Texas parents are often simultaneously proud and worried when their children get their driver’s licenses. The worry comes with good reason.
Summertime driving
Driving in the summer is more dangerous for everyone, but it’s especially risky for teens. More people are on vacation and on the roads. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day are also considered the 100 deadliest days of summer for younger drivers.
Distractions
Distracted driving is one of the biggest risks to teen drivers. Cell phone use for calls, text messaging, social media and selfies can increase the risk of a terrible car accident occurring. Although some teens are more responsible, around 40 to 50% of younger drivers have at least admitted to texting while driving.
Other teens as passengers
Teen drivers having their friends in their vehicle significantly increases their risk of an accident. There are different reasons for this: one, teens may be too engaged in conversation with their passengers and lose concentration on the road. Two, multiple teens in the vehicle can result in rowdiness that might otherwise not happen if the driver was alone.
Speeding
Teens have a sense of invincibility that adults usually lack. As a result, they might put the pedal to the metal and speed. Unfortunately, speeding is one of the biggest risks for teen drivers. At higher speeds, it’s harder to control the vehicle and stop when danger is nearby. Males are more likely to engage in this risky driving behavior.
Driving under the influence
Even though they are not yet of legal age to drink, many teens get their hands on alcohol. This can lead to driving under the influence if they have their vehicle with them. It’s one of the biggest risks to teen drivers in terms of a crash.
Inexperience
Teen drivers are inexperienced, so that puts them at risk of accidents. As new drivers, they’re more likely to make mistakes and show poor judgment.
