What To Do: You’ve Been In A Crash With Kids In The Car

Being involved in a car crash is a harrowing experience, and it becomes even more stressful when there are children in the vehicle. Knowing what steps to take immediately following an accident can help to better ensure everyone’s safety and to safeguard everyone’s well-being.

The first step is to check if anyone in the car, especially the children, is injured. Even if there are no visible injuries, it’s crucial to be cautious as some injuries, like whiplash or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. The health of everyone involved is the most important concern. Everything else can wait. Therefore, you’ll want to dial 911 as soon as possible. Even when it comes to minor accidents, it’s important to get kids – and adults too – checked out by medical personnel before they’re moved.

WHAT NEXT?

Accidents can be frightening for children. Keep them calm and reassured. If they are very young, try to distract them from the scene. It’s important to stay as calm as possible yourself, as children will often mirror the reactions of adults and their trauma may be compounded if the adults involved are – for lack of a better phrase – freaking out.

Remember, if your child was in a car seat or buckled into a standard seat during the accident, do not remove them unless there’s an immediate danger (like fire). Improper handling can worsen hidden injuries. Wait for medical professionals to arrive and assess the situation. Some injuries are not immediately noticeable, especially in young children who may not be able to articulate their discomfort.

If you can, exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Take photos of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damage, and the surrounding area. However, ensure this does not interfere with the safety and well-being of your children.

Finally, monitor your child for any signs of injury or trauma in the days following the accident. Sometimes symptoms or discomfort can appear days later. Additionally, be attentive to any signs of emotional trauma or anxiety in your child related to the accident and seek a car accident lawyer for help if needed. You may also benefit from seeking legal assistance, as you may be entitled to compensation from an at-fault party.