Watching a teen driver head off in a car alone for the first time can be frightening for parents.
Car accidents are the leading cause of death for 16 to 19 year olds, despite every effort to ensure their safety. They also have the highest accident rate than any other age group. This is frightening for parents, as they see their youngsters head off in a car alone for the first time. If your teen is involved in a car crash, it is advisable to consult with a St. Louis car accident attorney immediately, to assist you with the insurance company and filing any claims for damages.
Causes of Teen Accidents
Despite comprehensive driver educations programs and strict laws concerning teen drivers and their restrictions, the incidence of car accidents continues to rise. This can be attributed to:
- Risk taking, such as speeding, passing, tailgating, running red lights and stop signs, and making illegal turns. Teenagers are still testing their boundaries and for some that transfers over to the way in which they drive.
- Inexperience is also a leading factor when it comes to teen car accidents. After years of driving, adults gain valuable experience. Teenagers have not yet built up the experience that is sometimes necessary to avoid a car accident.
- Distracted driving is fast becoming a leading cause of accidents involving teenagers. Cell phones and text messaging are extremely dangerous activities that young drivers engage in, in addition to other passengers in the car. Evidence shows that the more passengers there are inside of a teenager’s vehicle, the more likely that they will be involved in a crash.
- Drinking and driving is also rampant among teen drivers, who may not fully understand the risk.
What Can a Parent Do to Help Keep their Teen Driver Safe?
A parent should have open and frank discussions about the responsibility that comes with driving. Cover the following points:
- Always wear a seat belt and insist that any passengers do the same. Practice what you preach by always wearing your seat belt when driving.
- Show them how to check and adjust mirrors each time they enter the car.
- Make sure that they know where important controls like the windshield wipers and headlights are by touch.
- Teach them to continually check their mirrors when driving.
- Show them how to position their hands on the steering wheel and stress how important it is to always have both hands on at all times.
- Make sure that they are using their turn signals, even when changing lanes.
- Talk to them about the risks of driving while under the influence and make sure that they understand that they can always rely on you to come and get them if they are not in a position to drive.
St. Louis Automobile Accident Attorney
Their very age puts teens at a greater risk than any other driver for getting involved in a car accident. If your teen driver is involved in a car accident, contact a St. Louis car accident attorney from The Hoffmann Law Firm, L.L.C. to look over the details of the case and help you understand your legal options.