Attorney at Graves McLain Injury Lawyers
Practice Areas: Car Accidents, Medical Malpractice, Vaccine Injuries
A recent two-vehicle crash involving three teenagers has emphasized the critical need for teen driving safety. The incident occurred west of Highway 271, where an 18-year-old driver crossed into oncoming traffic, leading to a serious accident. Tragically, not everyone involved was wearing a seatbelt, and the crash resulted in severe injuries and fatalities. This accident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers young drivers face and the importance of promoting awareness around teen driving safety.
Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in car accidents than experienced drivers. Despite making up only 7% of the driving population, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims that “Teen drivers aged 16-19 are involved in 10% of all motor vehicle crashes in the U.S.” Seven teenagers die in motor vehicle crashes per day on average, making them the most significant cause of death for teenagers.
Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC
This high accident rate is a result of both inexperience and dangerous driving practices, including speeding and inattentive driving. Additionally, according to the NHTSA, “the presence of teen passengers increases the crash risk for teen drivers by up to 44%.” The number of fatalities also increases at night; the teen driver fatality rate is three times higher at night than it is during the day.
These statistics highlight the importance of educating both Parents and teenagers regarding the risks of driving at night, with multiple passengers, and while distracted.
Parents have a vital role in guiding their teens toward safe driving habits. Below are essential tips that parents and teens should discuss to reduce the risk of teen driving accidents.
Wearing a seatbelt is one of the most effective ways to prevent injury in the event of a crash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that “The best strategy to prevent fatalities and minimize injuries in collisions is to wear seat belts.” This should be a non-negotiable rule for both the driver and passengers.
Seat belts reduce serious crash-related injuries and deaths by about half. — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Teen drivers should limit the number of passengers in their car, especially when driving alone for the first few months. According to the NHTSA, “Each additional passenger in a teen’s car increases the likelihood of an accident.” Encouraging your teen to limit the number of passengers can significantly reduce the risk of an accident.
Night driving increases the chances of a crash due to lower visibility and higher risks of encountering impaired drivers. The NHTSA’s Traffic Safety Facts reports, “Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in fatal crashes during the nighttime, as they may lack the experience to handle the dangers of driving in darkness.”
Teen drivers must adjust their driving behavior according to weather conditions. Whether it’s rain, snow, or fog, the CDC recommends driving at slower speeds and being extra cautious during inclement weather.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents for all drivers, particularly teens. The National Safety Council (NSC) states, “Taking your eyes off the road for just 5 seconds while traveling at 55 mph is the equivalent of driving a football field’s length blindfolded.” Teens should be encouraged to turn their phones off or put them away while driving. By instilling these habits in your teen, You may drastically lower the risks involved in driving.
Drivers under the age of 20 have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. — National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
When a teen is involved in a car accident, legal issues related to liability and insurance come into play. The Oklahoma Bar Association notes that “Parents may be held legally responsible for accidents caused by their teen drivers under the principle of vicarious liability.” This means that parents can be financially liable if their child’s driving negligence causes harm to others.
Teen drivers are also subject to Oklahoma’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws, which restrict their driving abilities. The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety emphasizes that “Teens with a learner’s permit cannot drive with passengers younger than 21 unless a qualified driver is present 21.”
Understanding the legal responsibilities of teen drivers and the potential liabilities of parents involved in accidents is essential.
If your teen is involved in a car accident, follow these critical steps to protect everyone involved:
An experienced car accident lawyer can help ensure the case is handled correctly, providing peace of mind during a stressful time.
In Oklahoma, there are specific laws for teen drivers, such as Oklahoma’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL), which imposes restrictions on new drivers. The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety states,
Teen drivers are prohibited from driving between 10pm and 5am without a parent or guardian unless they are driving to or from a job.
These laws can impact liability and insurance claims in the context of a teen driving accident. Understanding these local regulations helps parents ensure their teen drivers comply with the law.
The leading cause is distracted driving, particularly texting or using mobile phones. Speeding and alcohol use also contribute significantly to teen driving accidents.
In Oklahoma, teens have restrictions on nighttime driving under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws. They are not permitted to drive unsupervised between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.
Ensure safety, contact law enforcement, exchange information, document the scene, and consult a lawyer to understand your legal options.
A lawyer can assist in investigating the accident, handling insurance claims, and ensuring fair compensation, especially in cases where injuries or disputes over liability arise.
Vicarious liability means parents can be held responsible for their teen’s actions behind the wheel, particularly when they permit unsafe driving behaviors.
Teen driving safety is a shared responsibility between parents, teens, and the community. By emphasizing the importance of seatbelt use, limiting distractions, and understanding local driving laws, we can help ensure that young drivers stay safe. If your teen is involved in an accident, an experienced lawyer can help protect your rights and guide you through the legal process. Make safety a priority today to protect your teen and others on the road.
When injury victims need a law firm with a reputation for excellence, turn to Graves McLain Injury Lawyers. We are a top-rated personal injury firm determined to be the best. With decades of award-winning representation, our clients recover the compensation they need to put their lives back together.
