As the school year winds down and the weather gets nicer, teens are more likely to take to the roadways. As a result, teens are unfortunately more likely to get involved in a deadly car accident during the summer months.
The days between Memorial Day and Labor Day have been referred to as the “hundred deadliest days of summer” for this very reason. According to AAA, from 2011 to 2020, approximately 34% of fatalities in Minnesota accidents involving teen drivers occurred during this 100-day period.
Teens are more likely to engage in negligent driving
Research has shown that teen drivers are more likely to engage in risky or negligent driving behavior than adult drivers. This may be because teenagers lack the experience and maturity that adult drivers often have.
Some of the most common negligent driving behaviors in teens include:
- Failing to abide by posted speed limits or driving at a speed that is unsuitable for the conditions.
- Driving while texting, using social media, talking to passengers and being otherwise distracted.
- Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
- Driving while fatigued.
- Failing to wear a seatbelt.
Parents of teenage drivers should warn their children of the dangers they face every time they drive and remind them to follow all driving laws.
What should I do if I have been in an accident?
If you have been involved in a car accident with a negligent teen driver, you may be able to recover damages from your own insurer without having to prove they were at fault. Minnesota is a no-fault state, meaning that your PIP insurance will cover your medical expenses, lost wages and replacement services, no matter who was at fault for the crash. However, if you have more serious injuries, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the other driver because of your pain and suffering and other damages.
