NHTSA on Risks Facing Teen Drivers in 2022

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has a ton of great resources for parents of teen drivers. If your teen is driving or getting ready to drive, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some of the most common risk factors associated with teen car accidents. At this time, the NHTSA has data on six issues that can increase the risk of teens getting into injury causing or potentially fatal car crashes.

Risk Factors for Teen Car Crashes

  • Distracted Driving
  • Peer Passengers
  • Speeding
  • Drunk and Drugged Driving
  • Not Wearing Seat Belts
  • Drowsy Driving  

Distracted Driving  

Distracted driving is a problem for drivers of all ages, but data shows that teen drivers are especially at risk. Talk to your teens about distracted driving. Obviously, texting is one of the more common types of distracted driving, but distractions can take many forms.  

Peer Passengers  

The more passengers in your teen’s vehicle, the more likely they are to get into a crash. Peer passengers can be distracting, and can contribute to a less safe environment for the teen driver.  

Speeding  

Speeding is another dangerous factor facing teens behind the wheel. speeding is a significant contributing factor to injury causing and fatal crashes involving teens and drivers of all ages.  

Drunk Driving and Drugs 

Drunk and drugged driving is also a problem with this age group. Teens may be starting to go to parties or experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Talk to your teen drivers about the importance of never getting behind the wheel after taking drugs or alcohol.  

Seat Belts  

Buckling up is the single most effective way to protect yourself in the event of a crash. Make sure your teen knows that it’s a non-negotiable rule that goes along with the privilege of driving. Always set a good example by buckling up too.  

Drowsy Driving  

Finally, drowsy driving has been identified as a risk factor associated with teen car crashes. We all know that teens can stay up late, and school starts early in the morning, but drowsy driving can be as dangerous as drunk driving. 

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident involving a teen driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.