As a teenager, finally earning your driver’s license can be a liberating experience. You now have the freedom to drive to school, go see friends, or just explore the open road. However, the first years that you operate a vehicle may also be the most dangerous time that you will spend on the road. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), car accidents are the leading cause of teenage deaths in the United States. To help keep teen drivers safe, we have put together a list of five driving and safety tips.
1.Don’t Use Your Cellphone: The use of a cellphone is among the most common reasons for driver distraction. While it can be tempting to take a quick glance at your phone when you receive a text, resist the urge until you are finished driving. In fact, some research suggests that carrying on a conversation, even while using a hands-free system, can constitute enough of a distraction to increase the risk of accidents.
2.Always wear your seatbelt: The seatbelt is one of the first lines of defense in an accident, yet it may be overlooked by teen drivers. Studies conducted by the CDC as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have found that teens are less likely to wear seat belts thantheiradult counterparts. In an accident, safety belts are a critical component in preventing serious injury.
3.Take a driving course: Inexperience is another leading cause of car accidents. Young drivers may simply not have the experience to quickly recognize potential hazards while on the road. Teens may also be more likely to engage in dangerous driving behavior due to inexperience. Enrolling in a driving safety course can help teens to prepare for the numerous dangers on the road.
4.Slow down: Speed kills - most drivers have heard the phrase. However, speeding remains a leading cause of motor vehicle accident deaths among teens. The CDC has reported that 36% of accidents involving male drivers aged 15 to 20 involved speeding. At freeway speeds, an increase of only a few miles per hour above the speed limit can result in substantially increased stopping periods while reducing the overall time a driver has to react.
5.Don’t drink and drive: According to a 2014 NHTSA study, 17% of motorists between the ages of 16 and 20 who were involved in a fatal accident had a blood alcohollevelof .08% or more. When it comes to drinking and driving, it’s simple -don’t do it.
Experienced Car Accidents Attorneys
At The Womac Law Firm, we have been working with accident victims for over 30 years and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Whether you have been involved in an accident with a teen driver or an 18-wheeler, our New Orleans car accident attorneys can help. If you need legal assistance with your claim or you think the insurance company is treating you unfairly, contact our firm and "Put the Womac on ‘Em!”
Call (504) 470-3935 and a request a FREE consultation today.
