It is no secret that teen drivers have the highest crash rate out of any other age group. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drivers aged 16-19 are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers aged 20 and older.
“Teens’ inexperience behind the wheel makes them more susceptible to dangerous driving behaviors – like speeding, distracted driving, and driving while drowsy,” says AAA. “Even young drivers that are prepared and focused carry an increased crash risk due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. That’s why it’s so important for parents to play an active role in guiding their teens toward safe driving behaviors.”
If you’ve been injured in an accident, call 866-730-3508 for a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm.
Reasons Why Teens Have the Highest Crash Rate
Statistics show that for newly licensed teen drivers, inexperience is a major contributor to why teens have the highest crash rate. Teens lack the skills and experience to handle dangerous situations on the road, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), newly licensed drivers (typically at age 16) have the least experience and the highest crash rate among teens. The crash rate per mile driven is 1.5 times as high for 16-year-olds compared to 18- and 19-year-olds.
One of the reasons teens have the highest crash rate is that they are more likely than any other age group to engage in risky behavior behind the wheel. Teens often feel invincible and as such, they can make dangerous decisions when driving such as speeding, tailgating, running red lights, failing to yield to other cars, and more.
This type of behavior increases the likelihood of a car accident, and the consequences can be serious for teen drivers and others involved. If you or someone you know has been injured in a car accident caused by a teen driver, then it’s important to contact a car accident attorney right away. An experienced car accident attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, almost 60 percent of all teen car accidents involve some sort of driver distraction. Additionally, teens aged 15 to 19 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. That’s why parents need to set a good example by not engaging in distracted driving behaviors when they’re behind the wheel. If you’ve been injured in a car crash, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 866-730-3508 for a free consultation. Convenient locations throughout Central Florida.
