victims may be able to seek compensation from the negligent parties. Proving that the reckless actions of another motorist caused the crash is the first step that must be taken. In addition, any evidence or documentation relating to the accident should be retained to bolster your claim.
Contact an Appleton Car Accident Lawyer
Although Wisconsin’s car seat laws are meant to increase children’s safety, they do not eliminate the risk of serious injuries in a collision. If you or a loved one have been involved in a car accident that resulted in serious trauma, it is important to speak to a knowledgeable attorney at Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. as soon as possible. For a free consultation, contact a Green Bay personal injury attorney today at 920-739-7366.
Sources:
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/safety/education/child-safety/laws.aspx
http://kidshealth.org/en/teens/post-crash.html
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/347/III/48