Author: Rosenberg & Gluck, LLP
Whenever an accident trend drops, we want to find out why and reinforce the successful measures that made a difference. Such is the case with teenage accident injuries and deaths, which are significantly less over the past three decades. By analyzing the causes of accidents, authorities can be more effective in preventing accidents.
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Main causes for teenage traffic accidents
The New York State Department of Health reports the main causes for teen driver crashes and injuries are the following:
- Speeding or driving at unsafe speeds for conditions
- Driving in-attention or distractions
- Failing to yield the right-of-way to other drivers
- Following other vehicles too closely
- Driver inexperience
- Failure to wear seat belts
Teens riding with teenage drivers are at the greatest risk for being in a car accident and more teenage vehicle crashes occur at night than any other time of the day.
Accident deterrents
The New York State Graduated Driver Licensing Law has taken these factors into consideration and imposed restrictions accordingly. Junior learner permit drivers may drive only between the hours of 5:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. and they must have a supervising adult (someone at least age 21) who has a valid driver’s license in the car with them. Only the supervising driver is allowed to sit in the front seat of the car. Unless passengers are members of the learner’s immediate family, restrictions permit only one passenger who is under the age of 21 in the car. The driver and all passengers must wear seat belts.
According to an article in the Telegraph Herald, fewer teenagers today are getting driver’s licenses than they were 30 years ago. Researchers say that one possible reason for the drop in driver’s licensees is virtual contact through the internet. Face-to-face encounters are not as necessary for teens to maintain their social lives with peers.
Teenagers should have a long life ahead of them. Consequently, teenage traffic injuries and deaths are some of the most tragic accidents. If you or a loved one is involved in a serious traffic accident, seek legal help. Rosenberg & Gluck has represented clients in traffic accident cases for the past three decades and has many successes in helping them recover compensation. Discuss your loved one’s accident with an experienced Long Island personal injury lawyer.
