Summer: The Deadliest Time of Year for Teenage Drivers

The American Automobile Association (AAA) labels the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day as the “100 Deadliest Days.” This disturbing description stems from the fact that fatal teen driving accidents increase by 15% during the summer months, when compared to the remainder of the year.

According to AAA, more than 1,600 people have been killed in teen driver involved accidents during the summer months in the last five years. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s latest study, Rates of Motor Vehicle Crashes, Injuries, and Deaths in Relation to Driver Age, analyzed crash rates per mile driven for all drivers.

The study, found that for every mile on the road, drivers ages 16-17 years old are:

• Nine times more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash, when compared to drivers 18 and older
• Six times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash, when compared to drivers 18 and older
• Five times more likely to be involved in a crash, when compared to drivers 30-59
• Twice as likely to be involved in a fatal crash, when compared to drivers 30-59

The reasons for these increased accident and fatality rates are numerous. Lack of experience is a major factor, particularly during the summer months when school is out and more teen drivers are on the roadways. Speeding is also a common factor in these tragic accidents, as well as driving distractions. Whether it’s texting on a cell phone or attending to other passengers in the car, teen drivers and distractions are a proven deadly match.

What to do if a teen driver causes you harm

When teenage drivers cause accidents, the claims process can prove challenging. These drivers generally do not carry their own automobile insurance. Instead, they are included on the policies of their parents or guardians. The parent’s insurer may examine the vehicle accident with greater scrutiny, alleging that the teen was negligent or reckless in their driving behaviors.

Another problem occurs when parents fail to insure their teen drivers, often under the rationale of saving money. Under these circumstances, the vehicle owner’s insurance may still have a financial responsibility to pay, though securing compensation may be more difficult. If you are involved in an accident with a teen driver, gather as much information about the driver as possible. It is also helpful to collect contact information from any witnesses at the scene. Their accounts are extremely valuable if the teen’s fault comes into question.

These troubling statistics demonstrate the risks involved when teenage drivers take to the roadways of Tennessee. If a negligent teen driver hurt you or a loved one, count on knowledgeable Memphis car accident attorneys to fight for the compensation you deserve. The attorneys of Bailey & Greer, PLLC provide quality legal representation when residents of Memphis, Jackson, and West Tennessee are injured by another’s negligence. Contact our office at 901-680-9777 or complete our convenient contact form today for a confidential consultation.