Teen drivers are riskier drivers, and Virginia knows this. In fact, the Virginia Department of Transportation (DOT) imposes special restrictions on teens. However, you are also an integral part of preventing teen-related car crashes, so it’s important you understand the unique risks teens pose, how to avoid an accident with a teen, and how an attorney can help if you have been injured.
Teens Pose Significant Risks
Primarily, teens are more dangerous simply because they’re young. They are less likely than adults to make decisions requiring critical thinking, and more likely to make a rash decision in a sticky situation. In addition to their youth, teens are also:
- Inexperienced. Learning a new skill requires real-world practice. Unfortunately, that means teens are learning by trial and error on the roads, risking safety.
- Riskier. Teens are more likely to drive impaired than adults, less likely to wear safety belts, more likely to speed in excess, and less likely to keep a safe following distance.
- Distracted. For many teens, a mobile phone is a link to the outside world—and 35% admit to texting or scrolling through social media while driving, even though they are aware of the dangers.
Preventing an Accident With a Teen
If you are a parent, it’s important you keep open lines of communication with your teen and prioritize her learning time with you in the car. Make sure your teen understands why focused, alert driving can save lives, and always know her whereabouts. If you’re on the road with a teen and are worried about a potential accident, you can take a few steps to stay safer, including:
- Wearing your seatbelt—always
- Keeping a healthy following distance.
- Staying alert to your surroundings.
- Calling law enforcement if you fear the young driver may cause immediate harm.
After a Crash, You Need Representation
Though some teens learn key driving lessons the hard way, it’s no excuse for the harm and damage they cause. If you’ve been injured in a crash, the team at Tavss Fletcher wants to hear about your case. We can review the details and help you plan your next steps toward recovery. To get started, fill out the online contact form on our website today.
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