How to talk to your child
about being in a car accident

Helping Kids Feel Safe, Seen, and Supported

After a car accident, one of the hardest things for any parent is seeing their child scared, hurt, or confused. You may be wondering:
What should I say? How much do they need to know? Am I saying the wrong thing?

Jess understands and is here to help.

At the Jessica Corley Law Firm, we know that emotional recovery is just as important as physical healing. This informational guide was made for parents like you—who want to comfort their child, rebuild trust, and move forward together.

Start With Safety and Reassurance

No matter their age, children need to know they are safe now. That’s the most important message you can give.

💬 What to say:

“You’re safe now. We’re taking care of everything.”
“The accident is over, and we’re going to get the help we need.”

Stick to calm, simple words. Be honest, but don’t overload them with scary details.

Let Them Share on Their Own Time

Every child processes trauma differently. Some will ask a million questions right away. Others may act like nothing happened.

That’s okay.

🧠 Tips:

• Give them time. Healing doesn’t happen overnight.

• Use gentle check-ins like:

  “How are you feeling about the accident today?”
  “Do you have any questions or thoughts?”

Let them know it’s okay to be upset, quiet, angry, or confused.

Speak to Their Age and Understanding

🧸 Toddlers & Preschoolers:

Keep it very simple. Use clear words and comforting routines.

“We had a car boo-boo. Now we’re going to the doctor, and everything will be okay.”

🎒 Elementary Kids:

Explain what happened in a calm, direct way. Let them know it wasn’t their fault.

“Another car hit ours. The grown-ups are taking care of it, and you’re safe.”

📱 Teens:

Be honest and open. They may want more facts and may even feel responsible.

“The crash was scary, but we’re handling it. You can talk to me about anything.”

Help Them Feel In Control Again

After an accident, kids often feel powerless. Small choices can help them regain a sense of control.

✅ Let them choose:

• What toy or book to bring to a doctor’s visit

• A comfy outfit for the day

• Who they’d like to talk to about what happened

When to Get Extra Support

If your child is having nightmares, avoiding cars, acting out, or becoming withdrawn—it might be time to talk to a child therapist. We can connect you with trusted mental health professionals who specialize in trauma recovery.

You’re Already Doing So Much

Just by reading this, you’re showing how much you care. You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to show up with love and patience—and let your child know they’re not alone.

At the Jessica Corley Law Firm, we’re here to support the whole family, not just the case.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Need Legal Help or Emotional Support Resources?

We’ll help you:

• Navigate medical and legal options for your child

• Connect with counselors or pediatric trauma experts

• Fight for the care and compensation your family deserves