Hundreds of children are injured in car accidents every year in Nevada. It’s difficult for parents to consider the fact that their child may be injured due to the reckless or careless actions of another person. Our attorneys have represented many families throughout Nevada during some of their most difficult times. We understand that there are never too many things that you can do to keep your kids safe. Do not hesitate to contact a skilled personal injury lawyer if your child is hurt in an accident. Your case can be complex, but you may be able to secure damages for your child. There are numerous things you can do to protect your child before, during, and after an accident.
Contact Oronoz & Ericsson, LLC to speak with one of our knowledgeable personal injury lawyers. Our office has represented many car accident victims throughout the Las Vegas area. Call us today at (702) 878-2889.
Make Sure Your Child Is Safely Seated In Your Car
State law NRS 484B.157 requires all children in Nevada to be in a car seat so long as they are less than 60 lbs. This means that your child should be in a rear-facing seat until they reach the weight limit designated by the seat manufacturer. Furthermore, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggests that all children under six years of age sit in a forward-facing seat once they outgrow their rear-facing seat.
It’s recommended that children sit in booster seats after outgrowing their more restrictive child seats. Generally this is recommended until the child is about four feet and nine inches tall. However, this varies since every child is different, and the main objective is to keep them safe in a wreck. Keep your child in a booster seat until each of the following statements applies to them:
- Their knees are able to comfortably bend down while their back is up against the seat
- They can sit with their seatbelt without slouching over forward
- The shoulder belt (upper belt) stays between their chest and neck
- The lap belt stays snug on their hip bones
Call For Emergency Help Without Delay
Many auto accidents result in catastrophic harm to those involved. However, some wrecks may at first appear to be less serious than they actually are. It’s important to know that it might not immediately be obvious that your child is injured. As with adults, children may be stunned and in shock due to a sudden collision. This sometimes results in injuries not being noticed even by the injured person. Be sure to get yourself and your child to safety after an accident. The accident scene can be littered with dangerous debris and passing traffic. Once you and your child are in a safe place, do the following:
- Call 911 – Even minor injuries can get much worse over a few hours if not properly treated. Do not delay at all in getting medical attention.
- Speak with your lawyer – An experienced attorney will understand what steps need to be taken to make sure that you protect your rights going forward.
- Save evidence – Saving documents, photographs, and other information about your accident can be very helpful. Your lawyer can help you understand what needs to be saved.
- Follow your doctor’s advice – Do not fail to follow up with your doctor. Your child’s medical needs will be unique, and must be taken seriously.
A Lawyer Can Make Sure That Your Families Receives Compensation
Many accident victims expect the insurance companies to pay the necessary compensation after an accident. However, these are for profit businesses, and they’re seeking to pay out as little as possible. You and your child have the right to pursue damages for all of the harm that you have sustained due to someone else’s negligence. Contacting a lawyer as soon as possible will give you the best likelihood of recovering the help you need. Your lawyer must be experienced in investigating car accidents, and must know how to win in court. Our firm has years of successful practice representing injured Nevadans after an accident. We know how to negotiate for an acceptable financial settlement. Furthermore, our years of trial experience can help your family if it’s necessary to take your case to court. Damages that you and your children can pursue after a serious wreck may include costs for the following:
- Medical bills including future medical needs
- Costs for medication needed due to your accident
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Physical and emotional therapy needs
- Damages for pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Punitive damages if the other party was malicious or especially negligent
Oronoz & Ericsson, LLC Can Help You After A Car Accident
Children are all too often injured in traffic accidents throughout Nevada. Even if you do everything right, you can still be caught off guard by a reckless driver. Make sure that your child is appropriately buckled into their child seat or seat belt before you take to the road. Contact emergency medical services immediately if you or your child have sustained any harm in a wreck. Many injuries will become worse over time if they are not treated soon. Speak with your lawyer about your options for financial recovery. You and your family have rights after being injured through no fault of your own. However, the legal process can be complex, and it’s advisable to have a skilled personal injury lawyer working for you.
Oronoz & Ericsson, LLC have represented many Las Vegas families after terrible accidents. We understand how your life can be completely interrupted after a serious injury. To discuss your case with one of our car accident lawyers, call our office today at (702) 878-2889.