Teen Drivers Are Four Times More Likely To Be Involved In a Car Accident According to CDC

By Daryl K. Jones
Article Sponsored by Heidari Law Group

Los Angeles, California – /News Reported by LaGuardia Media and Public Relations/ – Young drivers make up only 5% of the licensed driving population in the nation, yet drivers ages 16-24 accounted for 8.1% of those involved in fatal crashes nationally, according to the Department of Transportation . This marks a dangerous trend of young drivers being excessively involved in (or the cause of) car accidents which has been escalating since 2022.

Teen drivers, especially in their first year of driving, are at a disproportionately high risk of crashing, and are more likely to be involved in at-fault collisions. The CDC seems to agree with the findings of the Department of Transportation, stating in a post on their website that young drivers ( ages 16-19) are four times more likely to be involved in a car accident than older drivers. Some national data shows that drivers under 18 are involved in about 7% of all car accident deaths involving those under 18. This is another exceptionally high number. There are some cases in which the drivers were underaged and unlicensed, causing the parents to be held responsible not only in civil proceedings, but criminally, as well.

Criminal Liability

It is important to note that criminal liability for parents is not automatic and is often rare in car accidents, with most cases involving civil liability for damages. However, when a case involves negligent entrustment (the parent knowingly allows an unlicensed or unsuitable child to drive), direct knowledge and inaction, or willful misconduct, criminal charges can be brought against the parents, especially if there is a death involved. Laws on parental liability are complex and vary by location. It is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can provide tailored advice and help you understand your legal options, potential liabilities, or compensation that is owed to you.

Common Causes of Accidents/Injuries Involving Young Drivers

In the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day there is often an increase in deadly teen crashes, simply because more teenagers are on the road. Nighttime and weekend driving, not using a seatbelt, distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving are all some of the common risk factors, or behaviors that cause injury or death on the road. Results from the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey revealed that 16.7% of U.S. high school students rode with a driver who had been drinking alcohol at least once during the 30 days before the survey, making this a major societal concern.

Personal Injury Claims

“Some of these accidents can result in catastrophic injury”, explains Sam Ryan Heidari, founder of Heidari Law Group. “Catastrophic injuries are those that are severe enough to have lifelong effects. Accident injuries, especially those that are caused by a third party’s negligence should be compensated right away.” It is highly recommended to consult a personal injury attorney with a proven track record if you have been injured in any accident, but especially one where there is a minor involved, as there may be special considerations. Parents can be held liable and will most likely be involved with the negotiation process, if it gets that far. First, there must be proof of liability in the first place. Hiring a lawyer to help file and litigate a personal injury claim will ensure that you determine liability and receive compensation that is fair and just.

Heidari Law Group has over 10 locations throughout California and Nevada serving Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Irvine, Fresno, Bakersfield, and Sacramento. Heidari Law Group is an award-winning law firm specializing in personal injury, car accidents, wrongful death, and employment and labor law.

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