AAA recently released a study showing that new teen drivers are 50 percent more likely to be involved in a car accident in the first month they begin driving on their own. The study goes on to show that this percentage lessens with experience. When AAA analyzed the causes for these car wrecks some of the most common mistakes were:

• failing to reduce speed 
• failure to yield 
• distractions such as passengers and cell phones

The study went on to show that teens behavior changes when a parent in no longer riding in the car with them. Without a second set of eyes helping them watch the road they’re more likely to miss little details that could result in a car accident. Some of the car accidents were caused by inexperience but with no parental guidance, horseplay with passengers, texting and driving and other potentially dangerous habits were also common.

This is a good reminder to parents to stay involved in the learning process even after the law okays these teenagers to drive without supervision. Encouragement and continued guidance from parents is important. Parents also need to remember that they lead by example and how they drive in the car can influence how their teen drives.

Parents can create a safer driving environment by setting boundaries. Practice is key and even after the teen has their license, especially for night driving and when driving in bad weather. Set a rule when it comes to passengers. Additional people in the car, especially friends, can cause distractions and setting boundaries can help reduce any car wrecks.

Richard Schwartz and Associates wants both new and seasoned drivers to be safe on the road. If you’ve been involved in a car accident be sure to call the attorneys at Richard Schwartz and Associates. They’ll be able to help you with your insurance claim and get any money you deserve.