Whether they’re heading off to school or making dinner plans with their friends, your teen is always out of the house once they get their driver’s license. This could be an exciting rite of passage for your kids, but it also means they may encounter their first fender bender, scratch, or ding. If you receive a dire phone call from your teenager, handle their first car accident with care by advising your teen of their next steps and completing all the necessary paperwork.
Stay Calm and Reassure Your Teen
While you need all the details as soon as possible, how you react to the situation will change your teenager’s demeanor. Teens are prone to car accidents, so stay composed and reassure them that you two are in control. Encourage them to breathe, stay safe, and focus on the steps they need to take.
Ensure Everyone Is Safe
Before you ask about the condition of the car or the events leading up to the incident, check if everyone is unharmed. Advise your teen to move to a safe location off the road, if possible, and to check for any injuries. If someone is hurt, make sure they call 911 for emergency assistance, and remind them not to leave the scene.
Document the Accident Scene
Guide your teen about how to handle important information. Details such as the other driver’s name, insurance information, license plate number, and contact info will expedite the insurance claims and police reports. Also, take clear photos of the cars, license plates, and any damage for reference.
File a Police Report
If the accident involves injuries, significant damage, or anything illegal (like fleeing the scene), be sure to file a police report. Explain to your teenager how to contact the local police department and provide honest details about what happened.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Once everyone is accounted for and the scene is clear, you or your teen will need to notify your auto insurance company. Provide all collected documentation and explain the accident clearly. Many insurance providers now allow users to file claims online or through apps, so document the details of the accident ASAP.
Schedule Car Repair
Once the insurance claim process is underway, contact your trusted mechanic or body shop about repairs. Even a minor accident requires bumper repair if the collision affected the structure of the vehicle. Whether it’s you or your teen delivering the car to the auto shop, make sure to get an estimate for the repair costs and confirm whether the insurance will cover all or part of the expenses.
Once you resolve the insurance and repair the car, talk to your teenager about how the two of you handled their first car accident. These transparent conversations will help you bond your relationship and expedite the process if it ever happens again. Give your kids comfort and acknowledge their experience as they head back out on the road.
