Research Shows Teens are Most Likely to be Involved in a Distracted Driving Crash

January 15, 2013

The day your teenager first gets his or her license is a scary moment for any parent. Unfortunately, in many cases that fear is warranted, as statistics show teen drivers account for a disproportionate number of accidents in Utah and across the country. In the U.S., teenagers account for 7 percent of all motorists on the road -- however, data from AAA shows that 20 percent of the fatal accidents in the country involve a teenager behind the wheel.

One of the factors common to many teen motor vehicle accidents is distractions -- often involving cellphones or GPS devices. In recent years, nationwide efforts have increased to curb the number of distracted drivers on the road. Unfortunately, these bad habits can be difficult to break among teenagers who are used to having a cellphone in hand at all times.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teenage drivers are the demographic most likely to be distracted at the time of an accident. The NHTSA has reported that 11 percent of teen drivers were distracted when they were involved in fatal accidents.

While teenagers reportedly are the most likely to be distracted when involved in a crash, other demographics are also at fault, possibly influencing the teens' behaviors. According to a Pew study, 40 percent of teenagers in the United States report that they have been a passenger in a vehicle when the driver dangerously used a cellphone when behind the wheel.

Consequently, it is critical to discuss these statistics and safety tips with teenagers before they are allowed to get behind the wheel. Some parents opt to instruct their teenagers to turn off their phone when they get behind the wheel. Others may suggest the use of a "designated texter" -- a friend who takes responsibility for responding to messages on the driver's phone while he or she is behind the wheel.

Distracted driving accidents in Utah

Distracted driving accidents led to almost 3,100 fatalities and approximately 416,000 personal injuries across the country in 2010. In response to these grim statistics, many states have enacted legislation prohibiting certain types of common distractions.

In Utah, all drivers are banned from sending text messages while behind the wheel. This prohibition is critical, as a Virginia Tech study revealed that texting drivers are 23 times more likely to be involved in an accident than drivers who are not distracted. Between 2006 and 2010, there were six fatalities in Utah due to a driver texting behind the wheel, according to the Utah Highway Patrol.

Utah law also includes distraction in the definition of careless driving. A driver is considered careless if he or she is distracted by a handheld cellphone while behind the wheel.

For those who have been involved in an auto accident caused by a distracted driver, it is important to ensure your rights are protected. Consulting with a knowledgeable Utah personal injury attorney will ensure just compensation is received following the crash.

Article provided by Feller & Wendt, LLC
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