What Causes Teenage Car Crashes?

Car accidents are a leading cause of death among teenagers across the United States. Here’s what you need to know about the major causes of teen motor vehicle collisions, and how to get help after your child was hurt in a car crash.

Texting and Driving

Texting and driving is a common type of distracted driving, along with eating or putting on makeup, but it’s arguably the most dangerous. Teens are more likely than adults to have their phones or other smart devices out, taking their eyes, hands, and attention off the wheel.

Lack of Experience

Young drivers are naturally going to have a degree of inexperience behind the wheel, however, this can be fatal. It’s critical for teen drivers to take a class in driver’s ed and to practice driving in comfortable, non-stressful situations.

Drinking and Driving

Florida has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to minors driving under the influence. Teen drivers with a BAC over 0.02% can be arrested and charged with a DUI, while adults can have up to 0.08% BAC before they are charged. Still, teens choose to drink and drive, causing serious accidents.

Having Passengers in the Car

Generally speaking, having passengers in the car who are quiet and don’t distract the driver isn’t a safety concern. When passengers are loud and rowdy though, it can make it difficult for the person behind the wheel to focus. Teens tend to be more excitable than adults, especially when “out on their own,” and if left unchecked, may end up causing an accident.

Reckless Driving

Speeding is a common traffic violation that teens are often guilty of. They may be unfamiliar with the roads or may miss the posted speed limit sign. However, teenagers may engage in reckless driving behaviors, such as excessive speeding or weaving in and out of traffic aggressively, which can cause a serious accident. The faster a vehicle is going at the time of the collision, the greater the chance of critical injury or death, making speeding particularly dangerous for teens.

Was Your Teen Hurt in a Car Crash?

If your child was injured in a motor vehicle collision, don’t wait to reach out to an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer. Your teen may be able to obtain compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, and other damages related to the accident. Frank D. Butler is an experienced car accident attorney who can help. Call now for your consultation at 800-253-2531.