No age group has a higher fatal car accident rate than teenage drivers. This is especially true for young teens who are 16 or 17 years old and have only recently received their licenses. Even by ages 18 and 19, fatal accident rates begin to decline, and there is another substantial drop for drivers in their 20s.
In this sense, age is certainly correlated with serious car accidents. But what are some of the reasons why young drivers are more susceptible to these crashes?
Engaging in risky behaviors
For one thing, young people are often more likely to make risky or dangerous decisions. They may not fully think through the long-term consequences of their actions. Examples can include speeding, aggressive driving or failing to wear a seatbelt.
Driving with friends
Teens are also more likely to drive with friends in the vehicle, especially when they are the first person in their friend group to get a driver’s license. However, crash risks increase when there are other teenagers in the car. A group of high school students driving together is statistically more likely to be involved in an accident than a single teen driving alone.
Inexperience
The main reason for many of these crashes, however, is simply inexperience. Young drivers are more likely to overlook hazards, make poor decisions or react incorrectly in dangerous situations because they have spent less time behind the wheel.
Driving safely takes practice and experience, and young drivers are still developing those skills.
Seeking compensation
Have you or a loved one been injured in an accident caused by another driver? If so, it is important to understand what legal options may be available to seek financial compensation.