Teen drivers face unique challenges and risks on the road, where car accidents involving young drivers are all too common. Despite advancements in driver education and safety measures, we continue to see many auto accidents involving teen drivers yearly.
Our car accident attorney in Miami often witnesses the consequences that teen driver accidents can bring. Exploring the challenges of driving as a teen and related statistics can help you better understand this growing concern in Miami, OK.
Teen Accident Statistics Nationwide
According to data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there has been a consecutive increase in the number of teen motor-vehicle occupant fatalities.
In 2021, there were 2,723 occupant deaths, marking an 11.2% rise from the previous year’s count of 2,448. These numbers are shocking and show the ongoing issue related to preventable teen deaths in the U.S.
Including incidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists, the total number of teen deaths in the age range of 13 to 19 reached 3,058 in 2021, averaging more than eight fatalities daily.
The impact of crashes involving young drivers (aged 15 to 20) extends across all age groups. In 2021, there were 5,565 fatalities attributed to crashes involving at least one young driver, reflecting a 9.8% increase from the previous year’s total of 5,069.
Notably, young drivers accounted for only 38% of the overall fatalities associated with crashes involving them. Specifically, there were 2,116 young driver fatalities, 1,065 passenger fatalities, 1,666 fatalities among occupants of other vehicles, and 718 non-occupant fatalities in 2021.
Causes of Teen Car Accidents
Statistics show that teen drivers are ten times more likely to be involved in fatal collisions than adult drivers. Our Miami car accident attorneys often witness the overwhelming consequences that motor vehicle accidents involving teens can have on the lives of everyone involved. Knowing some common factors contributing to these accidents can help reduce the number of collisions reported annually in Oklahoma.
Multiple factors contribute to the heightened risk of major car accidents involving teenagers. Some of the most common include:
- Lack of driving experience and maturity: Younger drivers are ill-prepared to handle various road scenarios and hazards compared to seasoned drivers. This inexperience often leads to improper reactions and difficulty managing speed, especially in adverse weather conditions.
- More likely to be distracted: Distractions like texting or talking on their phones while driving pose a significant risk on the road. Studies indicate that texting while driving is comparable in danger to driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Presence of passengers: The Journal of the American Medical Association highlights the increased risk for teen drivers with vehicle passengers. Analysis of fatality reports involving 16 and 17-year-old drivers revealed a direct correlation between the number of passengers and the likelihood of fatal accidents.
Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Program in Oklahoma
Approximately 25% of all 16-year-old drivers in Oklahoma will get at least one traffic violation or are involved in an accident in their first year behind the wheel. To help reduce this number, we offer the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program to help improve teen motorists’ driving abilities and judgment. This initiative helps expose young drivers to varied road conditions, which prepares them for real-life situations.
Comprising three distinct stages – the learner’s permit, intermediate license, and full driver’s license – the GDL program has specific requirements and constraints to ensure teens gain invaluable experience before acquiring unrestricted driving privileges.
By navigating through each stage, teen drivers can build safe driving behaviors while reducing the risks of being a new driver.
The Importance of Teen Driver Education
As teenagers hit the road, understanding the importance of driver education and training is crucial. These skills can significantly impact their safety and others on the road. Driver education goes beyond just passing a test; it instills essential knowledge about traffic laws, defensive driving techniques, and proper vehicle handling.
Training programs provide real-world experience that textbooks can’t replicate. Teens learn to anticipate potential hazards and react appropriately in challenging situations through hands-on practice and guidance from skilled instructors.
Legal options may be available if you were involved in an accident with a teenage driver. Seeking guidance from a Miami, OK, car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights during this time.
Call Our Miami, OK Car Accident Lawyer For Help
Doney Law, PLLC, is a top Miami personal injury law firm that offers just that. Our experienced and aggressive car accident attorney in Miami, OK, will fight for your rights and hold those responsible accountable for the damages caused by their negligence.
Do not face the aftermath of a car accident alone. Call our Miami, OK, car accident lawyer today to ensure you get justice.
