As the school year ends, teenagers in Texas and Oklahoma look forward to the freedom of summer. For many, this means hitting the road with friends for the first time as newly licensed or inexperienced drivers. However, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer," is particularly dangerous for teen drivers. During this time, teens are at a higher risk of getting injured in car accidents. However, with proper education and awareness, parents can help ensure their teens arrive safely at their destinations.
What is the biggest cause of teen car accidents?
For teens ages 15-18, it's crucial to understand that car crashes are one of the leading causes of death in that age group. The primary factors contributing to these fatalities include:
Distractions
Drivers of all ages are susceptible to distracted driving, but teens are particularly vulnerable to diverting their attention from the road and losing control of their vehicles. Cell phones pose a significant distraction for young drivers, whether texting, calling, taking photos/videos, or engaging in social media. Additionally, passengers, especially teenage friends, can disrupt the driver's concentration. In-car entertainment systems, such as adjusting the radio or using GPS, further contribute to distractions. These activities greatly diminish a teen driver's capacity to respond promptly to changing road conditions and drive safely overall.
Speeding
As new drivers, teens frequently succumb to the temptation of driving faster than what is safe, often underestimating the inherent dangers of high speeds. Their limited experience makes it difficult for them to identify and react appropriately to hazardous situations. Peer pressure further compounds this issue, with friends sometimes urging speeding to reach destinations quickly or for the excitement they think it brings. Speeding constitutes reckless driving behavior that significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.
Inexperience
Inexperience is a frequent cause of accidents among teen drivers. New drivers often find it challenging to gauge distances and the speed of other vehicles accurately, which can lead to critical errors. Moreover, they may lack the necessary skills to handle emergencies effectively, increasing the likelihood of accidents in unforeseen situations. A specific concern is neglecting to check blind spots, which can result in unsafe lane changes and potential collisions.
Tips for parents with young drivers
By actively engaging in their teen's driving education, parents can significantly influence their teen's driving behavior and help reduce the risk of accidents on the road. Here are some refined tips for parents to share with their teens on safe driving practices:
- Lead by example: Demonstrate distraction-free driving and never drive under the influence. Teens learn safe habits by observing their parents' behavior on the road.
- Offer a safe ride: Encourage your teen to call you if they find themselves in a risky driving situation. Promise to pick them up without interrogation to prevent impaired driving or riding with impaired drivers.
- Practice driving together: Regularly practice driving with your teen, maintaining patience and positivity while emphasizing safe driving techniques. Consider hiring a professional instructor to aid in their learning process.
- Promote safe phone use: Remind your teen never to text while driving and teach them to use Focus or Do Not Disturb modes on their phone.
- Stay informed: Ask your teen to keep you updated on their whereabouts and plans, and encourage them to contact you if their plans change, reducing unnecessary worry.
- Encourage safe choices: Empower your teen to decline rides from friends who are under the influence, distracted, or engaging in risky driving behaviors. Stress the importance of prioritizing safety for themselves and their passengers.
- Discuss road safety: Have regular conversations about speed limits, seatbelt use, basic highway laws, and how to handle emergencies such as a flat tire or safely pulling over.
Get the legal help you deserve after a serious car accident
At Hoover Rogers Law, LLP, we understand the challenges of navigating the legal aftermath of a car crash, regardless of the age of those involved. Whether you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a negligent driver, we are here to guide you through your legal options with your best interests at heart. Our clients are our priority, and we do everything possible to secure the compensation they need and deserve.
For more information on how we can help you, contact us today for a free injury case consultation. Don't delay. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better. Our offices are located in Wichita Falls, TX, and Lawton, OK.
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