As we eagerly anticipate the joys of summer vacations and fun-filled activities, teen drivers face increased risks on the road during this time of year. In fact, car accidents remain the leading cause of death for teenagers, particularly those between the ages of 16 and 19. It's important for parents and guardians to remain vigilant about the safety of their teenage children, especially during the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer."
Why are crashes the leading cause of death for teen drivers?
Several factors play a significant role in the elevated crash rates among teenage drivers during the summer. These factors include:
Inexperience and lack of driving skills
Teenagers are relatively new to driving and may not have developed the necessary skills and judgment to handle various road situations safely. To address this risk, teen drivers should learn how to:
- Anticipate potential hazards such as other drivers, pedestrians or bicyclists, and inclement weather conditions.
- Make quick decisions to react to sudden stops, merge onto highways, and navigate through busy intersections.
- Handle their vehicle in various conditions, such as rain, snow, and uneven road surfaces.
Parents can help support their teens' driving skills by enrolling them in driver's education classes.
Risk-taking behavior and peer pressure
Adolescents are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as speeding, tailgating, or not wearing seat belts, due to their developmental stage and the influence of their peers. The presence of other teenage passengers can increase the likelihood of risky driving behaviors.
Teen drivers can address this issue by doing the following:
- Setting personal boundaries and sticking to them regardless of peer pressure.
- Choosing passengers who support safe driving practices.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is a major contributor to teen motor vehicle crashes. One of the leading distractions for teen drivers is the presence of other teen passengers, which contributes to 15% of teen car accidents. Additionally, texting and talking on the phone while driving accounts for about 12% of teen driver crashes.
This issue can be prevented by:
- Limiting the number of passengers in the vehicle at the same time.
- Keeping cellphones on "do not disturb mode" and out of reach.
- Planning ahead to avoid adjusting the GPS or in-vehicle entertainment system.
What strategies can parents and guardians use to ensure teen driver safety?
Parents and guardians play an important role in ensuring their teen's safety on the road. Some strategies they can use include:
- Setting clear guidelines for teen drivers, such as always wearing a seat belt, obeying speed limits, and avoiding distractions.
- Monitoring and limiting teen driving during high-risk times, such as between 9 pm and 6 am and on weekends.
- Encouraging the use of seat belts.
- Providing teens with clear, evidence-based information about the risks associated with distracted, impaired, and reckless driving.
- Empowering teens to voice their concerns when they feel unsafe as passengers.
Protect your rights today. Get help from a skilled Indiana car accident lawyer
Whether you're a teen driver or more seasoned on the road, you have the right to seek justice and compensation after a car accident in Indiana. If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash, the attorneys at Glaser & Ebbs can help you every step of the way. We conduct thorough investigations and negotiate with insurance companies to get the best possible outcome for our clients.
Don't let the financial burden of medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle repairs overwhelm you during this challenging time. Contact us online or call one of our Indiana law offices today to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Fort Wayne, Indianapolis, and throughout Indiana, we are ready to stand by your side and fight for your rights.
"The firm handled everything, and I mean EVERYTHING with my lawsuit. I didn't have to lift a finger." — Former client.