Nashville Automobile Accident Lawyer Discusses The Problem Of Teen Drivers and Cell Phones
Teen Driving Limitations
Although it will be hard to enforce, as an experienced Tennessee automobile accident lawyer, I support legislation that will make it an offense for a teen driver (16-18) to use a cell phone while driving. Using s cell phone while driving is a distraction. Distracted drivers cause 80% of automobile accidents nationwide. Recent studies show that talking while driving, even with a hands-free phone interferes with our ability to focus more than being above the legal limit for alcohol consumption.
A bill pending in the Pennsylvania legislature would ban any form of cell phone use if the driver is between the ages 16-18. Younger drivers, according to the Governor’s Highway Safety Association (GHSA), the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA), and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), have the highest crash risk of any age group.
Per mile, the crash rate for 16 year-old drivers is 10 times the rate for drivers between 30 and 59. The basic reasons behind this statistic are obvious. Teen drivers have no experience with the myriad issues faced by drivers with experience, furthermore they are immature and often takes risks, most often speeding, which contribute to the increased death rate. Add to those numbers a cell phone distraction and you have serious trouble brewing.
In addition to laws, safety experts agree that parents also play a key role in helping teens become good drivers. Parents should not rely solely on drivers education classes to teach good driving habits and should restrict night driving, restrict the numbers of passengers riding with their teen, supervise practice driving, always require use of seat belts and choose vehicles for safety, not image. Parents can also set a good example by practicing safe driving techniques themselves.
As an experienced Nashville automobile accident lawyer I have seen far too many teen deaths and I strongly encourage parents to be realistic about the skills and propensities of their children.
If you or a loved is injured in a Nashville or Tennessee automobile accident caused by a teen driver contact the experienced Nashville automobile accident lawyers at Phillip Miller & Associates and take advantage of a free consultation to learn about your rights and remedies.
Phillip Miller is a Tennessee Accident Attorney specializing in
Phillip has an AVVO rating of 10.0 (Superb), has been designated as a “Superlawyer”, and is the President Elect of the Tennessee Association for Justice.
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