Understanding the Common Causes of Teen Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2,042 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving teen drivers in 2019. While it’s logical to assume that driver inexperience is one of the main factors in teen car crashes, other causes can put teens at risk. Here’s what you need to know.
Top Risk Factors for Teen Crashes
When it comes to protecting teen drivers from being involved in a car accident, it’s critical to know the causes so they can stay prepared and be proactive in their safety. In addition to inexperience, here are the top risks associated with teen driver vehicle crashes:
- Driving at night or on weekends. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2019, 40% of teen crash deaths occurred between 9 pm and 6 am, and 52% of crashes occurred on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
- Failing to use seatbelts. The CDC also reports that teens have a lower rate of seat belt use. 43.1% of high school students did not use seat belts when riding in a car driven by someone else.
- Cell phone use. Carsurance reports that in 2020, 21% of teen drivers involved in a car accident were distracted by cell phones (texting/talking while driving).
- Speeding. According to the NHTSA, speeding was a factor in 27% of fatal crashes that involved teen drivers in 2019.
- Alcohol use. DriveSafely.Net reports that 1 in 10 high school-age teens drink and drive, and every 15 minutes, a teenager will die due to drunk driving. Alarmingly, 60% of all teen deaths are due to car crashes that involve alcohol.
The best way for teens to avoid a car crash is to practice defensive driving, avoid distractions when behind the wheel and never drink and drive.
Injured in a Car Accident? Contact Meyerkord & Kurth
Being involved in a motor vehicle crash can mean sustaining severe catastrophic injuries resulting in long-term devastating consequences. Not only can a car crash pose physical and mental challenges, but many victims also face financial stress due to large medical bills and other costs for treatments and therapies.
When it comes to car accident claims, our team of experienced attorneys is here to protect your rights and fight the insurance companies on your behalf so you can receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to. Let us be your advocates in supporting you through a difficult time.
Contact Meyerkord & Kurthtoday at (800) 391-4318 to learn more about filing a car accident claim.