Looking for an online support group for fatal crashes? One of the worst things anyone can ever go through is the death of another human being and unfortunately a common incident that leads to the loss of human life is that of a fatal motor vehicle crash. Being in a collision is traumatic for anyone, but even more so if someone dies as a result of it. Victims feel traumatized by such life-changing incidents and during this time of crisis, support is vital.
A New Group Formed
Several victims have reached out to us over the last couple of months seeking support for fatal motor vehicle crashes. After listening to our readers and followers, The Crash Support Network is excited to announce that more support is here for you! We are pleased to introduce our sister support group “Fatal Crash Support” which is an online support group for fatal crashes that victims and loved ones are welcome to join. Crash Support Network understands that it is hard to accept the death of a loved one or a stranger especially when they are taken so suddenly and this group has been created for you to share peer support, advice and resources. If you have been affected by a fatal motor vehicle crash, we welcome you to join us at: Fatal Crash Support Group.
If you are currently supporting a friend or loved one that has been involved in a fatal motor vehicle crash, we understand it is an extremely difficult time so here are some things to keep in mind:
- Listen with compassion if your friend or loved one wants to talk.
- Offer to keep your friend or loved one company if they do not want to be alone and keep in mind that sometimes a quiet presence is very helpful.
- Offer to help with everyday tasks and errands including transportation, childcare, meal preparation, etc.
- Offer to help undertake tasks related to the crash such as contacting the insurance company or finding referrals to psychotherapists, doctors or a lawyer.
- With permission from your friend or loved one, contact his or her employer and friends, neighbours, relatives and if necessary, coordinate support.
- Remind your friend or loved one that you support them and believe in their ability to cope and recover. Remind them of their many strengths and capabilities.
- Ask your friend or family member what they need, and seek their approval before making decisions or taking actions that affect them.
- Seek out a Victim/Witness Assistance Program for your friend or loved one in your area.
- If your friend or loved one appears to be suicidal or in a crisis, go to a local emergency room or call 911.
DO NOT
- Do not push your friend or loved one to talk about the crash if he or she does not want to.
- Do not push your friend or loved one to drive or take other steps that they do not feel ready for, even if you believe such steps would be helpful.
- Do not tell others about the motor vehicle crash without permission from your friend or loved one.
- Do not discuss the motor vehicle crash with others over social media. Keep in mind that your posts could be used in unexpected ways, especially if there is criminal or civil legal action.
- Do not hold back from expressing your love and support.
The death of someone close to us is one of life’s most stressful events. Coping with the changes it brings to our lives is vital to our mental health and there are no stages of grief. Do not let anyone establish stages or timelines for you. Our Fatal Crash Support Group is always here for you.
S. Dawne McKay is a survivor of a horrific crash that changed her life forever. Dawne shares her personal journey as a Crash Survivor Blogger and also collaborates with crash survivors as Guest Bloggers allowing them an opportunity to share their stories. Dawne is also the author of the book, “Talk Crash to Me – What to Expect After Surviving a Collision and How to Manage Your Recovery” which is available for purchase on Amazon.
The Crash Support Network is a unique one-of-a-kind website consisting of an online support group, a crash survivor blog, a quarterly newsletter, “Sharing Our Recovery” as well as highly informative articles. Our website is based on relationship-building and puts the needs of survivors first by creating a helpful resource for victims and survivors of motor vehicle crashes.
