As a parent of a teen driver, it's important to educate your son or daughter about potential future automobile accidents. While no parent wants to think about their offspring getting into an accident, the reality is that accidents do happen. By talking to teens about what to do before, during, and after car accidents, they will be more prepared and know what to do if an unfortunate accident ever happens.

To this end, here's some auto accident attorney advice for educating your teen drivers about accidents.

Before There's an Accident

The sad truth is that many auto accidents could have been avoided if the driver had taken different actions just prior to the event. For example, by not talking on the phone or texting, the driver could have been more alert to their surroundings and avoided a crash. Or, by not eating while driving, the driver wouldn't have dropped their hamburger on the floor of the car and bent over to quickly grab it.

It's important to speak to your teens about distracted driving. While not texting and driving is talked about frequently in the news media, they often don't talk about people being distracted by cigarettes, loud music, and food and these things are just as bad.

During an Automobile Accident

If your teen is involved in a car accident, their adrenaline will be running and this can make it hard to think clearly. With some prior education, they will have some fundamental knowledge to draw upon to help themselves.

During an accident, it's important to protect people over material possessions. If your teen has the option of turning the wheel and totaling the car to avoid impact with another vehicle or person, then this is what they should do. 

After an Accident Happens 

When the accident is over, your teen should immediately place a call to 911 and ask for emergency assistance. They should only exit their car if it is safe to do so. And, if they are physically able, then your teen should check on others and render medical assistance where appropriate.

Since apologizing can be seen as an admission of guilt, your teen should avoid apologizing to the other driver or their passengers. There will be plenty of time for that later if it is necessary.

Finally, it's vitally important your teen understands they should never admit to causing an accident even if they believe they are to blame. Figuring out who is at fault is the job of law enforcement and courts. For more information, contact a local auto accident attorney.

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