Florida is already considered to be one of the most dangerous states for drivers. An even more alarming fact is that a total of 63,916 teenagers were involved in car accidents in 2017. These collisions resulted in 15,718 injuries and 146 deaths. While the stats might appear grim, there are things both teenagers and parents can do to minimize the long-term consequences. We put together an essential car accident guide to help you get through the challenging situation.
What is the most common type of crash of teenagers?
The most common cause of car accidents for drivers between 16 and 21 is hitting a fixed object such as a guide rail, trees, embankments, or utility poles. This is often a result of inexperience, distractions such as texting and driving, and intoxication.
What percent of 16-year-olds get in car accidents?
The exact percentage cannot be calculated with certainty because not all collisions result in car accident compensation claims. However, the number is on a steady rise, with an increase of 5.84% from 2016 to 2017.
What do you do when a teenager gets into a car accident?
First things first, check everyone involved for injuries. If someone is seriously injured, do not move them, but call 911 to help everyone get the medical assistance and get you to safety. If you were at the scene of the accident with a teen driver, write down the license plate numbers if multiple vehicles were involved. Make sure to ask for a copy of the accident report and that it includes the officer’s name and contact information.
You will also want to take as many photos and videos of the damages and the scene of the accident. If possible, document the surroundings as well, including crossroads, street signs, directions vehicles were traveling, and every other detail that might be useful later on. It might be difficult to remember all of these details even a few hours after the accident. If there were witnesses at the time of the accident, write down their names and phone numbers.
Remind your teens not to discuss blame. They should avoid saying it was their fault or the fault of the other drivers involved. In fact, they should not engage with the other driver besides exchanging the insurance information such as their name, contact information, and the insurance company.
It is also crucial that you do not sign any paperwork provided by the other driver’s attorneys and the insurance company. This will be handled by your insurance company.
If you’re a parent of a teen who has been hurt in an accident or injured someone else due to reckless driving, ask for a car accident lawyer free consultation. Insurance companies will do everything in their power to avoid paying full compensation on accident claims and having a personal injury attorney by your side will greatly affect your chances of winning your case. This is especially true for car accidents involving teens, as most insurance companies will try and use their inexperience against them.
Feel free to contact lawyer Dan Zohar who will help you and guide you through the entire insurance claim.
If you have more questions regarding car accidents, call us today on our toll-free number (800) 963-3311.