Tips For Parents of Teenage Drivers
Tips For Parents of Teenage Drivers: Statistics, Risks, and Legal Implications
As teenagers get their driver’s licenses, they look forward to the freedom and independence that comes with it. However, with this freedom comes great responsibility. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), teenage drivers are more likely to be involved in car accidents than any other age group.
This article explores the risks and legal implications of teenage driving in Texas and provides helpful tips for parents of teenage drivers.
Statistics on Teenage Driving in Texas
Teenage drivers are responsible for a significant number of car accidents in Texas. In 2020, there were 314,886 total crashes involving motor vehicles in Texas. Of those, 67,648 involved drivers under the age of 21. In those accidents, 441 people were killed, and 4,223 were seriously injured.
Furthermore, TxDOT reports that in 2020, there were 119,885 crashes in Texas involving drivers under the age of 25, resulting in 748 deaths and 6,343 serious injuries. The risk of being involved in a car accident is highest for 16-year-olds, who are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers between the ages of 20 and 24.
Risks Associated with Teenage Driving
Several factors contribute to the higher risk of car accidents among teenage drivers. These include:
- Inexperience: Teenage drivers lack experience and are less able to recognize and react to potential hazards on the road.
- Distracted driving: Many teenage drivers are easily distracted by friends, cell phones, or other devices while driving, which increases the risk of an accident.
- Speeding: Teenage drivers are more likely to speed and engage in other risky driving behaviors.
- Impaired driving: Teenagers are more likely to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Legal Implications of Teenage Driving Accidents
When teenage drivers are involved in a car accident, they may face legal consequences. In Texas, a teenage driver who causes an accident may be liable for damages and injuries. If the accident resulted in a fatality, the driver could face criminal charges, including manslaughter or vehicular homicide.
Parents of teenage drivers may also face legal consequences if their child causes an accident. Under Texas law, parents can be held liable for their child’s actions if they knew or should have known that their child was likely to engage in the activity that caused the accident.
Tips for Parents of Teenage Drivers
Parents are essential in helping their teenagers become safe and responsible drivers. Here are some tips for parents of teenage drivers:
- Enroll your teen in a driver education course to teach them the rules of the road and safe driving techniques.
- Limit your teen’s driving to daytime hours until they gain more experience.
- Prohibit your teen from using their cell phone or other devices while driving.
- Emphasize the importance of wearing seat belts and obeying speed limits and other traffic laws.
- Consider installing a tracking device on your teen’s car to monitor their driving habits.
As a parent, it’s natural to feel anxious when your teenager starts driving. While it’s an exciting milestone for your child, it also comes with much responsibility. As a parent, it’s your responsibility to ensure your child is safe on the road and follows the laws and regulations set by the state of Texas.
By following these tips and taking an active role in their teenager’s driving education, parents can help reduce the risk of car accidents involving teenage drivers.
Here are some tips for parents of teenage drivers to help keep their children safe on the road:
Texas Teenage Drivers
Texas has specific laws and regulations that apply to teenage drivers. It’s important to understand these laws and ensure your child follows them. In Texas, teenagers must hold a learner’s permit for six months before obtaining a provisional driver’s license. The state also has a graduated driver licensing (GDL) program that places restrictions on teenage drivers, such as limiting the number of passengers and the hours they can drive.
Driver’s Education Programs
Driver’s education programs are an excellent way for teenage drivers to learn safe driving practices. Texas requires teenage drivers to complete a driver’s education program before obtaining a driver’s license. Different types of driver’s education programs are available, including classroom instruction, online courses, and behind-the-wheel training.
Safe Driving Tips for Teenagers
Safe driving is crucial for teenage drivers. As a parent, you can encourage safe driving behavior by setting a good example and discussing safe driving practices with your child. Ensure your child understands the dangers of distracted driving and other dangerous behaviors, such as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Young drivers can benefit from additional tips, such as avoiding peer pressure and being responsible passengers. Ensure your child understands the dangers of getting into a car with someone drinking or using drugs.
Parental Liability of Teenage Drivers
Parents can be held liable for accidents caused by their teenage drivers. To minimize your liability, it’s essential to ensure your child is properly insured and follows the laws and regulations set by the state.
Car Insurance for Teenage Drivers
Car insurance can be expensive for teenage drivers. To reduce costs, consider adding your child to your existing policy or look for discounts that may be available. Encourage your child to maintain good grades, as many insurance companies offer discounts for students with high GPAs.
Accident Prevention Techniques
Preventing accidents is crucial for teenage drivers. Ensure your child understands the importance of defensive driving and avoiding dangerous situations. Please encourage your child to be aware of their surroundings and always to wear a seatbelt.
Mistakes Young Drivers Make
Young drivers often make mistakes on the road. As a parent, you can help your child avoid these mistakes by discussing them and encouraging safe driving practices. Some common teen driving mistakes:
- Speeding
- Not wearing a seatbelt
- Texting while driving
Has Your Teenager Been Involved in a Car Accident? Call us.
Remember, if you or your child has been injured in a car accident that is not entirely their fault, it’s essential to contact our personal injury lawyers as soon as possible. The attorneys at Varghese Summersett have the experience and expertise to handle even the most complex car accident cases.
Our experienced team of attorneys can help you understand your legal rights and responsibilities as a parent of a teenage driver. Contact us today at 817-207-4878 or schedule a consultation on our website.
If you have any questions or concerns or need additional tips for parents of teenage drivers, don’t hesitate to contact us.
FAQ on Texas Teenage Drivers: Laws, Statistics, Tips
What is the minimum age for a learner’s permit in Texas?
A person can obtain a learner’s permit at the age of 15 in Texas.
What is the minimum age for a driver’s license in Texas?
A person can obtain a driver’s license at the age of 16 in Texas.
What are the restrictions on driving for new drivers in Texas?
For the first six months of having a driver’s license, a new driver in Texas is not allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. and cannot have more than one passenger under 21 who is not a family member. After the first six months, the passenger restriction is lifted but the curfew still applies until the driver turns 18.
How many car crashes involving teen drivers occur in Texas each year?
In 2020, there were 24,032 crashes involving drivers aged 16-19 in Texas.
How many auto-related deaths involve teen drivers in Texas each year?
In 2020, there were 143 auto-related deaths involving drivers aged 16-19 in Texas.
What are the main mistakes that teenage drivers make?
The most common mistakes that teenage drivers make include distracted driving (such as using their phone while driving), speeding, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
How can parents help prevent their teen from being in a car crash?
There are many tips for parents of teenage drivers that can help prevent their child from being in a car accident. A good first step is setting specific rules and boundaries for their driving, such as a curfew or limiting the number of passengers in the car. Parents can also encourage their teens to take a defensive driving course and model safe driving behaviors themselves.
What should I do if my teen gets in a car crash?
If your teen gets in a car crash, ensure they are safe and seek medical attention if needed. Call the police and exchange information with the other driver involved. Contact your insurance company and consult with our attorneys if any legal issues are involved.