Parent Guide to Handling a Teen Car Accident
Once your teen gets their driver’s license, there’s a good chance that they’re ready to hit the road. According to the CDC, almost 2,400 teenagers in the US were killed in automobile accidents in 2019.
As a parent, it’s important to know how to handle a scenario if or when your teen gets into a car accident.
Read on to learn how you can deal with a teen car accident so your child has the support they need to deal with this traumatic experience.
Show Concern and Support
Teen car accidents are upsetting for everyone involved. As a parent, it’s important to show your concern and to be as supportive as possible.
Immediately after the accident is not the time to make accusations or scold your teenager. simply let them know you’re there for them, and then get to the scene as quickly as possible if you can. If your teen is injured, have them seek medical help right away.
Once you arrive, make sure that your teenager is OK and that they’ve called the authorities. Help them take photos of the scene and any vehicle damage. They’ll need to have this key information to show to the insurance company later.
Filing a Teen Car Accident Claim
Regardless of who’s at fault, you’ll need to file an auto insurance claim after the teen car accident. Let your teen listen in on the call if you’re the person holding the policy so they understand how the process works.
Explain to your teen that they need to be honest and thorough when they file any type of insurance claim. Show them the steps involved in the process of making claims so they’re prepared to do so on their own in the future.
Depending on the severity of the accident, the vehicle may be totaled. This is a chance to show your teen the importance of safe driving and just how complex the insurance process is. It’s also an opportunity to reinforce the importance of safe driving habits.
Dealing with the Emotional Aftermath
Hopefully, everyone involved in the accident is safe and uninjured. Regardless, your teenager will likely feel some form of emotional response once the chaos calms down.
Explain to your teen that a car accident is just that: an accident. No one wants to get involved in an automobile accident if they can avoid it. Let them know that it’s ok and normal to feel upset, angry, and sad about what happened.
Let your teen know that they don’t have to tell anyone about the accident if it makes them feel uncomfortable. The most important thing that parents can do is show their understanding and support.
Keep Your Teen Safe
You can’t always avoid a teen car accident, but you can do your best to handle it in the right way. With a little support and guidance, your teen will be back on the road again in no time.
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