North Dakota had the highest percentage of fatal large truck crashes in 2022, at 23%, but Texas recorded the most deaths – 810 people died in truck accidents in the Lone Star State. In 2023, 1 person was killed every two hours and 3 minutes, 443 fatal injury crashes involved truck tractors or semi-trailers, while three incidents involved fire trucks.
Being in a truck accident is never fun, especially for young children, as car passengers are the most likely to suffer an injury in a truck crash. As a parent, you play a critical role in helping your child process the experience and cope with any emotional aftereffects.
Roderick C. Lopez, an experienced Laredo Truck Accident Attorney, shares some tips on supporting your kids after a truck collision.
After a Truck Accident, Listen to them and Provide Reassurance.
In the aftermath of a truck accident, your child may feel shocked, scared, or confused. In one study, 5% of adolescents had PTSD, with 1.5% of them severely impaired.
Ensure your child is safe now and the danger has passed. Let them know it’s normal to feel upset or afraid after something scary happens. Avoid minimizing their feelings or telling them not to worry. Instead, listen compassionately while allowing them to express their emotions. Reflect on what you hear them say to show you understand. This validation will help them feel heard and begin to calm down.
Allow Your Children To Ask Questions After The Truck Accident
Children often have many questions after a traumatic event. While you may want to shield them from frightening details, answering their questions simply and honestly is helpful. Provide age-appropriate explanations without overwhelming them. For example, a young child can comprehend, “The trucks bumped into each other and got damaged, but the doctors checked you out and said you’re okay.” However, avoid graphic details that could further distress them. Let their questions guide how much information to provide.
If Possible, Try to Maintain Routines and Structure After Being Involved in a Truck Accident
Sticking to regular routines provides comfort and security after an unsettling experience. Keep your child’s schedule consistent, including school, meals, bedtime, activities, and family time. Kids find routine reassuring when life feels chaotic. Providing structured days with familiar patterns lets them know that much of their world remains unchanged despite the truck accident.
Encourage Your Kids To Express Feelings After a Traumatic Truck Accident
Younger children often process upsetting events through play and pretend scenarios. Allowing them to express themselves through drawings, stories, dolls, or toys can help them relieve stress. They may want to re-enact part of the 18-wheeler accident to understand what happened. Supervise their play and offer gentle guidance if they become preoccupied with traumatic content. Creative expression gives them an outlet to work through fears or confusion.
After a Truck Accident, Get Support From Counselors If Needed
Some children may develop lingering anxiety, depression, sleep issues, or other symptoms after a highly disturbing truck accident. Seek support from school counselors, therapists, or pediatric psychologists if your child struggles with adjustment over time. An experienced child mental health professional can help assess if post-traumatic stress is present and teach healthy coping strategies. 3-15% of girls develop PTSD after a traumatic event, while 1-6% of boys are similarly affected.
Early intervention can help prevent long-term emotional trauma, but it’s essential to speak with a truck accident lawyer to secure compensation for your trauma.
With patience and compassion, you can help your child navigate the strong emotions that emerge after an 18-wheeler accident. Keep communication open while providing a stable environment, and don’t hesitate to seek counseling if distress persists. With your support, they can process the experience, regain their sense of safety, and heal.
