TX teen drivers can take steps to avoid increased summer road risks

Baytown accident attorneys note that AAA (American Automobile Association) states that the 100 days that run between Memorial Day and Labor Day present the most risks of fatal injury to teen drivers. Around 400 teen drivers die on our roads during the summer months on average, compared to about 340 during the school year.

Some of the heightened accident risk for teen drivers, compared to older drivers, is ascribed to lower seat belt usage. Wider cell phone usage while driving and a greater incidence of texting while driving are some of the other factors contributing to the large number of fatal summer crashes among teen drivers.

The Baytown accident attorneys at Denena & Points understand that teens want to enjoy their summers, that wonderful part of the year when they’re generally free from the burdens of school and able to spend more quality time with friends and family. But as you enjoy your summer, we urge you to be mindful of your safety and your future. A few small steps and extra safety precautions could help you ensure your chances of avoiding dangerous road accidents and of fulfilling your important future plans.

• Don’t text while driving, and don’t read or respond to others’ texts. Real friends interested in communicating with you won’t want to endanger your life. They’ll wait for you to be safely parked and off the road.

• Don’t drive impaired. Alcohol dulls the mind and the reflexes. Drinkers’ decisions aren’t reliable and their reflexes are just as impaired. Alcohol or drug consumption increases your chances of causing an accident, and substantially reduces your chances of being able to avoid a wreck.
• Be up-to-date on car maintenance. Check the tire for air, and check their inflation level. Make sure that your car has the proper amount of coolant and oil. Don’t head off on long road trips with a near-empty gas tank.

Get a good night’s sleep so that you don’t face the dangers of drowsy driving.

Our Baytown accident attorneys caution that drowsy driving, distracted driving, and driving impaired are among the dangers that all drivers face. Teen drivers experienced increased risks in part due to their lack of long-term experience behind the wheel.

So take sensible safety precautions. Your extra attention to your own safety could help you ensure your chances of experiencing a long and fulfilling future.

You can also learn about what to do if you or a friend experiences a wreck while out on the road. Download from this web page our Baytown accident attorneys’ free book on the essential steps you need to take to protect your rights and interests following a serious Houston wreck.