Now that summer is here teens in Santa Ana will be hitting the streets as they head to their summer jobs, go to the beach, run errands for their parents or simply go “cruising” with their friends. However, teens simply do not have the experience and maturity that adult drivers do which could lead them to make many risky driving decisions. This is why the time from Memorial Day to Labor Day is referred to as the “100 deadliest days” for teen drivers.
The statistics
New teens age 16 to 17 years old are three times as likely to be involved in a fatal motor vehicle accident than adult drivers. In fact, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the U.S. Six teens lose their lives each day in avoidable auto accidents. Parents should take the time to discuss the following risky driving habits with their teen drivers.
Risky driving behaviors
Driving with passengers can be distracting as can cell phones and in-car infotainment systems. These factors can increase the risk that a teen will be involved in a car crash. Driving at night when visibility is reduced, and teen drivers are fatigued could also lead to a car crash. Teens may drink alcohol at a party of club even though they are not yet 21 and may then get behind the wheel of a car leading to a drunk driving accident. Teens may also be more apt to speed. Speeding is a primary factor in many motor vehicle accidents involving teens.
Learn more about motor vehicle accidents
Parents can talk to their teenage drivers about safe driving practices, but some teens will not heed their parents’ advice and will drive recklessly. This could lead to a motor vehicle accident that results in injures or fatalities. Those in Santa Ana who want further information on motor vehicle accidents are encouraged to explore our firm’s website to learn more.