As a driver, you always face risks on the road. This is why it is helpful to become a defensive driver. Even if you are safe, you could be injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligent mistake. Defensive driving helps you anticipate these mistakes in advance so that you can take steps to avoid a crash.
But because you always face risks from those around you, it is good to know which types of drivers present the largest hazard. Statistically speaking, when looking at fatal car accident rates, studies have found that teenagers cause these accidents more than anyone else. Even though just a very small percentage of drivers on the road are between 16 and 19 years old, they certainly show a propensity for causing serious crashes.
They are inexperienced drivers
As with drivers in any age bracket, these car accidents happen for a variety of reasons. They may include:
- Impaired driving
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Distracted driving
- Driving too fast for the weather conditions
- Running a stop sign or a red light
But the reason that teenagers tend to make these mistakes more often than older drivers is simply their lack of experience. They may not take driving seriously enough, or they may make clear mistakes that older drivers would avoid. As teen drivers grow older and gain more experience, their crash rates tend to go down.
Seeking compensation
Have you been injured in an accident another driver caused? You may deserve financial compensation for lost wages, medical bills and other damages.
