Average Settlement for a Car Accident While Pregnant in California
Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Short answer: Most pregnant people injured in car accidents in California can expect approximately a $15,000 – $100,000 settlement for their injuries. In more severe cases where injuries are permanent, settlements can be over $100,000.
Average Car Accident Settlement While Pregnant in California
| Severity of Injuries | Average Settlement Amount |
| Minor | Approximately: $15,000 – $100,000 |
| Moderate | Approximately: $100,000 – $300,000 |
| Severe | Approximately: $300,000 – $1,000,000+ |
Example Settlements
- UPS must pay family of pregnant woman hit by truck $75M after baby suffered permanent brain damage
- State Police settles PIT maneuver lawsuit which injured pregnant woman
- Suspected drunk driver slams head-on into car, killing woman and unborn child on Highway 395
- Family blames traveling nurse, her employer, for high-speed fiery wreck that killed 5 others, including pregnant woman
Factors That Affect Settlement Amounts in Pregnant Car Accidents
Severity of Injuries
The extent of injuries to both the pregnant driver and the unborn child can significantly impact the settlement. Severe injuries may lead to higher compensation.
Medical Expenses
The total medical costs incurred for the pregnant driver and the unborn child, including prenatal care and any complications arising from the accident, are crucial in determining the settlement amount.
Lost Wages
If the pregnant driver is unable to work due to the injuries sustained in the accident, the lost wages and potential future earnings may be factored into the settlement.
Property Damage
Compensation for damage to the vehicle and any personal property inside may be included in the settlement.
Pain and Suffering
Emotional distress and physical pain experienced by the pregnant driver due to the accident may contribute to the settlement amount.
Liability and Fault
Determining who was at fault in the accident plays a key role. If the other party is clearly liable, it can impact the settlement in favor of the injured pregnant driver.
Insurance Coverage
The insurance policies of both parties involved, including policy limits, will affect the available compensation.
Legal Representation
The quality of legal representation can influence the outcome of the settlement. A skilled attorney may negotiate a higher settlement on behalf of the injured pregnant driver.
It’s important to note that each case is unique, and settlements can vary based on specific details.
Factors That Take the Unborn Child Into Account
Settlements in car accident cases involving a pregnant driver in California may take into account various factors related to the health of both the mother and the unborn child. Some of the factors that may be considered include:
Premature Birth
If the accident leads to a premature birth, the medical costs associated with the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and other necessary treatments may be factored into the settlement.
Congenital Disabilities
If the child is born with congenital disabilities as a result of the accident, the settlement may account for the ongoing medical expenses and care required for the child’s condition.
Internal Injuries to the Child
Any injuries sustained by the unborn child, whether internal or external, may be considered when determining the settlement amount.
Emergency C-Section
If an emergency C-section is required due to the accident, the medical expenses associated with the procedure and recovery may be included in the settlement.
Miscarriage
In tragic cases where a miscarriage occurs as a result of the accident, the emotional distress and medical expenses related to the miscarriage may be taken into consideration.
It’s important to emphasize that settlements are often influenced by the specific details of each case, including the severity of injuries, medical costs, and other relevant factors.
Should You Get a Lawyer for Even a Minor Car Accident While Pregnant?
In a minor car accident while pregnant, eligibility for a settlement depends on factors like sustained injuries, impact on prenatal care, and emotional distress. If the pregnant individual experiences physical harm, complications, or emotional trauma due to the accident, they may be entitled to a settlement.
However, if the incident results in no injuries or significant damages, pursuing a settlement might be challenging. Consulting with a personal injury attorney is advisable to assess the specific circumstances and determine the viability of a claim in order to secure fair compensation in California.
How Can a Lawyer Maximize Your Compensation?
Hiring a lawyer for a car accident case, particularly when pregnant, can maximize your settlement amount. Attorneys bring legal expertise to navigate complex laws, assess damages accurately, and negotiate effectively with insurance companies. They ensure all relevant factors, such as medical costs, emotional distress, and potential harm to the unborn child, are considered.
Lawyers also help gather evidence, handle paperwork, and leverage their negotiation skills to secure a fair settlement. Their experience and advocacy increase the likelihood of obtaining the maximum compensation available, providing essential support during a challenging time for pregnant individuals involved in accidents in California.
Get Connected with a Lawyer
If you’d like to know how much compensation you could receive after a car accident while pregnant, contact LawLinq today. We work with some of the best car accident lawyers in the state and all initial consultations are free.
