Teen car accidents and death spark concern and a safety campaign

In North Carolina, teens are a consistent source of danger on the road. This is due to a combination of inexperience, a tendency to take unnecessary risks, driving while distracted, and behaving recklessly, among other reasons. There are circumstantial factors that might also impact safety. For 2020, there has been a troubling rise in the number of fatalities in teen auto accidents. A combination of issues is believed to be sparking this increase. With that, a campaign is underway to emphasize the need for safety on the road, especially in this worrisome environment.

Teen deaths have risen by 12% since 2019

According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), the number of teen deaths in road accidents has increased by 12% in 2020. The numbers were tabulated from the start of the year through Nov. 20. There were 142 deaths in that time. In 2019, there were 127 such deaths. It is believed that the ongoing health crisis is contributing to the spike in accidents. Drivers are taking advantage of less traffic on the road by speeding and driving while distracted. This has applied to drivers of all ages.

A program called B.R.A.K.E.S. (Be Responsible and Keep Everyone Safe) is being run in combination with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and is encouraging safe driving. Since in-school learning has been intermittent and much of the school day is remote, it is believed that teens have more opportunities to be on the road during the day. In one traffic stop, a teen driver was found to be driving while taking online classes. A dramatic increase in tickets for drivers exceeding 100 mph has been noted. Along with expert recommendations, parents are being advised to talk to their teens about driving safety.

Auto accidents can cause extensive challenges in a person’s life

While teens are the focus of this campaign, auto accidents can involve anyone and cause severe problems with a person’s health, their financial future and in family involvement. The investigation into the crash is a fundamental aspect of gathering evidence and mounting a successful legal case. Those who are involved in a crash – with a teen or anyone else – should be aware of their rights to seek compensation for what they have lost. A firm with experience in car accidents can provide information, guidance and representation in proceeding with a claim.