Teen drivers are already considered a risk because of lack of experience behind the wheel. But the risk factor increases when they also engage in reckless behavior. That appears to be the case in an accident that injured a 55-year-old grandmother and killed a four-year-old girl in Manhattan.
The 17-year-old driver had been driving recklessly when law enforcement attempted to make a stop just blocks from where the fatal crash happened. The teen fled from police, jumped a curb and struck the pedestrians as they were crossing the street.
The teen only had a learner’s permit and shouldn’t have been driving alone. He is now facing vehicular manslaughter charges.
Teen Driver Risk Factors
The risk of a teen crashing is especially high for those:
- between the ages of 16 and 19;
- newly licensed; and
- male drivers, according to information shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Teen drivers are more likely to engage in risky behavior. Speeding and driving under the influence are examples. Distractions are another factor that may increase risk for an accident. Most common are talking on a cell phone and texting. Weather conditions can also play a role, because of inexperience with driving while it’s raining, snowing or during other kinds of inclement weather.
Whether it’s a teen or another driver, if careless or reckless actions resulted in someone sustaining serious injuries as a pedestrian or an occupant in another motor vehicle, then it’s important to consider seeking legal advice. Compensation for damages may be recoverable through a personal injury claim.
An attorney can help assemble evidence necessary to prove the case and file the paperwork. The law firm of Gacovino, Lake & Associates can assist those who have been injured or family who has lost a loved one in a serious auto accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver.
