Understand the importance of promoting teen driver safety.
As summer vacation begins for teenagers across Oklahoma, it's crucial to raise awareness about the potential risks they face on the road. While fun under the sun may be their primary focus, statistics show that Oklahoma teens are at a greater risk of serious and fatal car accidents in the summer. According to a recent report by Bumper.com, nearly 40% of teen driver fatalities in Oklahoma occur during the summer months.
The Summer Danger Zone
The Bumper.com report reveals that Oklahoma's teen driver fatality rate stands at 4.04 per 10,000 licensed drivers, positioning the state somewhere in the middle compared to others. However, the summer months remain particularly hazardous for young drivers in Oklahoma and states across the nation. Memorial Day through Labor Day marks the "100 Deadliest Days" as approximately 260 teens lose their lives in car crashes each month during this period, as reported by WeSaveLives.org.
Understanding the Risk Factors
To effectively address the issue of teen driver fatalities, it is essential to recognize the contributing risk factors. Some of the most common factors that contribute to the summer spike in teen driver fatalities include:
- Speeding: Excitement and peer pressure often lead young drivers to exceed speed limits. However, this reduces their ability to react quickly and make informed decisions, significantly increasing the severity of accidents and the likelihood of fatal outcomes.
- Distracted Driving: The prevalence of smartphones poses a serious threat to teen drivers' safety. Constant phone use behind the wheel diverts their attention from the road, making them vulnerable to dangerous situations. Texting and driving, in particular, is a form of distraction that puts both the driver and others at risk.
- Lack of Experience: Newly licensed teen drivers often lack the necessary experience to navigate challenging driving conditions. Unfamiliar roads and unexpected hazards can overwhelm inexperienced drivers, making them more susceptible to accidents.
- Impaired Driving: Experimentation with drugs and alcohol, peer pressure, and a lack of awareness about the consequences of impaired driving can lead some teenagers to make the mistake of driving under the influence. Impaired judgment and coordination from substance use contribute to serious accidents, regardless of the driver's age.
- Neglecting Seatbelts: Many teen drivers fail to buckle up regularly, jeopardizing their lives. Seatbelts serve as a critical safety measure, preventing ejection from the vehicle and reducing the risk of contact with hard surfaces inside and outside the vehicle. By neglecting to wear seat belts, teens increase their chances of sustaining severe injuries or fatalities in accidents.
How a car accident lawyer can help
Navigating the aftermath of a teen driver accident can be an overwhelming experience. The injuries sustained in these crashes can be severe and life-altering, leading to significant medical expenses, ongoing rehabilitation, and other losses.
At Lawter & Associates Attorneys at Law PLLC, our car accident attorneys understand the difficulties crash victims face. Our legal team knows that every case is unique, and we will tailor our approach to fit your specific needs while fighting for justice and the compensation you deserve
To learn more about how we can help you, contact us today for a free case evaluation. We have offices located in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.