Car accidents are unfortunately very common among teenage drivers. Teens aged 16-19 are at a higher risk of getting into crashes than any other age group, according to statistics. In 2020 alone, around 2,800 teens aged 13-19 died and 227,000 were injured in car crashes in the United States. This amounts to about eight teen deaths and hundreds of injuries from car accidents every single day. These crashes resulted in $40.7 billion in medical costs and lost lives in 2020.
The good news is that according to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the number of teen driver deaths decreased for the first time since 2019. In 2022, 2,547 teens died in car crashes as drivers or occupants, down 7.2% from 2,744 in 2021. However, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of preventable deaths for American teenagers, with the NHTSA estimating 2,883 total teen deaths, including pedestrians and bicyclists, averaging nearly eight deaths per day.
Clearly, teens are at very high risk on the road, especially at night and on weekends. If your teen does get into an accident, stay calm and follow these steps.
In This Article
Contact Law Enforcement
“The first thing you should do is contact law enforcement to report the accident”, car accident attorney Jordan A. Marzzacco said. “Make sure your teen and any passengers are in a safe location and not still on the road”.
Provide the location of the accident and cooperate fully with any police investigation. Exchange insurance and contact information with the other driver if possible. Get a copy of the police report for insurance and legal purposes.
Get Help from a Medical Professional
Even if no one seems injured, it’s important to get medical attention promptly after an accident. Some injuries like concussions may not be immediately obvious. Take your teen and any passengers to the emergency room or urgent care to get thoroughly evaluated. This medical record will also be important documentation if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later.
Report the Incident to the Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the accident right away. Provide them with details like the time, location, injuries, damage, police report, and other driver’s insurance information. Find out from the claims adjuster what steps you need to take regarding repairs, medical bills, and liability decisions. Save all communications with the insurance company.
Consult an Attorney
It’s highly recommended to consult an attorney after your teen’s accident before communicating further with insurance companies. An attorney can advise you on your legal rights and insurance options while aggressively advocating for your interests. They can handle complex legal negotiations and make sure insurance settlements adequately cover your expenses. For severe accidents with major injuries or property damage, a car accident attorney is essential.
Address Driving Privileges
Discuss any changes or restrictions to your teen’s driving privileges going forward, involving them in the conversation. Set clear rules, boundaries, and responsibilities. Consider requiring the completion of a defensive driving course as a condition of driving again. Emphasize the fact that driving is a privilege requiring responsibility and maturity.
Prioritize Your Teen’s Recovery
Make your teen’s physical and emotional recovery your top priority after an accident. Be patient and understanding as they process this trauma. Arrange counseling or support groups to help work through intense feelings. Focus on healing before worrying about academics or social activities. Reassure your teen that the accident wasn’t their fault and you still trust them.
With time, support, and safe driving improvements, your family can move forward from this difficult experience.
