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.
Introduction to Teen Driving
Earning the privilege to drive is a major milestone for teens, symbolizing newfound independence and responsibility. However, with this freedom comes significant risk—especially for teen drivers, who are statistically more likely to be involved in motor vehicle crashes than any other age group.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), factors such as distracted driving, nighttime driving, and speeding contribute to a higher rate of fatal crashes among teens. As a parent or guardian, it’s crucial to recognize these risks and take proactive steps to encourage safe driving habits.
By emphasizing the importance of supervised driving practice and reinforcing good driving habits from the start, parents can help their teens develop the skills and awareness needed to stay safe on the road. Together, families can work to reduce the risk of crashes and ensure that this exciting chapter begins with a strong foundation in safe driving.
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.
These factors greatly increase a teen’s risk of crashing, as inexperience and distractions make teens more susceptible to accidents.
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. Risky driving, including texting while driving and ignoring traffic laws, significantly increases the dangers faced by new teen drivers.
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.
Obtaining a Driver’s License in Pennsylvania
The journey to becoming a licensed driver in Pennsylvania is designed to help new drivers build experience and confidence while minimizing risk. The state’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system introduces teens to driving in stages, allowing them to gradually take on more complex driving situations. Teens begin by applying for a learner’s permit, which requires passing a written knowledge test and a vision exam.
With a learner’s permit, new drivers must complete a set number of supervised driving hours with a licensed adult, giving them valuable experience behind the wheel. Once these requirements are met, teens can apply for a junior license, which comes with important restrictions—such as limits on nighttime driving and the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle. These rules are in place to help teens focus on safe driving and reduce the risk of crashes as they gain experience. By following the GDL process, new drivers and their families can work together to build safe driving habits that last a lifetime.
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. Increased driving experience helps teens make better decisions and avoid fatal crashes. 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. Emphasizing the importance of making smart decisions can improve safety outcomes for teen drivers. 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. It is important for parents to set ground rules and provide a good example by modeling safe driving habits, such as always wearing a seatbelt and avoiding distractions. Parents should set ground rules before their teens begin driving independently. 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 the rules of the road is essential for maintaining their driver’s license and ensuring their safety on the road. Teens should be aware that failing to follow these rules can result in traffic violations, which may jeopardize their eligibility to keep or obtain a driver’s license.
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 cell phone
- Changing the radio station
- 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. To reduce distractions and lower the risk of a crash, teens should limit passengers, especially during their first months of driving. For their safety 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.
Nighttime Driving: Extra Precautions for Teens
Nighttime driving presents unique challenges for teen drivers, making it one of the riskiest times to be on the road. Reduced visibility, fatigue, and a higher likelihood of encountering impaired drivers all contribute to an increased risk of a fatal crash after dark. In fact, the NHTSA reports that teen drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash at night compared to daytime hours. To address these dangers, Pennsylvania restricts junior license holders from driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed adult or traveling for work or volunteer activities. Teens who must drive at night should take extra precautions: reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid distractions such as cell phones. Staying alert and focused is essential for safe nighttime driving, and following these safety tips can help teens minimize risks and arrive safely at their destination.
Driving in Different Conditions: Weather and Road Challenges
Pennsylvania’s weather can be unpredictable, and teen drivers must be prepared to handle a variety of road conditions safely. Inclement weather—such as rain, snow, or fog—can make driving more hazardous by reducing visibility and increasing stopping distances. To stay safe, teens should always adjust their speed to match road conditions, maintain a greater following distance, and use low gear when driving uphill in snowy or icy situations. Understanding and obeying speed limits and other traffic laws is especially important when navigating complex driving situations. Practicing driving in different weather and road conditions under supervision helps teens build the skills and confidence needed to handle whatever the road may bring. By following these safety tips and staying alert to changing conditions, teen drivers can reduce their risk and drive safely in any situation.
Building Confidence Behind the Wheel
Confidence is a key ingredient in becoming a safe and skilled driver, and it develops over time with practice and support. Parents and driving instructors can help teen drivers build confidence by offering positive feedback, setting realistic goals, and encouraging practice in a variety of driving conditions. Participating in driving lessons and supervised driving practice allows teens to develop good driving behavior and safe driving practices, such as wearing seat belts, avoiding distractions, and following traffic laws. As teens gain experience behind the wheel, they can gradually take on more complex driving situations—like driving at night or in heavy traffic—always with guidance and encouragement from adults. By focusing on safe driving habits and building confidence step by step, teens can reduce their risk of being involved in a crash and set the stage for a lifetime of safe driving.
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. Driver’s education is a key component in preparing teens for safe driving and understanding road safety, as it teaches the rules of the road, safe driving practices, and risk reduction strategies through structured programs. 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. The learner’s permit stage has specific legal requirements and restrictions, and it is essential for teens to have supervised practice during this period to build foundational driving skills before advancing to higher license stages.
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. Pennsylvania also enforces seat belt laws, emphasizing the importance of seat belt use for all occupants. Wearing a seat belt is a critical safety measure that significantly reduces the risk of injury or death in a crash, and seatbelts are legally required for teen drivers and their passengers.
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. Parents should consistently model seat belt use and always wear a seatbelt themselves to set a positive example and reinforce the importance of road safety. 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.
Established in 1952 by Irwin S. Rubin, Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. boasts over 65 years of experience serving clients throughout Pennsylvania. Renowned for its commitment to ethical representation, the firm has garnered prestigious accolades, including being named the “Best Law Firm” for its outstanding legal defense work by U.S. News & World Report. Their team of seasoned attorneys, recognized as Pennsylvania Super Lawyers and Rising Stars, brings unparalleled expertise to a wide range of legal matters, ensuring exceptional representation for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
August 15, 2025
