Florida Teen Drivers and Nighttime Risks

The Florida roadways are filled with teenage drivers. Unfortunately, many teens are using cell phones when getting behind the wheel. What’s even more alarming is the fact that the teenage drivers sharing the highway with you may be making calls, receiving calls and texting while driving after the sun goes down. The results can be deadly.

The Texas Transportation Institute took a look at teenage drivers 16 to 19 years of age and fatal crashes between 1999 and 2008. The findings are alarming. The results of the study showed that the proportion of fatal crashes involving this age group increased by 10 percent nationwide.

The good news is that the study revealed that the overall number of deadly crashes decreased. Unfortunately, the number of fatal crashes occurring during the evening hours went up. The study also showed that nearly half of all fatal crashes involving teen drivers took place during this timeframe.

Many experts believe that these shocking statistics are a direct result of teen drivers becoming distracted by the use of their cell phones. They also believe that using handheld devices at night can increase the risk of a teen driver becoming involved in a serious crash.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a St. Petersburg car accident caused by another driver, you should contact us today at (727) 345-4566 or (866) 836-4947 for answers to your questions.