Teen driving safety needs to be a top priority in Asheville and across the country. Car crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers. Thankfully, most car accidents are totally preventable. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a variety of great tips for parents and teens, including safety guidelines, “5 to Drive” rules and educational content. Talking to teens about their risk factors behind the wheel and how to avoid preventable accidents is a great place to start.
Teen Driving Facts
- In 2011, about 2,650 teens, between the ages of 16 and 19, were killed in car crashes.
- Nearly 292,000 teens were treated in emergency rooms from car crashes in 2011.
- Teen drivers are nearly three times more likely than drivers aged 20 and older to be in a fatal crash.
- When compared with other age groups, teens have the lowest rate of seat belt use.
Teen Driving Risk Factors
In addition to inexperience behind the wheel, teen drivers face a variety of risk factors behind the wheel. For example, the presence of teen passengers increases the crash risk of unsupervised teen drivers. This risk actually increases with the number of teen passengers. The NHTSA has a Five Rules to Drive campaign aimed at raising awareness about risk factors for teen drivers. They encourage parents to speak with their teen drivers about the “5 to Drive,” and to hold them accountable with Parent-Teen Driving Contracts.
5 to Drive
1. No Cell phones 2. No Extra Passengers
3. No Speeding 4. No Alcohol
5. Always Buckle Up
After an Accident Involving a Teen Driver
It’s a good idea to speak with a personal injury lawyer after any kind of car accident. Crashes involving teen drivers could have a variety of factors involved. Whether it was a case of texting while driving, speeding or too many teen passengers, your lawyer can stay on top of investigative details.
If you or somebody you love has been injured in a car accident involving a teen driver, contact the skilled team at Davis Law Group, P.A. at 866-397-2897 for a free consultation today.