Tampa Has Highest Teen Death Rate For Holiday Car Crashes
Bay News 9 recently published a study performed by Allstate of teen driving during the holidays. According to the study, Tampa is the deadliest city for teen drivers. Even more frightening is the fact that the top three deadliest areas nationwide for teen drivers are here in Florida. In addition to Tampa, the other two deadliest cities for teen drivers are Jacksonville, and Orlando.
In order to complete the study Allstate analyzed fatal crashes during the holiday season beginning at Thanksgiving and ending on New Year Day. Over the past eight holiday seasons during that time period, more than 5,000 teen drivers were involved in a fatal car accident. Simple driver error and speeding caused most crashes while alcohol was involved less than 25 % of the time. Allstate's analysis revealed that the fatal crash rate is 40 percent higher for 16 year-olds than for 18 year-olds and 30 percent higher for 18 year-olds than for 19-year-olds. In addition, 56 percent of teens said they make and answer phone calls while driving.
In Florida, children can get a learners permit at 15 and drive without restriction at 16. Based on the Allstate study, allowing such young children to drive has come at a deadly cost for Florida teens. Other states appear to have recognized the problem. For example, in some states, teens are not allowed to begin driving until 17 and do not receive full driving privileges for another year. Additional restrictions on teen driving in other states include only allowing one passenger in the vehicle that is unrelated, no driving between the hours of midnight and 5 AM, and no texting or talking on the phone while driving.
The holiday season is a time to be around those you love, make sure to keep those teen car drivers in your life safe. Always remember to wear a safety belt and to follow the law. Distasio Law Firm wishes you a safe and Happy Holiday!
Scott Distasio
Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer
DISTASIO LAW FIRM
HELPING INJURED PEOPLE
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888-595-0022
