For many Knoxville families, watching a teenager get behind the wheel for the first time is a bittersweet mix of pride and anxiety. While driving offers teens freedom and independence, it also comes with serious risks, especially when distractions are involved.
Teen drivers are significantly more likely than adults to engage in dangerous distractions while driving. These behaviors increase the risk of serious or even fatal car wrecks, something our Knoxville car accident lawyers see all too often when representing injured clients and their families.
Why teen drivers face a higher crash risk
Research from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that 2,611 people were killed in crashes involving a teen driver (15-18 years old) in 2023. Teen drivers, especially high school students and other young drivers, simply lack the experience and judgment of older drivers. This makes them more likely to engage in risky driving behaviors.
According to a Virginia Tech study, novice drivers are more likely to engage in high-risk activities like texting, eating, and talking with passengers. These distractions increase crash risk and can lead to fatal crashes, particularly during the first year of independent driving.
One major risk factor is overconfidence. While teen drivers tend to be cautious in their first few months, by 16 months behind the wheel, they are twice as likely to be distracted by activities that take their eyes off the road.
The dangers of distracted driving among young drivers
Distracted driving encompasses any activity that diverts attention from the task of driving. Among teen drivers, the most common distractions are:
- Texting or emailing while driving
- Talking on a cell phone or using apps
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting music or GPS
- Talking with their passengers
- Filming videos for social media
Research shows that texting while driving is common among teens, despite knowing the risks. Taking your eyes off the road for even five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded.
In Tennessee, phone use while driving is prohibited under the state’s Hands-Free Law, but enforcement alone can’t stop the problem. Preventing crashes involving teen drivers requires action from both parents and teens.
Graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws help reduce teen crash risk
Tennessee, like all states, has a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system. This three-step process helps teen drivers gain experience under low-risk conditions before earning full driving privileges.
The stages of GDL typically include:
- A learner’s permit phase for student drivers with supervised driving
- An intermediate license with limits on passengers and night driving
- Full licensure after meeting safe driving milestones
What parents can do to help prevent distracted teen driving
You have more influence over your teen’s driving behaviors than you may realize. Setting the right example is one of the most effective ways to promote safe driving. Avoid using your phone while driving, and always wear a seat belt. Your own actions behind the wheel send a powerful message.
It’s also important to establish clear rules at home. Talk to your teen about limiting passengers, putting the phone away while driving, and making seat belt use non-negotiable. Have an open conversation about the dangers of distracted driving and explain how even a moment of inattention can cause a serious or fatal wreck.
To reinforce safe habits, consider creating a written agreement with your teen. A New Driver Contract can outline your expectations and the consequences for unsafe driving, which helps ensure accountability.
You may want to explore driving apps that monitor behavior or block phone use while driving. Regular check-ins and open communication can go a long way in helping your teen understand the responsibilities that come with being behind the wheel.
Injured in a wreck involving a teen driver? We can help.
Distracted teen driving puts everyone at risk. If you’ve been hurt in a wreck caused by a young driver, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Hotz & Associates, P.C., our Knoxville car accident lawyers provide honest, compassionate help to those injured in preventable wrecks. We offer free consultations and are ready to help you explore your legal options. Call (865) 582-0042 or reach out through our online contact form to speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Knoxville today.