As Dallas wrongful death lawyers, we are concerned about the recent report concerning the upward trend in U.S. teen driver deaths. As data continues to come in, 2012 appears to be the second year in a row that the nation has seen an increase in teen driver deaths after eight years of decline.
According to preliminary numbers, 16- and 17-year-old driver deaths in passenger vehicles were higher in the first six months of 2012 than they were in the first six months of 2011. Nationwide, deaths of 16-year-olds increased 24 percent and deaths of 17-year-olds increased 15 percent.
Texas, however, is one of the few states that actually saw a slight decrease in the number of teenage traffic fatalities during the first six months of 2012 when compared to 2011. In Texas, during the first six months of 2011, 16 teenagers were killed in traffic accidents while 14 were killed over the same period in 2012.
One reason for the nationwide upward trend is the popularity of using cell phones and other electronic devices while driving. If you have a young driver in your household, remind him or her of the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of practicing safe driving habits at all times. Also, strong graduated driver’s licensing programs are critical, so young drivers can practice in a safe and supervised environment before they become fully-licensed drivers.
If you have been injured in a car accident, you should contact an experienced Dallas car accident lawyer at Crowe Arnold & Majors, LLP. We can help you get the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today to set-up your free consultation.
