How to Help Your Kids Cope with a Car Accident

According to recent data, an estimated 139,042 children were injured in traffic crashes in 2020, which was a 24% decrease from 183,166 injuries in 2019. Of the 23,824 occupants killed in passenger vehicle crashes in 2020, 755 (3%) were children. Of those 755 child deaths, restraint use was known for 680 children – and 286 (42%) were unrestrained. Out of the 6,516 pedestrian fatalities in 2020, 177 (3%) were children. On average, a child is involved in a crash while riding in a passenger vehicle every 25 seconds. 

This article provides tips on how to help your kids cope emotionally and recover after experiencing a car accident.

Understanding Your Child’s Reaction

Children can have a wide range of reactions after being in a car accident. Some common reactions include anger, sadness, fear, confusion, anxiety, guilt, changes in sleep/eating habits, withdrawal from friends and family, and somatic symptoms like headaches or stomachaches. How your child reacts depends on factors like their age, personality, and the severity of the accident. Take time to understand your child’s unique reaction.

Providing Emotional Support

Your child needs support and reassurance after an accident. Spend quality time together, listening carefully when they want to discuss the accident. Avoid pressuring them to talk before they are ready. Offer comfort through hugs, cuddling, or just being present. Keep your routine consistent, and help younger kids use soothing items like stuffed animals or blankets. Validate their feelings, correct any misconceptions about the accident, and emphasize that they are safe now.

Considering Legal Action

In addition to providing emotional support for your child, you may also want to consider contacting a car crash lawyer regarding any potential legal action related to the car accident. An attorney can advise you on steps to take to protect your and your child’s rights and seek fair compensation if injuries or other damages occur.

Watching for Signs of Trauma

While most kids recover within a few weeks, some develop post-traumatic stress disorder. Contact a mental health professional if symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, or avoidance of cars/driving persist after a month. Other signs include excessive irritability or anger, trouble concentrating, regression like bedwetting, or repeatedly reenacting the accident in play. Getting help quickly leads to better outcomes.

Encouraging Your Child to Talk About Fears

As your child processes the accident, talking about fears is healthy. Have open conversations about traffic safety, why the accident occurred, and how unlikely a repeat accident is when proper precautions are taken. If they seem afraid to ride in cars, start small with short drives around your neighborhood in daylight. Praise any brave behavior and go at their pace. Avoid criticism or forcing them to confront fears before they are ready.

Reassuring Your Child About Safety

Take steps to reassure your child that proper safety precautions will be taken going forward. Make sure they are always buckled into age-appropriate, properly installed car seats. Car seats that are properly fitted can reduce the risk of fatal injury by 71% for infants and by 54% for toddlers. Follow all traffic laws, avoid distracted driving, and be a safe, attentive driver. Let them see you checking seat belts, headlights, etc. to reinforce that safety is a priority.

With emotional support, patience, and time, most children recover well after a car accident. Trust your instincts, watch for any ongoing issues, and get professional help if needed. Keeping your child’s unique needs in mind while providing comfort and security will help guide them through this challenging experience.