Los Angeles, Nov 11 (IANS): Actor-comedian Kevin Hart looked healthy as he took the stage at this year's People's Choice Awards to pick up an award, and said that he appreciates life more after the horrific car accident.

The comedian, who is still recovering from the car crash that left him hospitalised in September, made his first official public appearance at the star-studded show, where he took home the award for Favorite Comedy Act, reports etonline.com.

Hart was greeted with a standing ovation when he stepped out onto stage to accept the trophy, and shared an emotional speech.

"First and foremost, I thank God, because I definitely don't have to be here. Being that I am, that makes me appreciate life even more," Hart said.

"It makes me appreciate the things that really matter. Family. I want to thank my wife, my kids. They really stepped up to the plate for me," he added.

Hart also thanked the public and his fans for making his dream a reality.

"You have no idea the effect that you have on us as entertainers. Your energy, your support, it means the world and I want to thank you guys for being there for me in my difficult time. This is special," he said.

Hart was in the passenger seat when he was involved in a car crash in his 1970 Plymouth Barracuda here September 1. He fractured his spine in three places and had to undergo major surgery. He was released 10 days after the crash.