(From CNN 3.11.13) “The eight teenagers crammed into an SUV that was only supposed to seat five.
They were driving a vehicle they didn’t have permission to use.
And they were speeding down a two-lane northeastern Ohio road, authorities say.
But any poor judgment was quickly eclipsed by a tragic crash that cut short six young lives.
The black Honda Passport veered over the left side of the road, crashed into a guardrail, and flipped over into a pond near the city of Warren.
Investigators are trying to determine why, but Ohio State Highway Patrol Lt. Brian Holt said Monday that weather was not a factor in what he called the deadliest traffic accident in Trumbull County history — and the worst in Ohio in at least three years.
The vehicle was going faster than the 35-mph posted limit, but the exact speed wasn’t clear, Holt said.
Officers are waiting for the results of toxicology tests, but Holt said no signs of alcohol or drugs were found inside the vehicle….”
Tragic…
According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control, almost one-quarter of all 15 to 24- year olds who died in 2010 were killed in car accidents. That makes auto accidents a more prolific killer of teenagers than firearms, homicides, suicides, and accidental poisonings.
Why are our children dying in car accidents at this rate?
There are many reasons. Here are a few of the most common:
- Distracted driving. Cell phone technology is dangerous to health and safety. Texting or using a cell phone while driving is a killer – particularly with young drivers.
- Substance use. Drugs and alcohol impair judgment, timing, perception, and more.
- Young drivers carrying passengers. With each additional passenger in the car – the likelihood that a teenage driver will have a car accident goes up sharply.
- Driving mistakes. Young drivers are by definition inexperienced. And they make mistakes. Mistakes that can change lives.
If you have a young driver – talk to them. Remind them not to use their cell phones when driving, to not drive under the influence, and to be careful when carrying passengers. And most of all – be a great example for your children. They repeat what they see you do.
If you or a loved one is ever injured in a car accident in Connecticut– call us. We will help protect your rights. The car accident lawyers at RisCassi & Davis have been helping victims of car accidents for over 65 years. What’s more, our Connecticut car accident attorneys have received local and national recognition for our handling of car accident cases including:
- Top listing in “The Best Lawyers in America” and “Best Law Firms”
- Admission of five of our personal injury lawyers as members in the very prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers. The American College is a professional society of Fellows who become members only by invitation, with admission limited to experienced, outstanding trial lawyers who are unquestionably and eminently qualified as actively engaged trial lawyers. Only 1% of all trial lawyers in any state are offered admission as members to the College.
- Listing in New England Super Lawyers published by Connecticut Magazine. Less than 5% of attorneys in the New England states receive this honor
- Lifetime Achievement awards from the Connecticut Trial Lawyers Association
- Board Certification by the National Board of Trial Advocacy
The Connecticut car accident lawyers at RisCassi & Davis are committed to helping Connecticut drivers.
If you would like a free consultation about your car accident, please contact us today. There is no obligation of any kind. We are ready to help.