Did you know that car crashes remain the leading cause of death for teenagers ages 14-18 in the United States? Teen Driver Safety Week, taking place on October 18 to 24 will focus on best safety practices and behaviors for keeping teens safe, as they learn to drive and navigate the roadways by themselves.
Being distracted while driving remains one of the major factors that result in tragic car crash fatalities and injuries in teens. Now more than ever, teens have so many different distractions that can take the focus away from driving. These distractions can be prevented and greatly minimized when parents frequently communicate the consequences of such distractions. Parents should also be reminded that their driving sets a crucial example for their teens in teaching safe driving habits and behaviors. If you’re looking for a reputable auto accident attorney in Tulsa, contact one of our attorneys today for a free consultation.
Below are some common causes of Teen Driver Distraction that often pose life-threatening risks.
- Texting while driving, particularly for teens, has become a nationwide epidemic. While teaching their teens to drive, parents can set a good example by keeping cell phones (and all electronics) turned off or completely stowed away.
- Carrying other teen passengers is another main cause of distraction that continues to pose great dangers. Whether teens get distracted by loud music, peer pressure, horseplay or just talking, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that other teen passengers significantly increase the chances of vehicle crashes for drivers 18 years and younger. Parents may want to set up ground rules to keep their teens safe by limiting other passengers from riding with them initially.
- Eating, drinking, and reaching for objects in the car are other major distractions that pull drivers attention off the road in front of them. Parents should encourage their teens to stay alert at all times when driving.
If your teenage child is just beginning to drive, make sure to discuss responsible driving practices with them. Even with the best safety practices, your teen can’t control the behavior of other drivers. If you or your teenager has been injured in an auto accident, you may be entitled to compensation.
Contact our experienced Tulsa personal injury lawyers in Tulsa at The Edwards Law Firm to discuss your auto accident injury. We provide an initial evaluation for FREE, and our attorneys only get paid when a recovery is made on your behalf. Schedule your free consultation today.