In California, there are certain age groups who have a higher chance of being in an auto accident. Teens are a prominent concern due to their propensity for risky driving behaviors. Their lack of experience and behaviors such as texting and driving can cause collisions with injuries and fatalities. Legislators, law enforcement and parents are taking steps to try to mitigate these possibilities by encouraging teens to adhere to safe driving strategies. While this can be effective, it also highlights certain activities teens take part in behind the wheel and how they can place themselves and others in jeopardy.
Week dedicated to teen safety emphasizes distraction and inexperience
National Teen Driver Safety Week from October 18 to 24 was designated to emphasize safety for teens as they get started on the road. In various areas of Southern California, law enforcement is advising parents to try and instill safe tactics from the outset of teens’ driving lives. Inexperience is a challenge that is generally unavoidable. Young and new drivers inevitably make mistakes. There are some, however, that can be mitigated with proper advice and teaching.
Distracted driving is a nationwide issue, but it is especially common in teens. In California, drivers under 18 are prohibited from using an electronic device while driving no matter the reason. This includes hands-free devices. In the state, there are graduated driver’s license laws. With GDL, drivers under 18 cannot have a passenger who is younger than 20 unless there is a licensed parent, guardian or a licensed driver at least 25-years-old in the vehicle. These young drivers are also banned from the road between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. Driving under the influence is, of course, illegal. Those under 21 are subject to zero-tolerance laws meaning they cannot have any alcohol in their system. Finally, speeding is one of the most common catalysts for a motor vehicle accident. Teens are told to stay within the speed limit.
Safety campaigns will not prevent all crashes
Even with these comprehensive safety campaigns aimed at one of the most dangerous demographics on the road – teens – there are some collisions that cannot be avoided. Often, they happen because drivers ignore these bullet points designed to educate them on how to be safe and prevent auto accidents. Motor vehicle accidents can change a person’s life physically, financially, professionally and emotionally. When there is an auto accident, it is imperative to understand how and why it happened and to take appropriate steps to recover compensation whether that is through a settlement or a legal filing. Contacting a firm with experience in investigating these crashes may help with a claim.
