Summer should be a fun time for teenagers. Unfortunately, it’s one of the most dangerous times of the year for younger drivers and everyone else on the road. This is why traffic safety organizations have designated the time period between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Deadliest Days.”
Why teen driving accidents happen
Some of the reasons why drivers 16 to 19 years old cause so many car accidents during the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” include:
- More free time – Most teenagers have more free time during the summer. Because they’re often not attending classes in high school or college during this time, there are more teen drivers on the road – and many of these young drivers cause collisions.
- Lack of experience – Teen drivers are just learning how to drive. Because of their lack of experience, younger drivers don’t know how to handle situations that often come up while driving a car. Specifically, they often misjudge distances when passing or stopping.
- Poor risk assessment – Lack of experience isn’t the only reason why many teen drivers cause collisions. Younger drivers also don’t accurately assess the risks they face on the road. They often drive too fast, run red lights, or take other unnecessary risks.
- Easily distracted – Distracted driving is a common cause of collisions involving teen drivers. But it’s not just cellphones that divert younger drivers’ attention away from the road. Having other teens in the vehicle can be just as distracting to teen drivers.
- Drinking and driving – Even though teenagers are not old enough to legally drink alcohol, many young drivers cause drunk driving accidents, especially during the summer months when many teenagers are partying with their friends.
- Not wearing a seatbelt – Teen drivers and younger passengers have some of the lowest seatbelt usage rates of any age group in the country. As a result, many younger drivers and teen passengers sustain injuries in car crashes due to not wearing a seatbelt.
Safety tips for teen drivers
So, what can younger drivers do to prevent causing a car accident during the 100 Deadliest Days? Some of the suggested safety tips include:
Keep a safe distance
When passing another vehicle, making a turn at an intersection, or driving on a city street or highway, teen drivers should always leave a safe distance between their vehicle and other cars on the road.
Use turn signals
When turning at an intersection or changing lanes on a highway, teen drivers should always signal which direction they are going. That way, other drivers on the road know where the other car is going.
Obey the speed limit
Speed limits exist for a reason. When drivers go too fast, they don’t have time to slow down to avoid a collision. High-speed accidents are also more serious accidents. This is why teen drivers should drive slower and not speed.
Pay close attention
Driving can be very complicated and confusing. Younger drivers should focus exclusively on driving. This means turning down the radio, turning off their cell phone, and limiting conversations while driving, especially in heavy traffic.
Don’t drink and drive
Drinking and driving is against the law for a reason. Drunk drivers have slower reaction times and often take unnecessary risks. There’s nothing cool about drinking and driving. It’s dangerous, and it’s illegal.
Wear your seatbelt
Seatbelts save lives. Younger drivers should get in the habit of always wearing their seatbelts whenever they get into a car. When young drivers don’t wear seatbelts, they put their own personal safety at risk.
How a car accident lawyer can help if you've been injured
You may be eligible for financial compensation if you or a loved one has been injured in an accident that was someone else's fault. An experienced car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected.
A lawyer will evaluate your case, gather evidence, and determine its strength. They will handle all communication with insurance companies and other parties involved, ensuring nothing is said that could harm your case. By collecting and preserving crucial evidence, such as medical records and accident reports, your attorney will build a strong case on your behalf.
Many car accident cases are settled out of court, and your lawyer will advocate for a fair settlement that covers the full cost of your medical expenses (current and future), lost wages, and other damages. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, they can represent you in court, presenting your case and arguing on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve.
To see how our law firm can help with your potential legal case, contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. We handle car accident claims in Walnut Creek, Antioch, and throughout the Bay Area.
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