Many teenagers in the United States believe that they are invincible and impervious to the tragedies of life. A minor on the cusp of adulthood typically does not comprehend the reality that life is fragile and can be changed in an instant. Due to this popular belief, teen drivers are often not as careful on the road as adults.
In fact, car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the nation. According to a 2015 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 2,333 teens ages 16-19 were killed. 221,313 were treated in emergency rooms for injuries sustained in motor vehicle collisions in 2014.
Common Reasons Why Teen Drivers Cause Car Collisions
When a teenager gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, there are a variety of common factors which result in crashes. Inexperience plays a significant role in accidents involving teenagers, especially since they are more than likely to make mistakes such as driving over the speed limit, following other drivers too closely, and underestimating dangerous situations.
The following are the common causes of crashes by teen drivers:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving while intoxicated
- Driver inexperience
- Fatigue driving
- Nighttime driving
The vast majority of crashes involving teen drivers are a result of inattentive driving. Motorists under 20 years of age are often more easily distracted by passengers, more likely to use a cellphone while driving, and more likely to ignore using a seat belt.
If you or a loved one has been struck by a teenage driver in a car accident and suffered serious injuries, Anthony Urban Law Offices, P.C. can help. With more than 60 years of experience, our Schuylkill County personal injury attorney can investigate your accident, gather and analyze evidence at the scene, negotiate with insurance adjusters, and help you obtain the best results possible.
Contact us and discuss your legal options today.