Motor vehicle accidents kill more teenagers than anything else, resulting in eight deaths per day. Young drivers may only represent 5% of drivers, but they account for 8.4% of drivers involved in fatal crashes. NHTSA data shows there were 5,565 fatalities in crashes involving young drivers in 2021, compared to 5,069 in 2020. Worst of all, this figure is rising year on year. 

No parent wants their young, inexperienced teenager to get into a car crash, but inevitably, crashes can and do happen. And when the worst does happen, you want to make sure you respond appropriately to support your teen during this difficult situation. 

The experienced car accident lawyers from Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law, an experienced car accident law firm in Orlando, share some necessary steps to take if your teen is involved in a car accident.

Assess the Car Accident and Call 911

First things first, assess the scene and make sure everyone involved, including your teen, is uninjured or receiving proper medical care. If there are any significant injuries or safety hazards, call 911 immediately. Provide the exact location and any details you can about the number of vehicles involved, apparent property damage, and need for ambulance transport. Ensure your teen does not leave the car accident scene until the police arrive and get all the required information.

Remain Calm and Comfort Your Teen After The Car Accident

Car accidents can be traumatic, so try to remain calm and comfort your teen. Reassure them that everything will be okay and help them contact you if needed. Do not immediately place blame or punish your teen, as they are likely shaken up. Have compassion and focus on getting through the initial aftermath.

After The Car Accident,  Exchange Insurance Information

When the police arrive, cooperate fully and exchange insurance information with the other driver. Get their name, contact details, driver’s license number, insurance details, and any eyewitness account information. Make sure the police file a car crash report on the scene. If the other driver does not have insurance or tries to flee, alert the police and file a report anyway.

Seek Medical Attention After The Car Accident

Even if your teen seems unharmed, take them to a doctor for a complete examination after securing the auto accident scene. Follow all advice on care and recovery. Seek counseling if emotional trauma lingers – even minor car accidents can cause lingering psychological distress. 14%-43% of boys experience at least one trauma, and 1%-6% of them will develop PTSD. 

Contact a Car Accident Lawyer

Consider contacting an attorney to protect your teen’s legal interests. Car accident lawyers can handle insurance negotiations, determine fault and liability, file claims and lawsuits on your behalf, and advise you on the best course of action. Many personal injury attorneys offer free consultations. Find one experienced in car accident cases and discuss your options.

You Should Also Contact Your Insurance Provider After The Car Accident

Notify your insurance provider about the accident right away. Explain all known details about how the car accident occurred, the damage to vehicles, any related injuries, and the police report filed. Find out the required steps related to claims and repairs. 

Once the dust has settled, sit down with your teen and discuss the auto accident, how it happened, and how to prevent similar car accidents in the future. Do not approach this conversation in an angry, punitive way. Find out if additional driver education could help avoid car accidents. Ultimately, use the experience to teach your teen constructive lessons about safe driving habits.