When Are Teen Drivers Most Likely to Be Involved in Serious Car Crashes?
For a teenager, a driver’s license can provide a sense of freedom. Unfortunately, teenagers do not always use the best judgment, and they have a limited number of years of driving experience. Because of these factors, they are more likely to become involved in car accidents that can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Teen Car Accident Statistics
According to the National Safety Council, car accidents are the number one cause of preventable deaths for teens. There were 2,707 teens killed as drivers or passengers in car accidents in 2023, which was an increase of 5.9% from the previous year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports that teenagers between the ages of 16 and 19 have a higher risk of being involved in car accidents than other drivers. Teens in this age group are almost three times as likely to be involved in fatal car crashes as drivers who are over the age of 20.
Days and Times When Fatal Teen Crashes Are More Likely
Serious and fatal car accidents involving teen drivers are more common during certain times of day and days of the week. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, fatal crashes involving teen drivers were most likely to occur:
- In the evening and at night: Around 20% of crashes occur between 9:00 p.m and midnight. The hours between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. are also dangerous, accounting for 16% of crashes. Overall, 62% of crashes take place between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
- On weekends: 54% of crashes take place on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
- During summer months: The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is sometimes called the “100 deadliest days” for teen drivers. 28% of crashes take place in June, July, and August.
Why Teens May Be Involved in Car Accidents
There are several factors that may affect teen drivers and lead to car crashes, including:
- Inexperience: A teenager may not have had enough time to develop the skills and judgment needed to drive safely at all times. They may have trouble judging speed, distance, road conditions, how much time they need to react, or other factors that may make accidents more likely.
- Distracted Driving: Phones, music, navigation apps, food, and conversations with passengers can all take a teen’s attention away from driving, making them more likely to become involved in a crash.
- Speeding: Teens may drive too fast because they do not appreciate the risks of doing so, because they are running late or for other reasons.
- Passengers: When other teens are in a car, the risks of a crash may increase. Passengers may distract a driver or encourage risky behavior.
- Impaired Driving: Teens may use alcohol, marijuana or other substances that could affect their ability to drive safely. This can be especially dangerous for inexperienced drivers.
Legal Consequences for Teen Drivers
When a teen causes a serious accident, they may face multiple types of consequences in addition to injuries or the possibility of death. A teen may be charged with a traffic violation, and they could be at risk of losing their license. In addition to fines and increased insurance costs, they could even face criminal charges.
Common traffic violations related to accidents include speeding, running red lights, tailgating, and texting while driving. In many cases, these violations may result in traffic tickets and fines. However, if a teen was found to be careless, they could be charged with reckless driving, which may be considered a criminal offense.
Criminal charges may be even more serious if a teen is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Other potential criminal charges may include leaving the scene of an accident, vehicular assault, or vehicular homicide or manslaughter in cases involving fatal accidents.
Criminal defense attorney Michael A. Robinson explains, “A crash involving a teen driver can raise several legal issues at once, including traffic violations, insurance claims, other injury claims, and, in the most serious cases, criminal allegations. A teenager who is charged with a traffic violation or criminal offense will need to determine how to handle their case and avoid consequences that could affect them after they reach adulthood.”
Legal Help After a Car Accident Involving a Teenager
When teens are involved in car crashes, they may need to address traffic violations, criminal charges, and other legal issues. Other people involved may need to determine what steps to take when filing insurance claims or obtaining compensation for their injuries and damages. A skilled attorney can provide guidance on how to proceed in these cases and how to resolve legal issues that may arise.
The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. Readers should not rely solely on the content of this article and are encouraged to seek professional advice tailored to their specific circumstances. We disclaim any liability for any loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of, or reliance on, the information presented.