Pittsburgh Child Car Accident Injury Lawyer

When a child is seriously injured in a car accident, the consequences can be both immediate and long-lasting. Families are often thrust into a situation they never imagined—grappling with urgent medical decisions, emotional upheaval, and an uncertain future. At Matzus Law, LLC, we understand how traumatic and overwhelming this experience can be for parents. We also understand what’s at stake: your child’s health, recovery, and long-term well-being.

For over two decades, our firm has represented families throughout Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania in some of the most serious and emotionally challenging injury cases involving children. We are committed to delivering justice, securing accountability, and obtaining the financial resources necessary to ensure your child has access to the care and support they need—not just now, but for the rest of their life.

Why Children Are More Vulnerable in Car Accidents

Car accidents are a leading cause of serious injury and death among children. Even when properly restrained in child safety seats, children are far more physically vulnerable than adults. Their bodies are smaller, their bones are still developing, and their ability to withstand impact is limited. As a result, even moderate-speed collisions can lead to life-changing injuries.

Some of the most common injuries children suffer in motor vehicle accidents include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which may affect cognitive development, memory, or motor function

  • Spinal cord injuries, which can lead to paralysis or lifelong mobility issues

  • Internal organ damage and internal bleeding

  • Facial fractures and disfigurement

  • Psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

The physical injuries alone are devastating. But the emotional aftermath—fear of riding in a car, behavioral changes, academic difficulties, and social withdrawal—can also affect a child’s development and quality of life in profound ways.

Legal Protections for Children in Pennsylvania Injury Claims

In Pennsylvania, child injury cases are treated with special care under the law. Because minors are not legally able to file lawsuits on their own, a parent or guardian must file the claim on the child’s behalf. Additionally, any settlement or financial recovery involving a minor must be reviewed and approved by the court. This legal safeguard exists to ensure that the child’s best interests are protected and that any funds recovered are preserved for their future needs.

At Matzus Law, we have deep experience navigating these requirements. We prepare and present detailed settlement proposals to the court, assist in establishing trust accounts when required, and make sure your child’s compensation is handled responsibly. You can trust us to protect your child’s legal rights at every stage of the process.

Compensation Available in Child Car Accident Cases

A serious injury can change the course of a child’s life. It can also place an enormous financial strain on the family. In Pennsylvania, families may be entitled to recover compensation that reflects both current and long-term losses. This may include:

  • Emergency room and hospitalization costs

  • Surgical procedures and specialist care

  • Physical, occupational, and psychological therapy

  • Medical equipment, medication, and assistive technology

  • Pain and suffering—both physical and emotional

  • Future loss of earning capacity if the injury affects the child’s ability to work later in life

  • Life care planning, including home modifications and in-home assistance

  • Educational support or tutoring if the child’s injuries interfere with learning

At Matzus Law, we collaborate with medical professionals, economists, and life care planners to build a complete picture of your child’s damages. We don’t rely on insurance adjusters to determine your child’s worth—we fight for what your family truly needs.

What Sets Matzus Law Apart

We recognize that child injury cases demand more than just legal knowledge—they require empathy, attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to doing what’s right. That’s what drives our work every day.

Here’s what makes our firm the right choice for your family:

  • Boutique Advocacy: We limit our caseload to provide personal, responsive representation to each client. Your case will never be lost in the shuffle.

  • Proven Experience: Attorney Jason Matzus has been repeatedly recognized by Super Lawyers, Best Lawyers in America, and The National Trial Lawyers Top 100 for his skill in handling complex injury cases.

  • Results That Matter: We have recovered millions of dollars on behalf of families in Pittsburgh and throughout Pennsylvania—often in difficult cases where other firms might have backed down.

When your child’s future is on the line, you only get one opportunity to get it right. Let us help you make the most of it.

Next Steps After a Child Is Injured in a Car Accident

We know you’re under incredible stress, and it can be hard to know what to do next. Here’s what we recommend:

  1. Seek immediate medical attention for your child, even if injuries seem minor. Symptoms can worsen over time.

  2. Document everything—accident reports, hospital visits, medical bills, and notes from doctors.

  3. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without legal counsel. Their goal is to minimize payouts.

  4. Contact a child injury attorney who understands how to handle cases involving minors and can ensure your child’s rights are fully protected.

    Injured and Have Questions?


FAQs About Child Car Accident Injury Cases in Pennsylvania

How does a child injury claim differ from an adult’s claim?
Minors cannot file lawsuits themselves. A parent or guardian must bring the claim, and any settlement must be approved by a judge.

How long do I have to file a claim for my child’s car accident injury?
Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for minors is typically tolled (paused) until the child turns 18. They generally have until age 20 to file. However, parents can bring a claim sooner to address immediate expenses.

Can my child be compensated for pain and emotional suffering?
Yes. Children are eligible for compensation for both physical pain and emotional trauma related to the accident.

Who holds the settlement money after a case is resolved?
In most cases, settlement funds are placed in a court-supervised trust or restricted account until the child reaches adulthood, unless the court orders otherwise.

Do I need a lawyer for a child injury case?
Yes. These cases are complex and involve strict legal procedures. An experienced lawyer will protect your child’s interests and help maximize your recovery.

At Matzus Law, LLC, we know that no legal outcome can undo the pain your child has endured—but we also know that the right legal guidance can provide your family with stability, security, and justice. You don’t have to go through this alone. Let us stand beside you and fight for what your child deserves.

Call or contact us online today for a free, confidential consultation. We’re ready to help you take the next step toward healing and recovery.