Nothing kills more teens between 16-19 than auto accidents. According to the CDC, in 2017, 2,364 American teens between 16-19 died in auto accidents. Roughly another 300,000 treated in emergency departments for injuries suffered in auto accidents. As a result, on average nationwide, that means six teens aged 16-19 died every day due to motor vehicle crashes, with hundreds more injured. It’s estimated that a Missouri teen is killed or injured in a car accident about every 43 minutes. That’s not a statistic anyone should just accept. Many of those crashes could be prevented. Further, government statistics indicate that 80 percent of crashes involve some form of distracted driving – talking on a cell phone, texting, eating or paying attention to the back seat instead of the road.

Teens and Auto Accidents – 5 Reasons Why They Happen

1.) Driver inexperience

2.) Distracted driving

3.) Speeding

4.) Using illegal substances

5.) Taking unnecessary risks

These are all areas that parents can influence by setting a good example, talking to their teens about auto accidents, and reinforcing safe driving rules. The Governors Highway Safety Association indicates that every adult in a teen’s life should play a role in encouraging the young driver to make safe driving decisions. Coaches, teachers and employers can all join with parents in helping to encourage teenagers to think carefully about how to be a safer and more effective driver. Never hesitate to seek legal advice if your teen is involved an auto accident despite these efforts.

Contact Us Today

If you, your teen, another family member, or friend have found yourself in the unfortunate position of being involved in an auto accident feel free to contact us or call us at (573)686-2459. We are here for you when you need us.