Your first car accident can be very traumatic. If the time comes when your child gets into a car accident, it’s essential that you know how to deal with the situation in a mature and supportive way. Here are some tips on how to handle your teenagers first car crash as a parent in Kentucky.
Make sure they are okay
The first thing you should do if your teen driver is in an accident is to make sure that they are okay. Before asking them what happened and investigating them about the situation, their health is the most important thing.
As someone who just got their driver’s license, they will likely be disappointed in themselves and might even think that they have disappointed you. It can be very traumatic for them, so it’s important that you comfort them and let them know that it isn’t the end of the world.
Tell them to gather information
After you have calmed them down, tell them to gather as much information as they can. They should try to get the contact information of the other driver including their full name and their phone number. If they have a smartphone, tell them to take pictures of the accident.
Go to the scene
If you are able to, it will be smart for you to head to the scene of the accident. You will be able to emotionally support your child, and you will be able to witness the motor vehicle accident for yourself, so it will be easier to explain to an insurance agent if the teenager isn’t able to remember exactly what happened.
Encourage them to keep driving
After getting into a car accident, they may be traumatized and afraid to get back on the road. This is especially true if it was a serious car accident in which they have sustained some injuries. You want to try to get them back driving as soon as possible to show them that they don’t have to be afraid of the road.
After a traumatic experience, helping your teen driver recover can be difficult. They may still be hesitant, but it’s important to be patient, understanding and supportive until they’re ready to get back on the road again.
