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Most Accidents on the Road are Caused by Teen Drivers

February 20, 2017 Hastings and Hastings

There are many vehicular accidents that occur in Phoenix and other parts of the United States that could easily be prevented. In fact, any accident that is a result of drowsiness, drunk driving, or distracted driving can be prevented. And while a large portion of accidents to take place because of the three reasons previously mentioned, the U.S. Census Bureau conducted a study and found that the majority of accidents include teen drivers. Why is this? Part of the reason is because teen drivers are inexperienced when it comes to driving, especially when it comes to problematic weather and dealing with aggressive drivers.

A study released by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety found teen drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 are three times more likely to be involved in an accident than those who are 20-years-old or older. And while many times elderly drivers are deemed as the culprit for a large percentage of car accidents, when compared with teen drivers, the latter still pulls out on top for being responsible for more wrecks. In fact, less experience — the type that comes with being a teen driver — spells out to be a primary cause for vehicular accidents. From a percentage standpoint, over 12 percent of accidents are caused by teen drivers, with only 7.5 percent being caused by senior drivers.

Fortunately, legislatures across the country have started taking note to this undeniable trend existing among teen drivers, and thanks to their recognition of this issue, all 50 states have implemented graduated drivers licensing programs; this requires teens to have more practice behind the wheel before they are able to qualify for a driver’s license. It is believed that with more experience behind the wheel comes a reduction in the number of accidents that will take place with teen drivers the at-fault or responsible party.

Teen drivers today are dealing with distractions that other teen drivers were not distracted by years ago. With the increasing popularity of smartphones, it has become a major concern among all states that teen drivers be prohibited from texting or using a cell phone while driving. When distractions are combined with a general lack of experience in driving, this often proves to be a disaster.

If you have been involved in a vehicular accident with a teen driver, you need to consult an attorney as soon as possible to see if you qualify for a personal injury claim. A professional attorney can assess the details of your case and provide you with the proper steps you need to take to ensure you get any monies owed to you.