If you have been involved in a car accident on your own, this can be a harrowing experience. You may be concerned about the injuries you have sustained, your medical bills and the damage to your vehicle among other things.

However, the shock and adrenaline coursing through your system can be even more overwhelming if you have been involved in a car accident with your children. Particularly in situations in which another individual is responsible for the damage sustained to your car as well as any injuries for you and the passengers inside the vehicle, it is tempting to become extremely angry.

Remember, the more you can try to stay calm at the scene of the accident the easier it will be for your children to avoid becoming panicked in this situation.

A car accident can be overwhelming for children, particularly for those who are going through such an incident for the first time. Some of the steps that you can take to minimize fear and concern at the accident while also remaining as calm as possible include:

  •    Speaking slowly
  •    Reassuring your children that everything is going to be okay
  •    Calming upset children by telling them that they need to focus on listening to the sound of your voice at this time
  •    Giving them clear and explicit instructions such as “stay in your seat” or “stand right there”
  •    Giving them a hug so long as there’s no indication of serious physical injuries

If as an adult you can show your children that you’re remaining calm in this situation and attempting to restore order and get everyone help as quickly as possible, your children are more likely to approach the situation with less panic and fear. It is natural for children to respond to a car accident by being scared and by asking questions. Your best efforts to keep them under control in this situation can make things easier for everyone involved.