Getting a driver’s license as a teen can be one of the most exciting times of their life and is a rite of passage. However, this can be a terrifying time for parents as their children will be operating a dangerous motor vehicle for the first time. There are several different factors that lead to increased likelihood in crashes for teen drivers. It is important for parents of teen drivers to know the common causes for these crashes so they can talk to their child about how to avoid these situations. Anyone involved in a collision with a teen driver should speak with our car accident lawyers for legal guidance.
Distracted driving includes behavior like eating, drinking, texting, applying makeup or smoking while operating a vehicle. 9% of drivers aged 15-20 involved in fatal crashes were driving while distracted. Texting and driving is very common amongst teens, and when they drive with their friends, they are more likely to be distracted.
Teens are not the only age group that speed, but studies show that they are more likely to speed and follow the car in front of them too closely. In 2020, 35% of male drivers and 18% of female drivers involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the incident.
Teens do not engage in drunk driving as much as adults, but when they do, they tend to suffer more severe consequences. In 2021, 19% of fatal crashes among drivers aged 16-17 involved alcohol use.
The difference in crash rate between younger teens and older teens shows that experience is key for safe driving. The crash rate per mile driven is 1.5 times higher for 16-year-olds compared to 18- and 19-year-olds.
Teen drivers are less likely to wear seat belts than older drivers. In accidents occurring in 2021, almost half of teen drivers aged 16-19 were not wearing seat belts.
Due to limited visibility, fatigue, and impairment, the CDC recommends limited nighttime driving, especially for teen drivers. Data shows that in 2021, 42% of fatal crashes among teens aged 13-19 occurred between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Knowing the factors and statistics of common causes for crashes amongst teens is very important as a parent. Talking to your child about the information in this blog could prevent the unthinkable from happening. Call our Personal Injury lawyers if you were injured in a crash – involving a teenager or otherwise – and learn how we could help you get necessary compensation.
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Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law
