Like everyone else behind the wheel, young drivers face a wide variety of risks when it comes to driving. Inclement weather, the recklessness of others and many other factors contribute to the large number of auto collisions that occur each year. However, there are a number of risk factors that are especially concerning when it comes to motor vehicle collisions that are caused by teen drivers. It is pivotal for young drivers (and their parents) to recognize these dangers and do everything they can to prevent yet another accident from taking place.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has outlined several of the most prevalent causes of motor vehicle collisions involving teen drivers. For example, driving without very much experience is linked to many of these crashes, as well as intoxication and operating a vehicle at night. Fatigue is another significant concern, and many young drivers fail to get sufficient sleep because of difficulties related to their education (such as studying for a difficult test) or their social lives.
Distracted driving is another major concern when it comes to motor vehicle crashes involving teen drivers. Many teens use their cell phones frequently and some are unable to resist the urge to check their device when they are operating a vehicle. This can interfere with their ability to abide by traffic laws and watch out for other vehicles on the road. From cell phones to eating and changing the radio station, there are many sources of distraction that can get in the way of a teen’s ability to focus on driving.