Letting your teenager loose on the roads is a frightening experience for every parent. Young drivers are responsible for more than their fair share of accidents; at least 1 in 5 teens will cause an auto accident in their first year of driving. About a quarter of a million young people seek emergency treatment for their car accident-related injuries every year. Sadly, car accidents are the leading cause of death of teenagers in the United States. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates teenagers are 20 times more likely to die in a car accident than an adult. Fortunately, most auto accidents caused by teen drivers are preventable. Learn the causes of teen driving accidents so you can empower your teen to take responsibility for her own safety.
Speeding
Speeding is perhaps the biggest threat to young people’s safety on the road. More than one-third of fatal car accidents involving teenagers are speed-related. High speed car accidents are more likely to involve young males than females. Help your teen understand these risks while instilling a sense of personal responsibility.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving has long been a problem for young people and adults alike, but the prevalence of cell phones with texting and internet capability has made this threat more common than ever. About 75% of people report using their smartphones while driving. Of course, you should talk to your kids about the dangers of texting and driving, but the best way to instill good habits in your teenager is to model good behavior.
Seatbelt Use
About 75,000 people age 16-20 are injured or killed every year because they were not wearing their seatbelts. Public safety promotions, including “click it or ticket” campaigns, have helped encourage seatbelt use in drivers across all age groups. However, the most effective way to establish good seatbelt habits in your teen is to practice them yourself.
Nighttime Driving
The risk of a fatal car accident is three times higher after dark. Although this risk is not teen-specific, teenagers are already at an increased risk for fatal accidents. Teens are also more likely to engage in drunk driving and other impaired driving behaviors late at night. As an extra safety precaution, consider setting a curfew or limiting a teenager’s driving privileges at night. Some parents also promise their kids a “free pass” to encourage them to call home, rather than accepting a ride or operating a vehicle when alcohol or drug use is involved.
What to Do If Your Teen Is Injured in a Car Accident
If your teenager has been injured in a car accident, it is best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Even if she was partially at fault for the accident, she may be entitled to receive compensation for her injuries. The personal injury attorneys at Derek L. Hall PC, The Heavy Hitter have decades of experience helping car accident victims in Mississippi. Contact our office in Jackson, Mississippi to request a free consultation.
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