In Tennessee and across the nation, young drivers can present a challenge in road safety. While teen drivers usually possess excellent reflexes, sharp vision and acute hearing, they might not use good judgment, thinking they know more than they actually do. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 2,000 drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 died in accident-related fatalities across the nation in 2011. This is an increase of nearly 20 deaths, or one percent, from 2010. In addition, 180,000 young people suffered injuries in crashes in 2011.
One doctor and professor with Vanderbilt Emergency Medicine gave road safety tips on preventing car accidents for young drivers. First, she emphasized that drivers shouldn’t text on the road. While this can apply to adults, teens generally seem more focused than grown-ups when it comes to staying connected via technology. Second, they shouldn’t drink and drive. In 2012, almost 10,000 people of all ages lost their lives in alcohol-related car accidents in this nation.
Third, always buckle up and enable airbags. Just over three out of four people ejected from a vehicle in a crash will die. In 2010, if everyone over the age of 4 had put on their seatbelt, 3,000 lives would have been saved in crashes. Fourth, drivers should keep a safe distance between themselves and the car in front of them. Space distances of about three seconds should allow enough time for a an emergency stop, although that space will need to increase in inclement weather. Finally, drivers should focus on the road and avoid distractions.
If someone is the victim of a negligent driver, they might wonder if they have any legal recourse. A personal injury attorney might be able to help clients pursue financial compensation.
Source: Epoch Times, “Top 5 Survival Rules for Young Drivers“, Paul Darin, September 25, 2013