Tragic Example that Teens Should Slow it Down and Turn it Down

Good Samaritans were unable to revive a 17-year-old girl who died from injuries sustained in a single-vehicle accident on N.C. 150.  Four others in the vehicle, the 17-year-old driver and three children under 5-years of age where taken to the hospital with non-threatening injuries.

 A Chevy Blazer left the road coming out of a curve and landed in a steep ditchbank.  The top of the SUV was caved in, suggesting it had rolled. It also hit a utility pole before coming to a stop on a homeowner's front yard. The deceased teen was found on the ground 100 feet from the vehicle.  The homeowner said she heard loud music blaring from the vehicle.  Speed may also have been a factor.

 This auto accident is not only a reminder that speed and distracted driving can kill, but also why many states have imposed tougher requirements on young drivers by requiring three stages of licensing — learner's permit, intermediate stage, and full license — and set 16 as the earliest age for entry into the learner's permit process.  These restrictions are part of a continued effort to save lives and minimize distractions for teen drivers.

Researchers found that teens have a higher risk of auto accidents and are 2 1/2 times as likely as adults to be in a crash. The risks increase when teens have other passengers in the car, especially other teens. The graduated system helps young drivers by limiting these high risk driving situations, increasing adult supervision and extending the educational requirements of the novice driver.

 It is important to keep re-enforcing safe driving habits with your teen.  This includes understanding the importance of adhering to the speed limit, avoiding distractions while driving, and how to respond to situations on the road without panicking.  Unfortunately, a parent has no way of knowing if their teen will always follow these rules once they leave the house. Nor can they control the actions of other drivers. Having proper insurance coverage is another way to protect your teen. Talk with your insurance agent about various options and be aware of your state’s requirements.

Lawsuit Financial encourages everyone to help our young drivers become conscientious and safe drivers. We understand that even the most responsible driver may find themselves in an auto accident. If you or a loved one is seriously injured or killed in an automobile accident at no fault of your own, you may be able to recover damages for medical bills, loss wages, and pain and suffering. It is important to contact an attorney who specializes in these types of cases. Worried about paying bills and meeting other financial obligations? Lawsuit funding is a valuable service that offers a better solution than settling your valuable personal injury lawsuit for less than it is worth.