New teen drivers are getting behind the wheel at high school campuses this Fall. While this is an exciting time for these young people, teenage drivers are especially at risk for accidents.
Putting the safety of your teenager and other drivers first before venturing out for a ride helps everyone in our area. Lopez Franco, PLLC, knows that your priority as a parent is to ensure your teen driver arrives home safely. Here are some tips to do just that.
What Causes Teens To Be At A Higher Risk Of Accidents While Driving?
Teen drivers often lack the necessary experience to operate a motor vehicle effectively. The mechanics of driving can be learned with relative quickness. However, it is the anticipation that comes with years of driving experience that cannot be replicated in a driver’s education course.
More experienced drivers have observed traffic patterns repeated many times over the course of their years of driving. This repetition enables a more experienced driver to avoid potential problems behind the wheel. Many, if not most, accidents are avoidable. Gaining experience driving will help to minimize the risk of accidents, but it will not help your teenage driver this Fall.
Distracted Driving Creates Ample Opportunity For Car Accidents
The average teenager has their mind in a multitude of places simultaneously. Prioritizing roadway safety may not be their most pressing concern when behind the wheel. Phones, the radio, other drivers, and even their passengers may put your teenager in a position of extreme distraction.
Helping your teen to take seriously the responsibility that comes with driving is a key factor in eliminating distractions. It is common for a driver to allow their focus to wane after becoming more comfortable behind the wheel. However, just because something is common does not mean it is good. Instead, by encouraging your child to take the responsibility of driving seriously, it becomes less likely that they will shift their attention away from the road.
What To Do If Your Teen Is Involved In An Accident
When your teen is in a car accident, it is critical to first check on the safety of your teen and the other people involved. Depending upon whether your child is at fault for having caused the accident, it may be necessary to contact a Houston car accident attorney.
Teenagers may need more time to consider what happened in the accident. When a car insurance company reaches out to your teen for a statement as to what happened, will he or she be able to provide an accurate assessment? Instead of contacting an insurance company first, consider consulting with an experienced Houston car accident attorney.
Contact Lopez Franco, PLLC, Today For Guidance
In A Teen Driver AccidentTeenage drivers need an advocate when they are involved in a motor vehicle accident. Especially after suffering an injury, be sure to contact an attorney who is familiar with the unique aspects of a teen driver accident. Lopez Franco, PLLC, offers free consultations for parents who want the best in legal representation for their child.