With the summer getting closer, many teens are looking forward to the long vacation ahead. After all, they get about 100 days off of school and away from academic responsibility. During this period, they can spend time with their family, hang out with friends and sleep in as late as they’d like every single day. It is a much-anticipated break from the mundane school schedule they usually have to adhere to.
Unfortunately, the summer months are also considered to be more dangerous for teens. In fact, the spike in teen-related car accidents is so significant that some experts refer to the period from Memorial Day to the first day of a new school year as the “100 deadliest days” of the year.
Statistics about Teen Car Crashes in the Summer
A recent study discovered that car accidents involving teen drivers take over 1,000 lives in those 100 days, which is more than 10 deaths each day. During this time, the fatality rate increases by 16 percent as well.
The reasons for this spike are varied. For example, since school is out, teens are on the road more often. They are driving to their friend’s house, the beach and other destinations, instead of being in a classroom. The more miles traveled, the more likely an accident is.
Another issue is distractions while on the road. This includes texting and driving, being on the phone and even having friends in the vehicle. Another study discovered that 58.5 percent of all accidents involved some form of distraction. There are some teens who even browse through social media sites while they are behind the wheel, putting themselves and everyone else on the road around them in danger.
How to Avoid Teen-Related Car Accidents this Summer
Unfortunately, these statistics hit close to home for many families each summer. In an effort to reduce the number of teen-related car accidents, it is a good idea for parents to speak to their children about the dangers on the road. There is even new technology available that locks the driver’s phone until the car is off.
What to do if You’re Involved in an Accident?
If you happen to be in a car accident with a teen driver, or anyone else, it is best to retain the services of a quality personal injury attorney. The attorney can review the facts of the case and determine what needs to be done to help you acquire the compensation that you deserve.
If distraction played a role in your car accident, you might be able to recover monetary compensation for your injuries, damages to your vehicle, lost wages, pain and suffering and more. The best way to know for sure is by utilizing the services of a personal injury attorney.
To learn more about car accidents and your rights, contact the personal injury lawyers from Hilton & Somer, LLC by calling (703) 560-0700. They can review your case and let you know what options you have.
