Personal Injury Law

Teen Driving Statistics and Safety Rules for Teen Drivers

By Brian F. LaBovick, Esq.

The end of school signals the beginning of summer and the time of the year when many young, inexperienced teenaged drivers will be on the roadways. Whether these minor drivers are heading to their part-time jobs or out for a day of fun in the sun, the number of teen drivers on the roads during the summer months increases significantly. Because of their inexperience and risky behaviors behind the wheel, teen drivers are often the victims of devastating car crashes. Even though teen drivers only represent approximately 7 percent of the driving population, teen drivers account for approximately 14 percent of all traffic-related fatalities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death among teens in the United States.

While teenagers may be inexperienced drivers, this fact does not imply that all teens are unsafe drivers. Teenaged drivers simply need to be more aware of their surroundings and take extra precautions while on the road. Teen drivers should avoid distractions while driving, such as changing the radio, texting while driving, or having too many passengers in the car. Because many accidents involving teens occur at night, teen drivers should safeguard against accidents by paying close attention to all traffic laws, being aware of other drivers, and being free of distractions. Car crashes involving teens not only affect the teens involved in the crash but their families, employers, and society in general. According to studies conducted by the American Automobile Association (AAA), the cost of teen car crashes in 2008 was more than $34 billion for medical bills, property damage, and other related expenses.

In 2003, Florida was ranked number 4 among the 50 states with the worst teen fatal crash rate. In 2008, 4 of the 10 deadliest hotspots for teen fatalities among the 50 largest metro areas were found in Florida. The CDC reports that more than half of all teen car accidents occur on weekends (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), and approximately half of all teen accidents occur between 3pm and midnight. However, teens do not have to become a statistic over the summer months. By using good judgment and making mature decisions, teens can safely enjoy their summer and their time behind the wheel. Teens should make sure they drive the speed limit, do not drink and drive, do not ride with someone that has been drinking, wear their seatbelt at all times, and limit the number of passengers in their vehicle. By following some simple driving rules and safety regulations, teens may save their lives as well as the lives of others.
 

Parents have a talk with your teen about driving safety. Take a look at the following list of suggested topics to include in the conversation:

Suggested Safety  Rules for Teen Drivers - provided by the NHTSA

Alcohol: Absolutely No Alcohol (No exceptions)
Seat belts: Always Buckle Up! - (In Florida, it is the law June 30th)
Cell phone/texting: No talking or texting while driving  (Set an example and use a headset)
Curfew: Have the Car in the Driveway by 10 p.m. (depending upon circumstances)
Passengers: No more than one at all times (this simple rule has saved many lives)
Graduated Drivers License: Follow your state's GDL law
Parental Responsibility: Set your house rules and consequences

Full post as published by LaBovick Injury Law Blog on June 10, 2009 (boomark / email).