After 2 years of adaptation, changed plans, struggles and fear over national health challenges in Ohio and across the United States, 2022 is looking relatively normal. In the summer, that includes backyard cookouts, trips to the beach, going to the park, vacations and generally enjoying the warm weather.
However, there are still risks when driving. There are many teen drivers and their lack of experience can lead to auto accidents. People should be aware of this problem.
Memorial Day to Labor Day is high risk on the nation’s roadways
Statistically and anecdotally, Memorial Day to Labor Day is a tough time to be on the road. As school ends and the warm weather hits, it is natural for teens and college-age adults to head out. In 2021 alone, there were 33 fatalities on the road involving teen drivers during this period.
The uptick in collisions is often attributed to distracted driving and it is not just teens who are guilty – it is something everyone is vulnerable to because of the temptation of a cell phone.
From 2017 to 2021, Ohio had more than 64,000 accidents because of distracted driving. Still, it is not just a cell phone that causes distraction. Passengers can divert the driver’s attention from the road and this is often viewed as more prevalent and a bigger problem than the phone.
Overall, there was a rise in Ohio traffic fatalities in 2021 compared with 2020. In 2021, 1,360 people lost their lives; in 2020, it was 1,230. That made 2021 the worst year for road fatalities in the state since 2002 when there were 1,417 fatalities.
Teens’ inexperience is believed to spark accidents as well. They might not know how to adapt to certain situations, fail to brake in time or make mistakes when turning. Of course, speeding is always a worry as is driving under the influence.
Regardless of vigilance and crackdowns, accidents are still likely
Despite campaigns and proposed crackdowns on such issues as distracted driving, recklessness and speeding, teens are still a threat. They must get treatment after an auto accident and to think about the possible long-term ramifications that can impact a person and their family.
This can include physically, emotionally and financially. When there is a collision, knowing how it happened, gathering evidence and pursuing a claim generally requires professional advice. Lives can be dramatically changed or lost when there is a crash and taking immediate action is wise.