According to statistics, new drivers are likely to get involved in auto accidents. Many of those new drivers are younger individuals between the ages of 16 to 19 years old. In fact, in 2018 alone, 285,000 teenagers were part of an auto accident; of those 285,000, over 2,500 teenagers were killed. Read on to learn further about why new drivers are prone to car accidents.
Drivers most at risk
Data has shown that teenagers are the most likely to be involved in an MVA. In fact, they are three times much more likely to face a fatal car crash accident than other age groups. However, it is important to dig deeper into these numbers to really understand who is at a higher risk. Let’s begin with gender. In 2018, male teenage drivers were more likely to die from a car accident than female drivers. Next, include the type of passengers within these vehicles. Because of a lack of parental supervision as well as a lack of experience, cars filled with nothing but teenagers are also likely to see themselves in an accident.
Factors that increase accidents
One of the best ways to understand why new drivers are so prone to be involved in an accident is to look at the various factors that have contributed to those high accident numbers. The most common include the inexperience new drivers have on the road. An experienced driver may see an obstacle on the road and understand that they must slow down and put on their hazard lights. A new (or teenage) driver might attempt to speed around it, thus causing them to lose control. The following includes additional risk factors:
- Distracted driving
- Alcohol use
- Speeding
- Nighttime driving
If you have been involved in an auto accident, it is important to consult with an attorney as soon as possible. The attorney may be able to provide you with the best possible legal route for your particular situation.
