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Newly licensed teenage drivers are one of the primary groups at risk of being involved in vehicle accidents. The crash rate per mile driven is about one and a half times higher for 16-year-olds in their first month of driving than for 18- to 19-year-old individuals. Teen drivers are also more likely to underestimate dangerous situations and make errors during decision-making, leading to collisions.
If you or a loved one were harmed in a teen driver car accident in Chattanooga, a vehicle wreck attorney could represent your rights advise you on your available next steps.
Individuals are fully eligible to be licensed drivers when they turn 16 in Chattanooga. However, these drivers also have various requirements that they must follow before getting their state-provided driver’s license. Some of these requirements include the following:
Aside from driving experience, minors must also show proof of U.S. citizenship by providing their birth certificate, social security card, or passport. Additionally, they have to provide proof of any name changes and two proofs of state residency to obtain the license.
Although driver inexperience puts teen drivers at risk, driving with other teenagers in the vehicle, driving at night, distracted driving, drowsy driving, reckless driving, and impaired driving all contribute. Unfortunately, any mistake a teenage driver makes while on the road is more likely than adult drivers to cause injuries to themselves, their passengers, and other motorists.
Teen drivers’ lack of experience also leads to a greater chance of hitting other drivers because of mistakes such as improper lane changes or failures to signal, especially on interstates. Unfortunately, teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in speeding-related vehicle crashes, as well.
Minor teen drivers have far less experience driving in inclement weather and how to handle wet or slippery roads, heavy fog, and more. This situational awareness that most often comes with age is not available to inexperienced and youthful drivers—and it leads to significant increases in accidents caused by the age group. Unfortunately, it is also a way that other Chattanooga drivers will assign fault if a teen driver and another car get into a collision.
Additionally, teen drivers are more likely to drive while intoxicated. Despite the law against consumption for those under 21, around one of four drivers aged 15-20 were intoxicated when killed in fatal car accidents each year.
Accidents that can occur because of a teenager’s inexperience on the road can cause catastrophic harm. Although they have various requirements they must meet to get their licenses, they still pose a risk to themselves and others while driving.
If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a teen driver car accident in Chattanooga, do not hesitate to reach out to an experienced attorney. A dedicated member of the team could investigate your case and provide your best options moving forward. Call today to schedule a private consultation.