Perhaps the only thing scarier than getting into a car accident yourself is when your teenage driver gets into one. If this unfortunate event happens, it’s important that you’re there for your teenager to provide them with the support they need. Below are a few ways that you can support your teenager after an accident to help them get back on their feet and ensure their long-term health.
Follow After-Accident Procedures
If your teenager calls you directly after the auto accident, the first thing you’ll want to do is ensure that they’re okay, then make sure that they go through the proper procedures. If you’re close by, you can drive to the scene of the accident, but if not, you can also direct them through these steps over the phone. Some of the things they’ll need to do after the accident are to file a police report and take some pictures of the accident scene. Doing both of these things is useful if you end up fighting a legal battle or have issues with your insurance company.
Get them Medical Assistance
The next essential item to focus on is the health of your teenager. Even if they escaped the accident without any obvious signs of an injury, it’s still a good idea to get them checked out by a doctor. There could be some underlying problems that they’re unaware of, that if left untreated, could grow into a more serious threat. A doctor can prescribe medications or treatments, such as chiropractic treatments, that will help alleviate your teenager’s problems.
At the same time, getting checked out by a doctor creates a record of your injuries, which you may need in any legal proceedings. Health is the most important thing to focus on in the aftermath of an accident, so be sure to make this a priority no matter how fine your teenager may seem.
Find Legal Representation
In many cases, you may need legal help in the aftermath of an accident. For example, if your teenager was in an accident with someone who didn’t have insurance, this could create problems when it comes to paying for the damage to your vehicle. Your child probably doesn’t know what to do when it comes to finding good legal representation, so your help here is invaluable.
According to this Chopin Law Firm attorney from New Orleans, “When searching for legal representation, work with a team that has experience with car accidents. Injury cases are not like other cases, and you’ll want a lawyer that knows how to best represent you in these matters.” Call some local law firms and ask them if you not only have a case but what they’ll charge. If possible, search for a lawyer that only gets paid if you win the case.
Drive Them Where They Need to Go
A simple thing you can do for your teenager after an accident is to drive them where they need to go. In some cases, they may be unable to use their vehicle while it receives repairs or they may be too injured to drive safely. Your teenager may have a job that they need to get to, or a social life that they want to continue, and giving them the occasional ride, or use of your vehicle, can be a significant help.
Provide Financial Assistance
Your teenager may also need financial assistance after an accident. For example, they may need some money to help pay for their vehicle repairs if insurance doesn’t cover everything or they may need some additional spending money if they’re unable to work for a short time. If you’re able, provide your teenager with the financial assistance they need. You can either give them the money as a gift or establish that you expect them to pay back the money in the future.
Ensure Their Mental Wellbeing
Finally, be sure to check in on your teenager’s mental well-being. Getting into an accident is scary and can cause some stress going forward. Your teenager may be afraid of driving again or even of getting into a vehicle. In some cases, they may hide these fears and find other ways to cope with them. It’s a good idea to frequently check in with your teenager after an accident to ensure they’re doing alright. If need be, set them an appointment with a mental health professional.
Help Your Child Through the Car Accident Process
The aftermath of a car accident isn’t always easy, but you can make it easier on your teenager by offering them some assistance. Little things like giving them a ride or loaning them some money can go a long way, and essential tasks like taking them to a doctor or checking on their mental health are too important to ignore. We hope that you never need the suggestions above, but if the time comes that you do, you’ll be glad you know how to best help your teenager after an accident.