According to CBS News Health Pop, young drivers are most at risk of fatal car accidents. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that of the 34,485 motor vehicle fatalities in 2009, 22% involved drivers between the ages of 15 and 24 years old.
In addition, the CDC reports that most of the fatal crashes occurred in the southern parts of the U.S. Those with the highest number of deaths were in Miami and Orlando, Fla., along with Memphis, Tenn.
This study didn’t specifically look at the causes of the fatal car crashes, but parents and young drivers should be aware of common causes of fatal crashes. For instance, young drivers may drive while distracted (talking on phone, texting, and other inattentive behaviors), and are they are also more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as speeding.
Other common causes for younger drivers to be involved in crashes have included driving at night, inexperience, impairment, and having too many passengers in the vehicle. Despite these risk factors, efforts are being made to reduce the number of accidents involving teen and young adult drivers.
Graduated driver licensing policies and parental involvement are some of the helpful ways that younger drivers can be positively influenced. In addition, contracts or agreements between teen drivers and parents could go a long way.
Contacting a New York Accident Attorney
At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of accident attorneys that serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the five boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability, and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your car accident claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
