Teen Drivers: Known the Risks
Personal Injury Lawyer
For most parents, helping their teenager get a driver’s license is a major rite of passage. The ability to drive themselves places eliminates the need for mom and dad to act as chauffeur and opens doors for jobs, school-related events, and other opportunities. However, simply passing their exam does not guarantee that your son or daughter will be a safe driver. Teens face significant risks for car accidents and injuries. Particularly during the spring and summer months, when more teens are likely to be on the roads, it is important to discuss with them the dangers they could face.
Teen Car Accidents
While teenagers may be legally licensed to operate a motor vehicle, they generally lack the experience and maturity that older drivers possess. As a result, their risks for car accidents and injuries is significantly higher. According to multiple studies, teens are three times more likely to be involved in a crash or collision than drivers in other age groups. Among the various factors that contribute to teen car accidents include:
- Inability to detect common hazards: As a result of their age and inexperience, they are more likely to ignore common hazards such as heavy traffic, adverse weather, and dangerous road conditions.
- Poor judgment: A lack of judgment and foresight in considering the consequences of their actions can cause them to engage in dangerous driving behaviors. This includes racing other vehicles, a common problem in San Jose.
- Increased risk of distraction: Teenagers are easily distracted by the outside environment (other cars and scenery) as well as things going on in the vehicle. Talking on cell phones, taking photos, changing radio stations, and even talking to other passengers all increase car accident risks.
- Lack of skill: Due to their lack of experience behind the wheel, teens do not always respond properly to emergency situations. Sudden stops, sharp turns in the road, and unexpected events can all present significant dangers.
Teaching Teens to Be Responsible Drivers
Aside from inexperience, reckless driving behaviors are a major contributing factor in the majority of teen car accidents. Among the most common violations include:
- Speeding and going too fast for conditions
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Tailgating or following too closely
- Improper passing
- Disregarding traffic signs and signals
One of the biggest risks for teen drivers involves the use of alcohol or drugs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), teens are nearly 20 times more likely to be involved in car accidents when under the influence. Impaired driving endangers them and also puts the lives of others on the road in jeopardy.
Contact Our Car Accident Attorneys Today for Help
When car accidents leave you or those you love with serious injuries, you may need legal help to get the compensation you need to recover. Call a personal injury attorney in Ewing, NJ and request a free consultation to discuss how we can assist you.
Thanks to Davis & Brusca, LLC for their insight into personal injury law.