Teenagers are often excited to get behind the wheel and experience the freedom that comes with being able to drive themselves. While they must have a certain amount of training and pass a test, this does not mean that they have enough experience to always make the best decisions while driving. Due to this lack of experience, it is especially important for younger drivers to take every possible precaution while they are on the road.
If you are a teen driver or the parent of a teen driver, knowing how to drive as safely as possible is critical. Each driver is responsible for the choices he or she makes while behind the wheel, regardless of the driver’s age. Just one poor decision or moment of distraction can have devastating consequences for a driver, passenger and other motorists.
Discussing driving safety
According to the United States Department of Transportation, some of the biggest safety risks associated with teen drivers are distraction, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and drowsy driving. Another problem often seen with teen drivers is lack of safety belt use. Teens and parents of teens will find the following driving safety tips helpful:
- Driving while intoxicated significantly increases the chance of a fatal accident, even if the driver is only going a short distance.
- Riding in a vehicle with an impaired driver is also incredibly dangerous, and passengers can suffer significant harm in drunk driving accidents.
- Only a few seconds of distraction can result in a driver’s eyes being off the road for a significant distance.
- Phone use of any kind while driving is dangerous, even if the driver is using a hands-free system or doing speech commands.
- Eating, drinking, changing the radio station and even talking to a passenger can be dangerously distracting for any driver, but especially dangerous for a teen driver.
When a driver acts recklessly or negligently, resulting in harm to another motorist, that individual may be responsible for damages and harm suffered by the victim. Through the civil justice system, it may be possible to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions, seeking justice in the form of financial compensation. As each situation is different, a victim will benefit from seeking guidance regarding his or her specific legal options as soon as possible after an accident.
