10 Vital Steps to Take After a Car Accident with Your Kids 

Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest post about steps to take after a car accident with your kids.

Image Source: Unsplash

Car accidents are already a terrifying experience all on their own, but if your child was also present at the time of the accident, the resulting shock could affect your mental health. If you’re ever in a motor vehicle accident with your child, you’ll need to act quickly and intelligently. 

What to do if Your Child was Injured in a Car Accident 

Keeping your child safe at home is one thing, but on the road, you can’t account for other drivers. What you do next in an accident scenario can protect your child’s health and well-being.

1. Check on Your Children

Unless you’re seriously injured, check on your children immediately after the accident. Look for visual cuts, burns, or broken bones first, then ask your children if anything hurts. Ask them to point towards the pain. Don’t move or push against your child in case they’re seriously injured.

2. Call an Ambulance 

Before doing anything else, call an ambulance if you suspect you or your child are injured. Most young children may not know how impactful their injuries are. If you can’t afford an ambulance, take your child to the doctor or ask the other driver to call the ambulance for you (if possible).

3. Call the Law Enforcement

One of the accident victims must call the police immediately after the collision. Once the police arrive, they’ll help you file a police report and investigate who’s at fault. Then, exchange your insurance and personal information with the other driver. Be sure to take photos of the scene.

4. Call a Car Accident Lawyer

If you or your child is injured, you may be able to sue for damages. Contact a legal professional like a car accident lawyer if you have proof that the other driver caused your child’s injuries. An experienced auto accident attorney will know how to present your case to improve your chances of getting the maximum compensation. If your children don’t appear to be injured, physically or mentally, that doesn’t always mean they aren’t.

5. Monitor Your Children

Children, especially young children, may be in pain but don’t know how to express it. Some injuries can take days, even weeks, to manifest, while others worsen with time. Pay attention to non-verbal or non-physical signs (i.e., avoidance or tantrums) and trust your instincts.

6. Schedule a Follow-Up

Consult your pediatrician within the next couple of days, even if you were assessed on-site. They can examine if your child’s conditions have changed since the crash. Keep a copy of your medical records, as they’ll be needed for your insurance claim and/or to sue for damages. 

7. Help your Child Recover

Car accidents are horrifying, especially for children. They may not know what to do or who to turn to when they’re feeling sad. Younger children (and teens) may act out in their own way or experience depression, nightmares, or headaches. Let your child know they can talk to you.

8. Call Your Insurance Provider

In an at-fault state, the other driver will be responsible for your damages. However, it’s a good idea to speak to your insurance provider if you plan on filing a claim or pursuing a settlement. You have to contact your insurer a few days after the crash, or you’ll hurt your case in court.

9. Prove the Damages

In the event that you do sue for damages, you’ll need to prepare evidence for your case. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on a number of factors, such as lost wages, medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, punitive damages, and funeral costs.

10. Prove Who’s at Fault

With the help of a car accident lawyer, (and photo documentation of the scene), you can prove that the other driver is at fault. You can choose to reach a settlement with the insurance company, but you may receive less than you expect. In these cases, consider taking the matter to court.