100 Most Influential Lawyers in America – the National Law Journal

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100 Most Influential Lawyers in America
– the National Law Journal

Addressing the risks and dangers for teen drivers

On Behalf of | Jan 24, 2025 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

All California drivers were new to the road at some point. Most began driving when they were teens. The responsibilities and dangers are often lost on young drivers. They are excited at the newfound freedom granted them and might be unaware of the possible risks they face.

Parents are advised to encourage their young drivers to adhere to the law and act in a safe and responsible manner. However, since teens are still developing, it is inevitable that they will make mistakes when on the road. Some of these missteps will place them and others in danger.

Being aware of common teen driving errors could prevent some of them from happening. Still, some accidents are unavoidable and people who are involved in a crash either as a teen driver or because of one must be aware of how they can address the problems they will face in the aftermath.

California’s Start Smart program for new drivers

To help parents and their teen drivers be as safe as possible when they are on the road, California has a Start Smart program. Its objective is to give parents and teens tools to avoid accidents. Teens between 15 and 19 can take part in these courses at a California Highway Patrol office.

The course lets teens know the dangerous behaviors that can lead to crashes. That includes distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, and even interacting with passengers. The fundamentals are a primary focus including the simple, life-saving act of wearing a seatbelt.

Statistically, it is understandable that law enforcement wants to get to teens early. The most common way in which teens age 16 to 19 lose their lives is in an auto accident. They are in the greatest jeopardy within one to two years of having their license.

Graduated Driver’s Licenses can give teens time to learn

In California, there is a Graduated Driver’s License Program. With GDL, the teen needs to be 15 and one-half years old to get a learner’s permit. They need to drive for 50 hours, 10 of which must be at night, within six months of getting their restricted license when they turn 16. They cannot drive without supervision from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. This is because the chance of an accident increases exponentially overnight. They are not allowed to have passengers younger than 20 unless there is a licensed driver at least 25 in the vehicle.

There are many risky activities that teens can partake in behind the wheel. Simply having a passenger is one. Having a single passenger doubles the chance of the teen dying in a crash. Two passengers increase the danger by 158%. It is 207% higher with three passengers. Parents who think they are simply letting their teen drive back and forth to school need to be aware of these numbers before handing over the keys.

Naturally, parents must be vigilant in emphasizing proper safety to their teens as they take to the road. People who share the road with young and inexperienced drivers must also know the behaviors and statistics for teen accidents as the collisions often cause injuries and death to others.

An auto accident can lead to severe injuries, the inability to work, the need for long-term care and questions about the future. In some cases, they result in fatalities. People who were hurt in a crash with a teen or in any other circumstance need to know they have options. Having experienced and professional help can be key with determining a path forward.