It is possible for any person of any age to become involved in a auto accident at any given time. However, there are certain age groups that are more likely than others to become involved in a traffic accident. Teenage drivers, in particular, are more likely than other groups of drivers to experience auto accidents in Illinois.

Many parents are concerned about their teenage children when they begin to drive—and the statistics say this concern is well-founded. Other drivers on the road are often wary about young drivers as well. There is a great push to train and educate teens on safe driving, yet there are still a large number of accidents and injuries.

Many people wonder why the number of teen accidents is so high. Some of the common causes for teenage car accidents in Illinois are:

  • Distractions. There are many things that can cause a teen to become distracted while on the road, such as texting, phone calls, and adjusting the stereo. The presence of other passengers in the vehicle is also a common reason for a teen driver to become distracted. In fact, for each additional passenger in the car the risk of crashes increases.
  • Consumption of alcoholic beverages. As with drivers of all ages, alcohol use is a big concern for teen drivers. In 2009, about one-third of all fatal accidents involving teens between 15 and 19 years old were alcohol-related. Teens should be well educated on the dangers of drinking and driving.
  • Inexperience. Even with proper education and diligent focus on the road, teen accidents still occur. This is largely due to the fact that the teen does not yet have the experience it takes to operate the vehicle in the safest manner.

If you have been injured in a accident involving a teen driver or any other driver, you may be entitled to compensation. 

Jason F. Abraham
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Helping car accident and personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa since 1993.