Statistics show us that the drivers that are the most likely to get involved in a car accident is a driver between the ages of 16 and 18. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2008 there were almost 600 fatalities in crashes involving young drivers in California. This was the second highest in the country coming in right behind Texas who had 650 crashes.
What makes teenage drivers so prone to getting involves in these types of accidents? The causes vary, however, one of the biggest contributors is simply a lack of training. By not having enough spent behind the wheel, a young driver can panic at situations and be unsure of what to do. This can lead to them overcorrecting, braking suddenly or veering. In some situations, it can also cause them to be unaware that a situation is dangerous at all – leaving them vulnerable because they failed to defend themselves.
Also, due to their young age, many teen drivers are known to take unnecessary risks. Some contribute this to being overly confident in themselves – especially when it comes to their driving ability. This can lead to them taking unnecessary risks, such as not wearing their seat belts, and partaking in dangerous behavior like the following:
- Speeding;
- Following too close;
- Running red lights;
- Ignoring traffic signs;
- Making illegal turns; and
- Failing to yield
When this is combined with alcohol, drugs or rowdy passengers, the result can be catastrophic. This is especially true when teen drivers take to the roads at night. In fact, according to statistics provided by the California DMV, young drivers are three times more likely to get into an auto accident after 9 p.m., usually due to being tired, limited ability to see and, in some cases, the increased chance that they have been partying and / or drinking.
We at Pacific Attorney Group know the dangers associated with car accidents – regardless of what caused it. If you have recently been involved in a car accident caused by an inexperienced teenage driver or even if you have a child who was injured in an accident, you could have grounds to file a claim. By working with a knowledgeable Los Angeles personal injury lawyer from our firm, you will be able to take the necessary steps towards fighting for full financial compensation.
Contact a Los Angeles car accident attorney from our legal team as soon as possible if you would like to learn more about how we will be able to help you defend your legal rights. With extensive experience and a full-bodied understanding of personal injury law, you can be confident knowing that we will go the distance for you.