How to Help a Child After a Car Accident

Posted on March 26, 2025 writen by Jane Paulson in Car Accident

A car accident can be incredibly harmful, and if a child is involved, it’s even more so. Parents who experience an accident in Oregon must act quickly and thoughtfully to protect their children’s health, emotions, and legal standing. 

Understanding how to help a child after a car accident ensures they receive the care and support needed for a full recovery. Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC team of attorneys explains the legal journey following an accident and the proper steps to regain your everyday life. 

Ensuring Your Child’s Safety and Well-Being After a Crash 

Your child’s safety comes first after an accident, even a minor one. In case of shock and confusion, taking these tips during crucial moments can help you and your child to ease recovery and prevent complexities: 

Check for Injuries

Before anything else, assess your child for visible injuries or signs of pain. Even if there are no immediate symptoms, remain cautious—some injuries, like concussions, may not present right away.

Seek Professional Medical Attention

A pediatric evaluation is essential, even if your child appears unharmed. Conditions such as whiplash, internal bruising, or head trauma can take hours or days to manifest. Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and provide documentation if legal action is required.

Provide Emotional Comfort and Stability

Car accidents are frightening, especially for children. Remain calm, speak soothingly, and let them know they are safe. Children often look to their parents for cues on processing distressing events.

Follow Up with Medical Care

Ensure your child attends all follow-up medical appointments. Some injuries or psychological effects may not be immediately obvious but can become apparent in the days or weeks following the accident. Doctors can monitor their progress, identify delayed symptoms, and recommend therapy or rehabilitation.

Recognizing Signs of Physical and Emotional Trauma 

It’s not just physical injuries that need attention; emotional trauma can have lasting effects on a child’s well-being. The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia warns that trauma symptoms in children may be subtle but significant.

Physical Signs to Watch Out For:

• Persistent headaches or dizziness
• Unexplained bruising, swelling, or tenderness
• Difficulty walking or reduced mobility

Emotional and Behavioral Signs:

• Nightmares or difficulty sleeping
• Increased fear or reluctance to ride in a car
• Withdrawal from social activities or sudden mood swings

If your child exhibits any of these symptoms, consider consulting a child psychologist or trauma specialist. Early intervention can make a crucial difference in their recovery.

Legal Steps to Protect Your Child’s Rights: How to Help a Child After a Car Accident 

While prioritizing your child’s health is essential, understanding their legal rights is equally critical. Car accidents often result in medical expenses, therapy costs, and emotional distress—damages that should not be overlooked.

When to Seek Compensation for Medical and Emotional Damages 

Recovering from an accident can be costly, but financial relief may be available. Compensation can help cover:

• Emergency medical bills and hospital stays
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Psychological counseling for trauma recovery
• Loss of quality of life due to injuries or emotional distress

Oregon follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning a party must be less than 50% responsible for the accident to claim compensation. Working with an experienced attorney can strengthen your case and ensure your child’s needs are fully addressed. 

The Importance of Consulting a Car Accident Lawyer 

Navigating a legal claim while caring for an injured child can be daunting. Parents often find themselves balancing doctor visits, emotional support, and financial concerns while trying to secure the compensation their child deserves. An experienced attorney can lift the legal burden, allowing families to focus on healing while protecting their rights.

The legal team at Paulson Coletti provides invaluable services, including:

• Conducting thorough investigations and gathering crucial evidence
• Coordinating with medical professionals to assess injuries accurately
• Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair settlements
• Representing families in court when necessary

Additionally, Oregon’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years, meaning there is a limited window to take legal action. Seeking legal counsel immediately ensures delays do not jeopardize your child’s future and recovery.

Our Legal Team Is Here to Help Your Family Recover 

We have a proven track record of success, securing millions in settlements and verdicts for injured families. Our firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

If you’re wondering how to help a child after a car accident, legal guidance is a crucial step in their recovery journey. Call Paulson Coletti Trial Attorneys PC today for a free consultation. Together, we’ll help your family rebuild and move forward.