No one expects that they’re going to get into an automobile accident. No matter how well you prepare for it, when an automobile accident happens, it is surprising and often startling. Most people are just happy to make it out of the automobile accident okay. This is especially true for teenage drivers.
Print out this Teenage Car Accident Guide for your child!
Teenage drivers lack the experience of many of their adult counterparts. The following can serve as a teenage car accident guide or a checklist that teenagers can use in the moments following an accident. You can help your teen drivers by printing out a car accident guide and having them place it in the glove box.
What your teen should do if they get into a car accident!
The most important thing to check for in the moments following an automobile accident is that everyone is okay. Drivers should check themselves for injuries and should try to determine if anyone else involved in the automobile accident has been injured or needs medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, quickly contact emergency services by dialing 911. It is imperative that all parties involved stay calm. If someone is hurt, this is not the time to get into a discussion about who is at fault for the accident.
Even if no one is injured, call the police. If it is a non-emergency, the police can be contacted through a local non-emergency line. The sooner law enforcement arrive, the easier it will be for them to assess the situation with the goal of helping you and those around you to stay safe. When the police arrive, it’s a good time to write down phone numbers, license numbers, and personal information from any witnesses who saw the accident.
Mistakes even adults make after a car accident
A mistake that many teenagers make is assuming that law enforcement officials are going to get the names and numbers of witnesses. In the vast majority of cases, they don’t. You have to do it. Also, get information about the law enforcement official who responses to the call. This includes their badge number and any contact numbers they have.
Take photos after the care accident, always!
Thankfully, most teenagers have a cell phone with a camera. Take pictures of the position of the automobiles. Take pictures of the license plates of all vehicles involved. Take photographs of the driver’s licenses and insurance cards of other drivers. If your phone is equipped with video, get a video of the area as well.
When you talk to lawyers, like those at Sutliff & Stout for example, they often advise their clients to not admit fault. At the same time, don’t try to blame the other driver.
Finally, teenagers should contact their parents or guardians. Parents can provide needed assistance and lend teenagers much-needed credibility in the moments following an automobile accident.
No one wants to get into an automobile accident. If you find yourself involved in one, following the steps outlined above can help you to have the best outcome possible after the accident.
Attachment Parenting a Teenager
As crunchy parents we have spent the last 18 years cultivating attachment parenting, our bond with our oldest daughter. Now we find ourselves having to let go a bit, to get comfortable with distance. This is not an easy situation I have to admit. I worry about her. I worry that some new situation we have not already helped her through will happen and we will not be right there. I really love the idea of this car accident guild, I hope you will love it too.
