One of the top reasons for teen deaths in the U.S. is fatal car accidents. These accidents are more likely to affect teens than many other drivers due to the fact that there are risk factors related to teens on our roads. When a teen is involved in a car accident or someone you know is injured in a teen driving accident, it can leave those involved with a variety of questions. It is important that individuals understand what causes most teen-related accidents so that they can be prevented.

Reasons for Teen Driver Accidents 

Inexperience: When somebody has not been utilizing our roads for long, they are more likely to become involved in a serious driving accident. Teens do not have enough time on our roads, which means that they might not recognize a variety of dangerous situations like other drivers do. After a teen obtains their license, they are most likely to become involved in a crash within the first few months because they do not have these years of experience like other drivers who share our roads. This is why it is important that teens pay close attention to the roads around them so that they can gain the experience they need. 

Distracted Driving: In 2018 alone, over 2,841 people lose their lives in distracted driving accidents. Teen drivers are much more likely to engage in distracted driving than other drivers. Some of the most common types of distracted driving acts committed by teens include using a phone, eating, turning the radio dials, and talking with passengers. When a teen driver is not fully focused on the roads, an accident could occur in the blink of an eye.

Drunk Driving: Florida drunk driving accidents are far more likely to take place involving teen drivers. Teen drivers sometimes engage in dangerous behaviors and are typically more willing to get behind the wheel of a car while intoxicated.   

Reckless Driving: Statistics show that young drivers are more likely to engage in reckless driving such as speeding. Male teenagers, in fact, are at a high risk of being involved in a fatal reckless driving accident. There are many types of reckless driving acts including illegal turns, tailgating, and street racing.   

Texting and Driving: Teenagers are more likely to engage in texting and driving as well. Almost 80% of teenagers in America own a cell phone, which means that a large percentage of teens will engage in this reckless behavior. Teens must learn to put down the phone when they are supposed to be paying attention to the roads around them.

If You Have Been Injured in a Teen Driving Accident

Teens may struggle on the roads for some time after they first obtain their licenses. They might not be familiar with all of the rules of the road until they have gained some experience. It is important that those who suffer from a Florida car accident have the help of a personal injury attorney on their side. At Sheftall & Associates, our accident attorneys are dedicated to helping you achieve results in your accident claim. Please do not hesitate to contact an accident attorney in Florida at (904) 569-6025 for more information on your options.