For many teens in Indiana, summertime means less school and work and more leisure and vacation. However, the "100 Deadliest Days" from Memorial Day to Labor Day bring a significant increase in car accident fatalities involving teen drivers.
Research shows that as teen drivers have more free time during the summer, they may be more likely to engage in risky driving behavior than other age groups.
Data from 2013-2022 shows that 7,435 people died nationwide in teen driver-related summertime crashes. In 2022 alone, 790 people were killed, which marks a 10% increase over pre-pandemic 2019. Both the number of teen drivers involved in fatal crashes and the number of resulting deaths increased from 2021 to 2022.
What contributes to car accidents involving teens?
According to the AAA Foundation, distractions are a major cause of car accidents involving teens. This is typically caused by cell phone use and having other teen passengers in the car. For example, when a teen driver has only teen passengers, the fatality rate for all people increases by 51%.
With older passengers 35+ in the car, the overall crash fatality rates decrease by 8%. Other top contributors to unsafe teen driving are speeding, driving recklessly, and failing to stop at red lights.
How can car accidents involving teens be prevented?
Both teen drivers and parents can do their part to prevent car accidents involving teens throughout Indiana. In fact, both can work together to achieve maximum safety during the 100 Deadliest Days. Here are some ways teen drivers can stay safe:
- Always buckle up.
- Avoid driving while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or lack of sleep.
- Put your cell phone away and avoid other distractions while driving.
- Follow all posted speed limits and adjust speed for weather and road conditions.
- Limit the number of passengers you have in your car.
- Practice defense driving techniques and anticipate others' mistakes.
- Never assume having the right of way means it's safe to proceed.
- Regularly practice driving in a variety of conditions to build your skills.
For families looking to get teens licensed this summer, AAA recommends choosing a high-quality driving school that uses a curriculum that meets national standards, is a member of professional associations, and offers parent sessions. Once teens are licensed, here are some ways parents can help keep them safe:
- Set a good example by modeling safe driving behaviors.
- Have early and frequent conversations about the risks of speeding, impairment, and distractions.
- Set nighttime curfews.
- Use a parent/teen driving agreement to set clear expectations and consequences.
- Regularly check in about their driving experiences and address any unsafe habits.
Seek justice with a skilled Indiana car accident lawyer
Remember, motor vehicle accidents can happen to anyone, regardless of age or driving experience. It only takes one negligent driver to cause a crash that leaves you or someone you care about severely injured.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an Indiana car crash that was someone else's fault, navigating the aftermath alone can be overwhelming. You could be faced with medical bills piling up and insurance companies trying to minimize or deny your compensation.
At Boughter Sinak, LLC, our attorneys are dedicated to fighting for the justice and financial compensation crash victims deserve. Whether it's negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, we have the knowledge, experience, and determination to pursue the best possible outcome for you.
Contact us online or call our law offices in Fort Wayne or South Bend to schedule a consultation. Our team is ready to listen to your story, answer your questions, and help you understand your legal options. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery.