Car Accidents High Among Teen Drivers

Teens have a higher risk for a car accident at any time, but the summer months are the worst, according to the study. The AAA reported that accidents involving teenagers ages 16 to 19 increase by 15 percent in the summer months.

Lack of experience, distractions causes of accidents among teens

The increased risk for car accidents among teens is not that surprising. Experience plays a big role in why teens are more likely to be in an accident. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that a teen’s limited driving experience and risk-taking behavior makes them more likely to be involved in crashes.

What factors contribute to accidents involving teenagers? The most common causes of crashes involve:

• Speeding

• Failure to follow traffic signs or signals

• Texting while driving

• Talking on a cellphone

• Talking to passengers

What can be done to keep teens safe?

Teenagers and drivers of all ages increase the risk of an accident when they exhibit these dangerous driving behaviors. Parents should talk to their teens about the dangers they face behind the wheel and make an effort to model safe driving behaviors when they are driving as an example.

It can be scary thinking about your teenager driving. However, understanding the risks and addressing ways to prevent distractions and other bad driving behaviors right away can make your teenager a better driver and reduce the risk of them getting into a crash.