In the United States, one out of three teen fatalities is caused by a car accident.
According to data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teen drivers in the age group of 16-19 years are more likely to get involved in a car accident compared to older drivers. As many as 3,000 teenagers get killed in motor vehicle accidents every year. On average, 8 teenagers are killed every day in a motor vehicle crash.
However, there are some encouraging statistics too. A Youth Risk behavior survey conducted in 2011 suggested that teenagers now drive more safely than they did 10 years ago. This does not, however, mean teen safety measures are no longer necessary. We are still a long way from reaching a point where accidents involving teenagers have been reduced to a minimum.
In order to reduce the number of car accidents caused by teenage drivers, it is important that parents are aware of the hazards that lead to many teen accidents, so they can educate their children on safe driving habits. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have listed 8 danger zones that are leading causes of teen accidents. Parents should familiarize themselves with these 8 danger zones so that they can help their kids avoid them:
1. Driver Inexperience
New drivers are more likely to get involved in a fatal car accident compared to experienced drivers. It is suggested that a teen driver should go through at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice over a period of 6 months.
2. Nighttime Driving
The chances of a car accident are higher when it is dark out. It has been suggested that, as a parent, you make sure your child is not driving after 9 or 10 pm for the first 6 months they have their license.
3. Driving with Teenage Passengers
Research suggests that the more teenagers there are in a car with a teen driver, the higher the risk of a car accident.
4. Not Wearing Seatbelts
Parents should ensure that they educate their teens on the importance of buckling up properly.
5. Reckless Driving
Teens may tend to drive too fast for the conditions, underestimating hazardous situations. So, parents should educate their teen on how to avoid tailgating and speeding.
6. Drowsy Driving
Sleepiness can increase the risk of accidents in teens. Parents should ensure that teens get at least 9 hours of sleep before they get behind the wheel.
7. Distracted Driving
Texting, emailing, and other distractions are a leading cause of teen accidents.
8. Driving Under Influence (DUI)
Drinking and driving are extremely dangerous. Even a single drink can impair their ability considerably and land them in harm’s way.
Car Accident Attorneys
Establishing safe driving habits early on is very important. And while it may decrease the chances of being involved in a car accident, accidents due to the negligence of another driver are still possible. If you have been involved in an accident that resulted from the negligence of another driver, contact a St. Louis car accident attorney at The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. We can evaluate your claim for free and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Call (314) 361-4242 or fill out our Online Contact Form.
photo credit: State Farm via Flickr