For teens, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is considered the 100 deadliest days to drive on Kentucky roads and streets throughout the country. Between 2008 and 2018, 8,300 people died in accidents involving teen drivers during this time of the year. According to a representative from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, drivers under the age of 18 are three times as likely to be involved in a crash for each mile that they drive.
Research has indicated that younger drivers tend to engage in a variety of negative habits such as driving faster than the posted speed limit or driving while tired. A study from the AAA Foundation Traffic Safety Culture Index also found that respondents had admitted to driving without wearing a safety belt and while texting. These behaviors can all increase a driver’s risk of getting in an accident regardless of how old they are.
Parents are encouraged to talk with their children about the dangers of impaired or distracted driving. They are also encouraged to model positive driving habits such as paying attention to the road or refraining from cellphone use while a car is in motion. Finally, parents should consider entering into a written agreement with their teen that limits where they can go or what they are allowed to do while driving a car.
Individuals who are hurt in car accidents may experience injuries that take months or years to fully recover from. Those who incur medical bills, miss work or cannot go back to work may be entitled to compensation to pay those bills or recoup lost wages. An attorney may use photos, videos or witness statements to prove that an accident was caused by a driver who was impaired or distracted when it took place.