Getting a driver's license when you turn sixteen is probably one of the highlights of a child's high school years as it means a new level of responsibility and freedoms. However, as any parent would be nervous, there is still the very real possibility that a car accident will happen, hopefully though not by the fault of your little "baby." Nevertheless, preparing your teen for an accident is highly encouraged, that way if something does happen, they are prepared to handle the situation if they are not seriously injured. While many accidents can cause extreme injuries and even death to the victims, there are many times that the injuries are minor and the driver can still move around after the incident. Whatever the case may be, knowing a trusted car accident attorney is absolutely crucial in order to make sure that you receive the compensation which is deserved after the accident if there was an injury.
In the hopeful even that your child is not badly harmed in the accident, knowing that they are well prepared can bring not only ease of mind to the parents, but also to the teen in that moment. Obviously, before sending your teen out onto the road, you want to make sure that they are well practiced and defensive drivers, however, no matter how strong of a driver you are, accident can still happen.
First off, when involved in an accident, you want to makes sure you tell your teenage driver to stay calm and take deep breaths. Depending on their personality, after a collision they may be experiencing a host of emotions ranging from fear to anger or guilt, and the calmer they stay in the moment, the easier they will be able to handle the situation and go about the necessary steps after the incident. Next, they need to be warned to keep themselves and the others safe. For example, if the incident occurs in the middle of the highway, if the cars are able at all, they need to pull over to the side of the road, otherwise for safety reasons remain in the vehicle until help comes. Prepare you teen with an emergency kit which should include cones to warn others of the accident ahead.
Next, once they are all in a safe area, check and see for injuries, and then immediately report the accident to the local authorities. Whether the teen is injured or not, having a police report at the scene is extremely beneficial for insurance purposes as well as in the event of a future lawsuit. They will also be able to evaluate the evidence of the scene of the incident to help determine the fault in the accident. Have your teen use his or her cell phone to take pictures of the accident, the damages, all the cars involved, their license plates, and to take down any and all information regarding their contact info and insurance.
If they are able to, it is also beneficial to chart a diagram of the crash site and the location of each of the vehicles, and what happened. Doing so right away will ensure that their memory is most accurate. In some cases, drivers may feel as though the accident was their fault, even though it wasn't, so make sure that your teen knows they should never admit fault at the scene of the accident, no matter what.
In the event that your teen was injured in a car accident, be sure to contact a car accident lawyer near you today to discuss legal matters.