Teen drivers are likely to be excited about getting their driver’s license and getting behind the wheel. They can feel a sense of independence and freedom, but that independence comes with responsibility. All drivers owe a duty of care to the other vehicles and pedestrians who share the road. In their excitement, a teen driver may forget vital rules and information regarding their safety and the safety of others.
Unfortunately, a distracted or inexperienced teen driver can make a mistake that causes dire consequences. If you or your loved one suffered an accident with a teen driver, you may want to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer for help with your claim.
Understanding the Risks of Teen Driving
Teen driving is a significant concern for parents, guardians, and the community at large. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers in the United States. In 2020, over 2,500 teens aged 13-19 died in car crashes, and many more were injured. The risks associated with teen driving are multifaceted and can be attributed to a combination of factors, including inexperience, immaturity, and reckless behavior.
Inexperience is a major factor contributing to car crashes among teen drivers. Young drivers often lack the skills and judgment needed to navigate complex driving situations. Immaturity can lead to risky behaviors such as speeding, tailgating, and not wearing seat belts. Additionally, peer pressure can influence teens to engage in dangerous driving practices. Understanding these risks is crucial for parents and teens to take proactive steps in promoting safe driving habits.
Motor Vehicle Crashes: A Leading Cause of Death
Motor vehicle crashes are a major public health concern, particularly among teenagers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2022, 3,058 teenagers died in car crashes, accounting for 10% of all traffic fatalities in the United States. Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes due to their inexperience and lack of driving skills. In fact, the CDC states that teen drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers aged 20 and older.
The combination of inexperience and overconfidence can be deadly. Teen drivers may not fully understand the consequences of their actions on the road, leading to poor decision-making. Additionally, the presence of other teen passengers can increase the likelihood of a crash, as it can lead to distractions and risky behavior. By recognizing these factors, parents and teens can work together to mitigate the risks and promote safer driving practices.
5 Topics to Discuss with a Teen Driver
Parents have the responsibility of preparing their young driver for getting behind the wheel. A parent should discuss the following five critical topics with their teen before they start driving:
Obeying Traffic Rules
A teen may observe more experienced drivers who choose not to adhere to certain traffic rules. While another driver may not make a complete stop at a stop sign, the teen should be able to recognize why that places that driver in a dangerous situation. Other rules to which teens should strictly adhere, even though these rules are often ignored by other drivers, include:
- Always using their turn signals
- Leaving enough space between their car and the car in front of them
- Obeying the speed limit
Understanding and obeying traffic rules is essential for maintaining their driver’s license and ensuring their safety on the road.
Parents need to inform their teens that the fact that someone is violating a rule does not automatically make the action permissible. A teen must understand that traffic laws are in place for their protection and the protection of others. Regardless of how many reckless drivers they may see disobeying traffic laws, teens should never mimic the reckless behaviors they observe.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving continues to be one of the leading causes of traffic accidents. A distracted teen driver also suffers from inexperience. While an older driver may respond quickly after a mistake, the teen driver may not have the reflexes or understanding to avoid a collision. A teen driver may be distracted by the following:
- Their phone
- Their friends
- Food and drinks
These distractions are not worth the safety of the teen and those around them. Discussing these distractions with a teen driver can help them understand why that split second of distraction can lead to life-altering events. Distracted driving is a leading cause of teen driver fatalities, making it crucial for teens to stay focused on the road.
Driving under the Influence
While every parent wants to believe their teen understands the danger of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, that is not always the case. It is better to have a conversation about the dangers of driving under the influence than to assume that your teen knows and understands the dangers. Driving under the influence is a significant contributor to teen driver fatalities, underscoring the importance of this conversation.
Passenger Safety
A teen likely will want to have their friends as passengers. With each passenger added to the car, the level of possible distractions increases. For the safety of themselves and their friends, the teen needs to prioritize safe driving. Parents can explain that conversations and gossip can wait until they are safely parked. The teen’s well-being is more important than trying to keep up with the conversations in the back seat. For a young driver, managing the distractions caused by passengers is crucial for maintaining focus and safety on the road.
Car Maintenance
Car maintenance is just as crucial as understanding traffic laws. A car that is not adequately maintained can be dangerous to drive. Some car maintenance tasks to discuss with teens include:
- Changing their oil
- Checking tire pressure
- Make sure the windshield is clean
- Make sure windshield wipers are working properly
Proper car maintenance is part of the responsibility that comes with having a driver’s license.
For their safety, teen drivers should know how their car operates and the maintenance it requires to keep operating. Having a functioning and well-maintained car can help prevent accidents from occurring.
Teen Driver Safety Laws in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has implemented various laws and regulations to promote teen driver safety. The state’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system is designed to gradually introduce young drivers to the responsibilities of driving, while minimizing the risks associated with inexperience. The GDL system consists of three stages: learner’s permit, junior license, and unrestricted license. Each stage has its own set of requirements and restrictions, aimed at ensuring that young drivers develop safe driving habits and gain sufficient experience before obtaining a full driver’s license.
In addition to the GDL system, Pennsylvania has enacted laws to address specific safety concerns, such as distracted driving and nighttime driving. For example, the state’s distracted driving law prohibits drivers from using handheld devices while driving, and the nighttime driving restriction prohibits junior license holders from driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver.
Parents and guardians play a crucial role in promoting teen driver safety. By setting clear expectations, providing guidance and support, and modeling safe driving behavior, parents can help their teens develop the skills and habits necessary to become safe and responsible drivers. Encouraging open communication about the challenges and responsibilities of driving can make a significant difference in a young driver’s journey towards becoming a safe and conscientious driver.
Partner with an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. has a team of skilled car accident lawyers with experience helping clients in Southern Pennsylvania. Our legal team knows that practicing safe driving habits as a teen driver may be the difference between life and death.
Whether the teen driver was at fault or not, a car accident can lead to devastating or fatal results for all victims involved. Partnering with a skilled car accident lawyer after your accident is the best way to ensure a strong claim for your losses. Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. has over sixty-five years of experience helping victims of car accidents pursue damages for their losses. Our legal team is proud to provide our clients with the award-winning legal counsel needed to build a strong accident claim. To schedule a free consultation, you can contact us here or call (215) 822-7575.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
December 25, 2024
