Young drivers are disproportionately likely to end up in a crash. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes that “the risk of motor vehicle crashes is higher among teens ages 16–19 than among any other age group.” Beyond that, drivers in their early twenties (20 to 24) are the second most likely age group to be involved in crashes. Within this article, our Wisconsin car accident lawyer explains why young drivers can be so dangerous.
1. Inexperience
Safe driving is not second nature. Practice is important. A young driver who has not had much practice behind the wheel is vulnerable to being involved in a crash. Indeed, the single most prominent factor behind the fact that young drivers are more likely to crash is lack of inexperience. Inexperience can be risky for a number of different reasons. Without years of practice, young drivers may struggle with judging distances, reacting quickly to sudden hazards, and adapting to adverse weather conditions or other types of road hazards. Further, a young driver’s limited exposure to different driving situations increases the likelihood of mistakes.
2. Distractibility
Distracted driving is dangerous driving. Of course, any motorist could be distracted while behind the wheel. With that being said, younger drivers are especially susceptible to distractions, including from such as smartphones, music, and even conversations with passengers. Texting or using social media while driving is especially dangerous. It is a big problem for young drivers. Brief moments of inattention can result in accidents—even at relatively modest speeds. It is imperative that young drivers avoid distracted driving. It can result in devastating accidents.
Safety Tip: Parents of teenagers should make sure that they never use their cell phone while behind the wheel. It is one of the best steps that they can take to reduce the risk of a crash.
3. Propensity to Speed
Speeding is another one of the most common reasons why young drivers end up in bad accidents. Speed increases the risk of—and potentially severity of—a crash. It is imperative that all drivers, but especially young drivers with limited experience, avoid speeding. The reality is that many young drivers have a higher tendency to speed due to a mix of excitement, impatience, and a lack of understanding of speed-related risks. Without the experience to handle high-speed situations, they are at a greater risk of losing control of their vehicle.
Note: Young male drivers are at an especially high risk of speeding and engaging in other types of reckless, dangerous driving behavior.
4. Poor Decision-Making
Research shows that people do not truly hit full emotional maturity until they are in their mid-20’s. It is an issue because it means that some young drivers lack strong decision-making skills. While any driver could make a bad (risky) decision while behind the wheel, younger drivers do so at a higher rate. Young drivers often make impulsive decisions behind the wheel, misjudging traffic situations or overestimating their driving skills. Their lack of experience contributes to risky choices, such as abrupt lane changes, running yellow lights, or tailgating. Poor decision-making can lead to avoidable accidents.
5. Peer Pressure
Peer pressure is another serious safety hazard for young drivers. A study cited by the National Institute of Health (NIH) found that teenage drivers are at a significantly higher rate of being involved in a crash when their friends are with them in the vehicle. Many states—including Wisconsin and Minnesota—have developed a comprehensive graduated licensing program to address this risk. When a teenager first gets his or her license, they are generally restricted from driving other young people around. Parents may want to impose additional limitations.
Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler Fights for Justice for Victims and Families
Hurt in a car crash in Wisconsin? You need a top-tier advocate on your side. At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, we provide personalized, justice-focused representation to injured victims and their families. Our firm has the experience to handle all types of young driver accident claims—whether you were hit by a teen or your teenager was involved in a collision. With millions in compensation secured for injured victims, our history of verdicts and settlements tells the story best. You may be eligible to recover compensation for automotive repairs, medical bills, long-term medical costs, loss of wages, pain and suffering, mental distress, and physical impairment.
Contact Our Wisconsin Auto Accident Attorneys for a Free Review of Your Case
At Fitzpatrick, Skemp & Butler, LLC, our Wisconsin auto accident attorneys are strong, experienced advocates for the injured and the disabled. It is our mission to help clients secure the absolute maximum compensation after a bad traffic collision. Give us a phone call now or connect with us directly online for a no cost, no obligation initial case review. With offices in Eau Claire, La Crosse, and Onalaska, we represent injured victims throughout the region in Minnesota and Wisconsin.