No matter what steps you take to keep your teen safe while out on the road, accidents can happen at any time. Here is a quick glimpse at some steps that you can take to help your teen get past an auto collision and move on with their life.
Head to the Hospital
It is an unfortunate fact that even relatively minor auto accidents can result in severe injuries. That is why many experts suggest that all drivers and passengers head to the hospital after a collision unless it was a fender bender. You must also keep a close eye on your teenager in the weeks following their accident to see if there are any lingering health issues, such as back problems or neck pain.
Follow the Doctor’s Instructions Exactly
One of the most common mistakes that people make after being in an auto accident is not following the doctor’s instructions. After a few days, your teenager might feel as if they are no longer injured because the pain has worn off. Unfortunately, there could still be serious damage, and they need to continue following all of the instructions given to them by their medical team. That includes heading to any follow-up appointments that their doctor has scheduled.
Contact an Attorney
Whenever a collision results in injuries or serious damage to a vehicle, an auto accident attorney should always be called. While you might think that an insurance provider will fairly compensate a driver after a collision, this can be an overly optimistic viewpoint. Insurance companies are out to make money, and they want to close these cases as quickly as possible. An attorney can help you take control of the situation and begin negotiating with the insurance provider. You’re more likely to get a reasonable settlement in this instance.
Don’t Ignore Their Psychological Well-Being
In addition to the physical pain that an accident can cause, those events can also result in psychological problems. That is why it is so important to constantly talk with your teenager in the months following their accident. If you notice a sudden shift in their personality or demeanor, then you should consider contacting a therapist who specializes in trauma. One of those professionals can help your teen work through their emotions.
Even if your teen seems to be completely fine following an accident, they could still be struggling with physical or mental issues. Seeking out professional help and continuing to support them will greatly reduce their risk of developing long-term health complications.
Author info: Anita Ginsburg is a freelance writer from Denver, CO. She studied at Colorado State University and now writes articles about health, business, family, and finance. A mother of two, she enjoys traveling with her family whenever she isn’t writing. You can follow her on Twitter @anitaginsburg.
