Why Are Teenage Drivers Dangerous?
Teenagers must pass a vision test, a written exam, and two road tests to become fully licensed, according to the Ministry of Transportation. However, these tests may not be indicators of a teenager’s mindset, alertness, or maturity level when operating a vehicle.
According to the Traffic Injury Research Foundation, over 700 Canadian drivers aged 15-24 are killed in car crashes each year. Furthermore, nearly 30% of all teenage deaths in the country are caused by car accidents.
Causes of Teenage Driver Car Accidents
Inexperience
Teenagers may cause accidents simply because they do not have enough experience behind the wheel. Inexperienced teenage drivers may not know how to operate a vehicle in hazardous conditions or react properly when quick, critical thinking is needed in an emergency.
Inexperienced drivers may also be unaware that their actions have negative consequences. Therefore, they may be more likely to engage in risky behaviour or underestimate a dangerous situation. They may also give in to peer pressure from passengers who may encourage dangerous driving.
Speeding
As a teen driver gains more confidence behind the wheel, they may operate their vehicle at faster speeds. However, teens may not yet be conditioned to look at the speedometer and may be unaware that they are driving well over a safe speed limit. Consequently, a teenager who regularly drives above the speed limit may be more likely to collide with another vehicle, or veer off the road when over-correcting a mistake, or slamming on the brakes.
Driving without a Seatbelt
Teenagers may be more likely to take risks when getting behind the wheel and therefore, they may choose not to wear a seatbelt. Whether it’s because they think seatbelts are uncool or uncomfortable, by neglecting this important safety protocol, they put themselves at risk of being severely injured in a collision.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is extremely dangerous at any age. However, it could be especially dangerous for a teenager who may not be accustomed to using these substances and therefore may not realize their level of intoxication. Teenagers may also assume that smoking marijuana does not affect their driving ability the same way alcohol or stronger drugs would, even though any drug has the potential to impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle.
Distracted Driving
A young driver may not realize how much focus is required to operate a car on the highway. Distracted driving can be deadly. Teenagers may be especially tempted to look down at their phones or use handheld electronic devices while driving. Their focus can easily be stolen by passengers in the vehicle, a song on the radio, or any number of other momentary distractions which could lead to a collision.
Contact Preszler Injury Lawyers Today
If you sustained injuries in a car accident caused by a teenage driver, a car accident lawyer may be able to investigate your accident, determine liability, and help you calculate your total losses. A lawyer may also be able to negotiate a settlement offer on your behalf, or if necessary, represent your case in court.
Ontario’s Limitations Act may require you to file a lawsuit within two years of your accident. If you wait longer to take legal action, you may no longer be eligible to recover compensation.
To discuss the details of your accident today, call Preszler Injury Lawyers at 1-800-JUSTICE for a free, initial consultation.
