A 2020 study by the CDC revealed that nearly 2800 minors died and another 227,000 were injured in car accidents. That implies that about eight children died each day, and hundreds more suffered injuries. Car accident deaths among minors have also cost about $40.7 billion in medical costs and lives lost.

Unfortunately, minors are often the victims of negligence due to their lack of knowledge or understanding of their rights. As a parent or guardian, it can also be difficult to navigate these issues. Carmel accident lawyers can offer legal guidance on how best to approach the claim while protecting the rights of a minor.

Common Accidents that Result in Compensable Child Injuries

If the negligence of another party causes a compensable injury, the injured person may be entitled to seek financial compensation. This type of injury may result from an accident, an intentional act, or a combination of both. Examples of compensable injuries include:

  • Medical expenses related to the injury
  • Lost wages due to inability to work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Any other damages or losses related to the injury.

Common accidents that involve minors are much like ones that affect adults:

  • Falls: They can occur anywhere, including in the home, on playgrounds, at school, or while participating in sports.
  • Motor Vehicle Accidents: According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, most accidents involving minors are due to alcohol abuse.
  • Bicycle Accidents: These can be very serious, and multiple parties may be liable for the injuries suffered by the victim.
  • Dog Bites: In many cases, dog owners may be liable for the injuries their pet causes to a child.
  • Medical Malpractice: If a medical professional fails to provide the proper standard of care, a child can suffer serious injuries.
  • Product Liability: If a manufacturer or retailer produces or sells a faulty product that causes a child’s injury, they may be liable for the damages.
  • Swimming Pool Accidents: Due to the potential for drowning, swimming pool accidents can result in serious injuries or even death.

If your child has been involved in any of the above accidents, seek the counsel of accident lawyers in Carmel. They will help you navigate the complex legal process of seeking compensation for a minor’s injury.

Forms of Compensation for a Minor Injured in an Accident

A minor can recover economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. Sometimes, the minor can recover punitive damages to punish the at-fault party. The minor’s parents can also seek compensation for their child’s injury losses.

The Court Must Approve Settlements in Minor Accident Cases

The court must approve any settlement involving a minor in a personal injury case. This court approval ensures that the minor’s rights are being adequately protected. In doing this, the court will review the settlement agreement and ensure that the amount of compensation is fair and adequate for the minor’s injuries. Additionally, the court may appoint a “guardian ad litem” to represent the child’s interests.

Call Wagner Reese for Any Minor-Involved Accident

Seek legal help immediately when a minor has been injured in an accident to protect their rights. Parents and guardians can obtain legal advice and guidance on proceeding with a personal injury claim by consulting an experienced accident attorney at Wagner Reese. Our team can help protect minors’ rights and fight for appropriate compensation for their injuries.

If you or a child in your family has been injured in an accident, contact our Carmel office in Indiana today to discuss your case.