Teens as drivers can be a dangerous group and they cause a disproportionate share of car accidents.
There are many reasons why. There’s the newness of the mechanical aspects of driving. There’s the intoxicating aspect of new freedoms (independence from parents and home). And there is the unfamiliarity with unpredictable environmental conditions (rain, snow, fog, sunlight, darkness, etc.) and with the odd behaviors of other drivers that no driver education program or parent can fully teach.
But are some days in fact more dangerous for teen drivers than others – days when more teenage car accidents occur?
Yes.
The first week of driving is particularly dangerous. And then there are what police call “the 100 deadliest days” – Memorial Day to Labor Day.
On average, over 50% of drivers killed on our highways in car accidents during these 100 days are our youngest drivers.
What are the causes?
During the 100 days, teens have more free time and spend considerably more time driving and socializing. Add in alcohol and drug use along with modern distractions like texting, talking on the phone, playing with vehicle controls, horseplay and loud talking with passengers and you have a prescription for tragedy.
So – what can we say to the teenage drivers in our lives that might help keep them safe? The AAA suggests we tell them the following:
- Stay focused, scan the road and use mirrors to watch for other vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians at all times
- Keep belongings out of reach, and where they’re not free to roll around in the car
- Adjust vehicle settings before taking off, including GPS, seats, mirrors, AC and heat, and radio
- Avoid dressing, applying cosmetics while behind the wheel
- Eat before you leave home so you don’t snack when you’re on the road
- Do not use mobile devices – phone calls, text messaging, and social media can wait
- Let passengers know you need to be alert, encourage their help to keep you focused
If you’re ever injured in a car accident, know that the Connecticut car accident lawyers at RisCassi & Davis have been assisting drivers injured in accidents for 60 years. And we have received both state and national recognition for our work in this area.
If you are ever in a car accident of any kind and would like a free consultation with one of our Connecticut car accident lawyers, please contact us.
There is no obligation.