Our client was driving with her two young sons, ages 6 and 4, secured in car seats in the back, along a busy roadway in Bellevue when another vehicle suddenly pulled out from a shopping mall exit directly into her path. Traveling at approximately 25 to 30 mph, she had no time to react before a head-on collision occurred. The impact was severe, with airbags deploying and both vehicles ultimately declared total losses.

Following the crash, our client began experiencing persistent neck and back pain along with stiffness. She sought treatment from her primary care provider and was diagnosed with cervical and lumbar strain. She was referred for both physical therapy and massage therapy. During her initial evaluation, it was noted that she could not carry her 1½-year-old child for more than five minutes due to pain. She also reported left hip pain when walking, along with generalized aching across her shoulders and neck, and tenderness with muscle spasms in the lower back. Each step with her left leg caused sharp pain in her hip.

Her injuries also interfered with her ability to perform her job duties in her language translation business. She continued treatment for approximately five months, enduring ongoing pain and limitations throughout her recovery.

The emotional impact on her children was also significant. Both boys experienced psychological trauma from the accident. Due to their fear of riding in a car and ongoing anxiety about speed, their mother sought help from a child psychologist. Both children were diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Because of their young age, treatment focused on coaching the mother with techniques to help manage and reduce their symptoms, rather than direct clinical sessions with the children.

The six-year-old exhibited symptoms including anxiety, irritability, and hypervigilance, frequently expressing fear that the vehicle was moving too fast even under normal driving conditions. The four-year-old showed symptoms of anxiety, irritability, withdrawal, nightmares, and difficulty sleeping.

Although the medical treatment in this case was relatively limited, the physical and emotional impact on the family was substantial. Despite these challenges, MartinLaw PLLC successfully negotiated significant five-figure settlements for the clients.

To learn how MartinLaw PLLC and attorney Chuck Martin can assist with your car accident case, please contact the firm for a free evaluation.