What happens after the accident? How do we assist children with their recovery, both physical and mental? How does an adult make a claim on a child’s behalf and what happens if the child caused the accident?
Who is entitled to make a claim?
If your child is under 18 and has been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you as their parent or guardian have the right to claim for compensation on their behalf. Shine Lawyers can help you through this stressful time and help you acquire the maximum amount of compensation you’re entitled to. This amount depends on who was at fault during the accident and how much each party was liable.
After an accident, your first step is to seek medical attention. Not only is it crucially important for your child’s recovery, it’s also important for your claim in terms of gathering evidence including photographs and medical assessments. Upon seeking medical treatment, contact Shine Lawyers as soon as possible for a thorough assessment of your claim.
Common injuries suffered by children in car accidents?
According to a Department of Transportation study, head injuries were the most common type of injuries suffered by children in car accidents. This category includes concussions, fractures and even traumatic brain injury resulting in long-term cognitive and / or behavioural difficulties.
Other kinds of injuries include injuries from broken glass, chest injuries from collisions with the seat in front of them and emotional and psychological injuries. Even if no physical harm came to the child, they may still need therapy or counselling to be able to move forward with their lives.
The NSW Government State Insurance Regulatory Authority has published a useful reference guide for helping a child to recover emotionally after a motor vehicle accident: https://www.sira.nsw.gov.au/resources-library/motor-accident-resources/publications/for-professionals/emotional-recovery-in-children-after-a-car-crash.
What happens if the child is at fault?
Even if the child contributed to the cause the accident, they may still be able to claim for compensation.
Contact Us
If you, your child or another loved one has been injured in a car accident, Shine Lawyers can help. Our motor vehicle accident lawyers are experts in their field who work on a no win, no fee basis. To find out more visit https://www.shine.com.au/service/motor-vehicle-accidents.
