During the first half of last year, the number of teen drivers that lost
their lives on the nation’s highways increased by 19 percent over
the same time in 2011, according to new preliminary data from the Governors
Highway Safety Association. That increase is alarming. Prior to 2011,
there had been eight straight years of declines in the number of deaths
of 16- and 17-year-old drivers.
Why the sudden spike? The report doesn’t specifically say what the
causes of the
car accidents were, but many experts feel it is a combination of reduced effectiveness
of graduated driver license laws, increased distracted driving, and good
economic times (meaning more people are commuting or travelling). The
more personal technology people bring into their cars, the less attention
they pay to the task of driving safely.
When drivers get in their vehicle, they need to do everything they can
to eliminate distractions. If that means putting a cell phone in a locked
glove compartment, where a person knows they won’t be able to get
to it, they should do so. It is the responsibility of all drivers to help
eliminate car accidents and fatalities on the road.
Distracted drivers not only risk injuring themselves, but also other motorists.
People who are injured in car accidents by negligent drivers might be wise
to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can help a
person understand their rights and make sure another person’s distracted
driving doesn’t result in financial hardship on top of the physical
challenges they might face after an accident.
Source: USA Today, ”
Deaths surge among youngest drivers,” Larry Copeland, Feb. 26, 2013
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