Would You Reach Out to an Ex After a Serious Car Accident?

The question of whether to reach out to an ex-partner after a severe car accident that causes harm is a complex one. It involves considerations of personal choice, relationship dynamics, and emotional health.

Context Matters

Whether you feel compelled to reach out to an ex-partner following a significant car accident can depend on the circumstances of the break-up. In some cases, such as in the instance of a family-forming relationship where the ex-partner is now married and has children, the decision may be easier. For example:

"I would not if it was my ex-wife. She’s not a part of my life anymore. I am remarried and have kids, so there is no chance."

Context also plays a role in scenarios where the ex-partner is still in contact. In some relationships, maintaining a cordial connection can be beneficial to mutual well-being. For instance:

"Even though we have been divorced over twenty years now, I would be there as soon as possible. I have visited her in the hospital and she has visited me. Last time she was in the hospital, her husband let me know and filled me in on her condition. The two times I have been in the hospital for surgery, she visited the next day and one time my wife came too and we went out to dinner!"

Serious Circumstances Demand Compassion

For serious injuries following a car accident, empathy and compassion can dictate your actions. Some individuals believe that reaching out to offer support and commiseration is the right thing to do. Considerations such as the severity of the injuries also come into play:

"Yes, I would. The ex-narc was in the hospital in September after a bad car accident. I went to visit him. We have known each other since age 18 and we are 64 and have two children together. I even called his sister, his only family member. After I was assured he was still his grumpy self, I knew he was fine."

Consider the Nature of the Break-Up

The nature of the break-up influences whether you should reach out. In some cases, the ex-partner might still be the wronged party. In other cases, the wronged party might be you. Protections against exploiters and gloaters are necessary:

"It would depend on the circumstances. It would depend on how serious the injuries were. It would depend on who the wronged party in the split-up is. If you harbor wishes to reignite the relationship, exploiting the situation would be creepy—especially if the injuries were minor. Maybe you could send a ‘Get Well’ card. If you feel that you were the wronged party in the split-up, exploiting the situation to gloat would be creepy. If you are prepared to forgive your ex for wrongdoing and show that you are moving on, for you to say so sincerely and briefly would probably be therapeutic for both of you. Probably a card or brief letter or some flowers is best."

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to reach out to an ex-partner after a car accident comes down to personal values and the nature of the relationship. Whether you choose to visit, send a message, or remain distant, doing so with care and consideration can be beneficial for all parties involved. Remember, life is too short to regret past actions, and empathy can go a long way in healing wounds.

Keywords: ex husband, car accident, forgiveness