Teens can be dangerous on the roads due to distracted driving, drowsy and night driving as well as being inexperienced drivers. The risk of car accidents is actually higher amongst ages 16-19 than any other age group.
75% are due to “critical errors”, such as speeding, distraction, and a lack of proper scanning the road in order to identify and respond to hazards.
If your teen is getting their driver’s licence or just passing their test, it’s possible to feel nervous about them driving on their own. Perhaps you were searching Google for “Riverdale car accident lawyer”. If you are the parent of a teen driver, then you have come to the right place. Continue reading to find out what you can do for your teen if they are ever in an accident.
Types of Teen Accidents
Teens are most likely to be involved in the following types of accidents:
Distracted Driving
Millions of drivers, of all ages, continue to ignore the laws against distracted driving despite them being quite clear. Distracted driving can lead to catastrophic injuries. Let’s look at some facts about distracted driving and teens:
- A CDC study showed that 39% high school students who drove in a 30 day time period texted or emailed while driving at minimum of one time
- Students who text or used email while driving are also more likely than others to report other transportation risks behaviors
- Teens don’t always use a seatbelt
- Teens are much more likely to ride with someone who has been drinking
- Teens are also much more likely to drive after drinking
- Auto-Pedestrian Accidents
An auto accident involving a pedestrian can cause serious injuries and damages, both mentally and physically. While an auto-pedestrian accident can be traumatizing to almost anyone, it is especially devastating for teens. Auto-pedestrian accidents are more likely to occur due to alcohol use, distracted driving and night driving.
Due to the fact that these types of accidents can cause serious injuries, it is vitally important that your teenager consults an attorney immediately after being involved in a collision with a pedestrian.
Handling a Teen Driver’s First Accident
It is a parent’s worst nightmare to receive a call from their teenager driver to inform them that they have been in an accident. It is important to remain calm, reassuring and supportive. This experience can be very scary and even traumatizing for teens. The most important thing to remember, as a parent, is that their child is okay.
It can be very frustrating, especially if your teenager was texting or driving with rambunctious peers or doing something that could have otherwise prevented the accident. However, it is important not to get angry, shout at, or blame your teen for the accident.
This is a learning opportunity that can be used to reinforce the importance of safe driving for your teen’s safety, their passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. Reinforce that this is why driving is a privilege.
Once your teen is safe, it’s time for you to begin gathering information. You can meet them at the scene of the accident or as close as possible. Here are our recommendations:
- Move Cars to Safety – Make sure that your teen’s car, and all other cars involved (including yours), are moved to a safe location to avoid traffic jams
- Call Police – Get in touch with the police immediately
- Seek Medical Attention – Call an ambulance if your teen or anyone else involved in the accident is hurt
- Check for Leaks – Make sure your teen checks the car for any fluid leaks. Call 911 if any fluids are found to be leaking.
- Take Notes and Gather Information – When you reach the scene, grab a notebook or use the Notes app on your device to keep track of everything. Note down the details of the scene, including the weather conditions and the time it occurred. Gather the contact information of any witnesses.
- Record the Scene – Take photos of the scene and the cars that are involved using your smartphone
- Don’t Apologize – Do not make any comments about other motorists claiming fault, or apologize for anything. It is best not to speak to anyone about the accident until your attorney is present
- Cooperate – For the police to properly investigate an accident, you must cooperate with them and give them information such as your name, and insurance information
- Call a Lawyer – Contact a Riverdale car accident lawyer. It can be overwhelming for teens to experience their first car accident. You can rely on the knowledge of a licensed attorney for guidance and protection.
We understand that it is scary to think of our children being in an accident, however a little preparation can help you be ready to handle the situation and minimize any damage.
Are You Looking for a Riverdale Car Accident Lawyer? Get in Touch with Humphrey & Ballard Today
A skilled Riverdale car accident lawyer is necessary if your teen was recently involved in a car crash. At Humphrey & Ballard, we are your go-to Riverdale car accident lawyers thanks to our expertise and dedication to our customers. Contact us today by calling 404-341-0499 and let’s start building a strong case for your teen driver.
