Thousands of teenage drivers hit the road every year for the very first time. Due largely to their inexperience, teen drivers are statistically much more likely to get into car accidents than older motorists. For that reason, their licenses are often restricted to some degree.
Driving with a Restricted License | Junior Operator’s License
In Massachusetts, first time drivers are permitted to operate a vehicle under what is known as a Junior Operator’s License. This type of restricted licensure is designed to protect teenage drivers, and their passengers, until they gain enough driving experience to be able to operate a motor vehicle safely. The restrictions associated with a Junior Operator’s License prevent drivers under the age of 18 from driving with a passenger who is also under the age of 18. Exceptions to this requirement are available, but only apply if one of the passengers is a family member, or are over 21 and are licensed to drive themselves.
Teen Driving— Disproportionate Number of Accidents
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) collects and analyzes data related to numerous topics, including teenage drivers. According to the CDC, teenage drivers account for 30% of all automobile accidents even though they only comprise 14% of the entire population. These statistics clearly show that teens and young adults are far more likely to be in injurious or fatal car accidents than the average person, making them a huge liability for both other drivers and their insurance companies.
Why are Teens Riskier Drivers?
The highest risk factors that cause teens to have a higher incidence of car accident include:
- Teens are more likely to drive at higher speeds.
- Teens do not use seatbelts with the same frequency as older drivers.
- Teens have a higher incidence of driving under the influence.
All of these issues combine to make teen driving a very risky proposition that should be of concern to their parents, their communities and, most of all, themselves.
Buckle Up Your Teen for Increased Safety
If you’re concerned about the higher frequency of teen driving accidents, then you might be wondering what the best way to deal with this problem is. Like most teen issues, the best way to solve the problem of dangerous teen driving is through parental involvement. In addition to always trying to set a good example by driving safely, parents of teen drivers should put a strong emphasis on seat belt use. Proper seat belt use is integral in preventing car related injuries like whiplash, and can help both your teen and their passengers remain safe.
Get the Best Representation for Teen Driving Accidents
It’s an unfortunate fact that teen driving accidents are a common occurrence. Because accidents involving teens are so common, insurance companies will often resist paying out the full amount due. If your teen has been involved in a teen driving accident, then you need the expert representation of Attorney Peter Ventura. We will represent you and your teen driver to the best of our abilities to get you the result you deserve.
Contact us today so that we can get started fighting for you.
Image via Flickr by Pete
