Many Teenage Motorists Pose Serious Threat to Themselves and Others
by
Matthew Willens on Jul. 14, 2015
Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Car Accident Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: Passengers and cell phones are the most common distractions leading to car accidents involving teen drivers.
Teen drivers, due to their inexperience, are at times unable to operate a vehicle safely under different driving scenarios and are more prone to accidents. Every year, thousands of teens are killed in motor vehicle accidents caused by negligence. Teen drivers are known to pose a serious risk to themselves as well as passengers and other drivers on the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, teen drivers are at a 400 times higher risk of getting into an accident compared to other age groups.
In addition to inexperience, distracted driving is a major reason behind a large percentage of teenage injuries and fatalities. Teen drivers are known to text or speak on a cell phone while driving, posing a threat to everyone they are sharing the road with.
Distracted Driving
Traffic authorities have been making efforts to educate teens on the dangers of distracted driving, but distracted driving accidents involving teens is an everyday reality. Statistics show that one in four accidents is caused by the use of electronic devices and distractions caused by texting. Additionally, 9 in 10 young drivers are reported to be distracted while driving.
Overcrowding the Vehicle
Oftentimes, teenagers are seen overcrowding their vehicles with friends. Too many passengers in a vehicle causes distractions and leads to poor vehicle control and bad driving decisions.
Driving Under the Influence
Research has shown that one in ten teenagers drink and drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a large percentage of teens between 15-20 years who were killed in DUI accidents did not follow safe driving practices such as wearing a seatbelt.
Poorly Maintained Vehicles
Teenagers are often seen driving vehicles that are older, poorly maintained, and lack important safety features. The poor state of the vehicle combined with a driver’s inexperience make a perfect recipe for an accident. Parents of teenagers can play a huge role in preventing teen accidents. Educate your young driver about driving risks and safety issues such as wearing a seatbelt, overcorrecting, the dangers of drinking and driving, and overspeeding.
The vehicle injury statistics for teen drivers are high. If you have been injured in a car accident caused by the negligent or reckless conduct of a teenager, contact Willens Law Offices for legal guidance. Call us at (312) 957-4166 for a free consultation.
