While summer can be a time for fun and celebration, we are entering the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” which runs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. It's important not to let our guard down when it comes to driving safety this time of year, especially for our teens. That's because car accidents are one of the top causes of teen deaths in the United States, and the statistics are alarming.
Teen car accident statistics
- Teens aged 16 to 19 have a much higher rate of car accidents than drivers from other age groups.
- About 60% of crashes involving teens are linked to distracted driving.
- Passengers are a leading distraction for teen drivers and cause 15% of crashes, compared to 12% of crashes linked to cellphone use.
- In 2020, there were about 8 teen deaths and hundreds of injuries each day across the U.S. due to car accidents.
- About 44% of teen traffic fatalities occurred between 9 PM and 6 AM.
- 50% occurred on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays in 2020.
- About 56% of teens killed in car accidents in 2020 neglected to wear seatbelts.
How do most teen driver car accidents happen?
Most teen driver car accidents occur due to a combination of inexperience, risk-taking behavior, and distractions. Here are the primary factors contributing to these accidents:
- Distracted Driving: Teen drivers often engage in texting, talking, or using apps while driving, which takes their attention off the road and increases the risk of accidents.
- Speeding: Many teens underestimate the dangers of speeding. Driving at high speeds reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
- Lack of Experience: Inexperience leads to poor judgment in complex driving scenarios. Teens may struggle with tasks such as merging onto highways or navigating through heavy traffic.
- Driving Under the Influence: Some teens drive under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, impairing their ability to make sound decisions and react appropriately to road conditions.
- Not Wearing Seatbelts: Failing to wear seatbelts is common among teen drivers and passengers, significantly increasing the risk of injury or death in the event of an accident.
- Tailgating: Teenagers frequently follow other vehicles too closely, which reduces the time they have to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic flow.
- Fatigue: Lack of sleep and fatigue are common issues for teens, affecting their concentration, reaction times, and overall driving performance.
- Risk-Taking Behavior: Teens often overestimate their driving skills and take unnecessary risks, such as aggressive driving maneuvers, which can lead to accidents.
How can parents keep their teens safe during the '100 Deadliest Days of Summer?'
While teen drivers should be vigilant on the road, parents can play an important role in keeping teens safe during the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer." Here's how:
- Avoid serving alcohol or drugs at parties.
- Lead by example by practicing safe driving habits in your child's presence.
- Encourage open communication if your teen finds themselves in a risky driving situation.
- Spend time practicing driving with your teen.
- Teach your teen to use Focus or Do Not Disturb features on their phone while driving.
- Ask your teen to keep you updated on their whereabouts and plans.
- Encourage your teen to refuse rides from friends who are impaired or distracted.
- Motivate your teen to commit to safe driving practices and intervene when necessary.
- Discuss basic safety laws and emergency procedures.
Talk to a car accident lawyer if you were injured in a crash
Teen car accidents often result from inexperience, distractions, and risk-taking behaviors, highlighting the importance of safe driving. Unfortunately, accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of age. If you were involved in a car accident in Arizona, it can change your life in an instant, leaving you or a loved one with serious injuries that may impact your life for months or even years. If a negligent driver caused your car accident, you deserve financial compensation for your injuries.
However, dealing with insurance companies can be complicated and frustrating. That's why you need the help of an experienced attorney at Browne Law Group.
Our law firm understands how a car accident injury can affect you and your family. That's why we take a no-nonsense, no-B.S. approach to car accident cases to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve. For example, among our successful settlements and verdicts, we secured $2,000,000 for a client involved in a motor vehicle accident.
To see how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us today for a free consultation. We can outline the next steps in your case and answer any questions you have, no matter how complex. Our office is located in Gilbert, AZ, and we proudly serve clients throughout Maricopa County, including Phoenix.
“Byron and his team are very attentive and caring. Excellent customer service. They go above and beyond to fight for you and get the job done.” — Former client.