South Florida Personal Injury Lawyers Blog
According to the Centers for Disease Control (“CDC”), motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of death for teenagers. Further, the Florida Department of Transportation (“FDOT”) reports that teen-related accidents dramatically increase between the “100 Deadliest Days”, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Approximately seven teenagers die because of motor vehicle crashes every day. These harrowing statistics highlight the importance of equipping teenagers with the skills to operate their vehicles safely.
The CDC reports that the risk of motor vehicle accidents is highest among teens between 16 and 19 years old. This age group is three times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident. Data indicates that the accident death rate for male drivers is over two times higher than the fatality rate for similarly aged female motorists. Further, the presence of teenage passengers increases the likelihood of an accident.
Naturally, inexperience is one of the main reasons teenagers are more likely to be involved in a fatal Florida car accident. However, other factors that put teenagers at risk include nighttime and weekend driving, lack of seatbelt use, distracted driving, impairment, and speeding. For instance, national news reports indicated that the Sheriff’s Office charged a 17-year-old driver with vehicular homicide for driving 151 mph in a crash that took the lives of six people. The driver posted videos of himself and asked viewers to guess his speed for a prize. During his escapade, he slammed his BMW into an SUV carrying six people leaving their jobs at a local farm. Further, law enforcement believes the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the accident.
While the ultimate power to avoid a crash lies in the hands of the driver, there are many steps parents and safety officials can take to educate their teens on safe driving. First, imploring the importance of seatbelts can reduce the severity of injuries after an accident. The CDC explains that nearly 50% of teenagers who died in a passenger vehicle accident were not wearing a seat belt. Further, maintaining and enforcing the minimum legal drinking age can prevent impaired driving among teen drivers.
Those who suffer injuries in an accident with a teenager should consult with an attorney to determine their rights and remedies.
Have You Suffered Injuries in a Florida Car Accident?
If you or someone you love has suffered serious injuries or died in a Florida motor vehicle accident, contact the lawyers at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada for assistance with your claim. Our lawyers have extensive experience handling emotionally and procedurally complex accident cases. We have a comprehensive understanding of the various laws that impact liability and recovery. In addition to Florida teen driver accidents, our team handles accidents involving buses, trucks, motorcycles, product liability claims, medical malpractice, and nursing home negligence. Contact our office at 877-448-8585 to schedule a free initial consultation with an attorney on our team.