Helping Your Teen Navigate a Car Accident: A Preparedness Checklist

Car accidents are stressful for anyone, but they can be particularly overwhelming for teenage drivers. That moment of impact can bring a rush of emotions – fear, confusion, maybe even panic. But knowing what to do before an accident ever happens can make a significant difference in staying safe and handling the situation correctly.

At Parkway Insurance Group, we believe that caring makes the difference, and that includes helping our young drivers be as prepared as possible. This checklist is designed to guide teens through the crucial steps to take immediately after an accident. We encourage parents to review this with their teens.

Your Teen’s Post-Accident Checklist: Safety First!

The most important thing is everyone’s safety. Here’s what to do:

1. STOP and Stay Calm:
   
   
   • Safely stop your vehicle. Never leave the scene of an accident.
   • Take a few deep breaths. Staying as calm as possible will help you think clearly.
     
     
2. PRIORITIZE SAFETY – Check for Injuries:
   
   
   • First, check yourself for any injuries. Then, check on your passengers.
   • If it’s safe to do so, check on the people in the other vehicle(s).
   • If anyone is injured, call emergency services immediately (e.g., 911 or the specific local emergency number). Clearly state your location and that there are injuries.
     
     
3. MAKE THE SCENE SAFE (If Possible and No Serious Injuries):
   
   
   • If the accident is minor and there are no serious injuries, and if it’s safe and legal to do so (especially if obstructing traffic), move the vehicles to the side of the road.
   • Turn on your hazard lights. If you have them, set out warning triangles or flares.
     
     
4. CALL FOR HELP (Parents/Guardians & Authorities):
   
   
   • Call your parents or a trusted adult. Let them know what happened and your location. They can offer support and guidance.
   • Call the police or local traffic enforcers, especially if there are injuries, significant damage, or disagreement about what happened.
     
     
5. EXCHANGE INFORMATION CALMLY AND POLITELY:
   
   
   • Exchange the following information with the other driver(s) involved:
     • Full Name and Contact Number
     • Address
     • Driver’s License Number
     • Vehicle Plate Number (License Plate)
     • Vehicle Make, Model, and Year
     • Insurance Company Name and Policy Number
   • Important: Only discuss the facts of the accident. Be polite and cooperative.
     
     
6. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING (If Safe to Do So):
   
   
   • Photos are key! Use your phone to take pictures of:
     • The entire accident scene from different angles.
     • All vehicles involved, showing the damage to each.
     • The other vehicle’s license plate.
     • Any road conditions, traffic signals, or signs relevant to the accident.
     • The other driver’s license and insurance card (if they allow it, otherwise, write it down).
   • Write down notes: Date, time, and specific location of the accident. Weather and road conditions. A brief, factual description of how the accident occurred. Names and contact information of any witnesses.
     
     
7. COOPERATE WITH AUTHORITIES:
   
   
   • When the police or traffic enforcers arrive, answer their questions honestly and factually.
   • Get the name and badge number of the responding officer(s) and ask for the incident or report number.
     
     
8. WHAT NOT TO DO:
   
   
   • Do NOT admit fault or blame others at the scene. Stick to the facts.
   • Do NOT argue with the other driver or passengers.
   • Do NOT sign any documents unless it’s for the police, traffic enforcers, or your insurance company (and you understand what you’re signing).
   • Do NOT agree to pay for damages yourself or accept cash at the scene. Let the insurance companies handle it.
     
     
9. NOTIFY YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY:
   
   
   • Report the accident to your insurance company (or have your parents do so) as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you gathered. At Parkway Insurance Group, we’re here to guide you through the claims process.

After You Leave the Scene:

• If you didn’t seek medical attention at the scene but start to feel pain or discomfort later (even if it seems minor), see a doctor. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent.
• Keep all accident-related documents, photos, and notes organized in one place.

A Word to Parents:

Your guidance is invaluable. Discuss this checklist with your teen before they begin driving. Ensure they have a copy in the glove compartment or saved on their phone. Role-playing different scenarios can also be helpful. Make sure they know who to call and have emergency contact numbers and insurance information readily accessible.

Accidents are unsettling, but being prepared can help your teen manage the situation with greater confidence and safety. We believe in protecting what matters most, and that includes the well-being of our young drivers on the road. If you have any questions about your auto insurance policy or how to prepare your teen driver best, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Parkway Insurance Group.