Teen Driving Statistics You Need to Know
Keeping Your Teen Safe on New York Roadways
With millions of teens heading back to school, it is important to remember that motor vehicle accidents are one of the leading causes of death for young adults. Newly licensed teens are particularly at risk due to their inexperience and inattention. As we gear up for another school year, let’s remind our youngest motorists of how to stay safe while driving.
At Denlea & Carton, we understand that no parent wants to think about their child being involved in a car accident. The reality is that thousands of teens are injured in motor vehicle crashes each year in New York. Our lawyers provide experienced representation for individuals injured in auto accidents throughout the state.
If you or your teen was injured in a car accident, contact our office at (914) 368-7168 for a free consultation.
Teen Driver Crash Statistics
According to the New York State Department of Health, motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of unintentional deaths for 16 and 17-year-olds. Approximately 10 people are hospitalized or killed every day as a result of a crash caused by a teen motorist.
In a single year, crashes involving teen drivers result in:
- 16 deaths
- 184 hospitalizations
- 3,401 emergency department visits
- $23 million in hospital charges
Data also shows that newly licensed teen drivers are at the “highest risk of a car crash” in the months immediately following receiving their license. The statistics are devastating, but most of these accidents can be prevented.
Causes of Teen Car Accidents
As with other motor vehicle accidents, most teen crashes are caused by negligence or recklessness. If you or your child is involved in a collision with a teen driver, you need to consult with a knowledgeable car accident lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your damages.
Common causes of teen car accidents in New York:
- Inexperience
- Fatigued driving
- Driving under the influence or impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe speed
If you are involved in an accident, do not delay medical treatment. You need to treat your injuries promptly to ensure you make a full recovery. Failure to seek or continue treatment can directly impact your case.
Safety Tips for Teen Motorists in New York
While New York ranked as the best state for teen drivers, there are still things that you can do to keep your child safe.
Teen drivers should remember to:
- Always wear their seatbelt.
- Never drive impaired.
- Put away distractions such as cell phones.
- Obey the speed limit.
- Know the rules of the road.
- Give plenty of time to get to their location.
The more experience your teen has behind the wheel, the better chances that they will know how to react in a dangerous situation. Help your teen by ensuring they take a defensive driving or driver’s education course.
Get the Dedicated Representation You Deserve
If you are injured in a car accident, contact our office at (914) 368-7168 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you get the compensation you deserve after a crash. Call now to get started.
