Teen drivers are at a higher risk of getting in a car accident than any other age group, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Often, these crashes are not the results of reckless behavior but rather due to a lack of experience.
If you or your teenage child was in an accident that another driver caused, then the Truman Law Firm P.C. may be able to help. Ronald W. Truman is a Las Vegas personal-injury lawyer who can gather evidence, handle settlement negotiations and litigate your case if it goes to trial. You may be entitled to compensation to pay for medical expenses, lost wages and other damages. Call us today at 702-821-1821 to schedule a consultation.
Until then, read on to learn six safety tips for new drivers in Nevada:
- Obey Speed Limits
Speeding is one of the most common causes of serious car accidents among teen drivers, according to TeenDriving.com. Driving at an appropriate speed can both prevent collisions and help you or your teen avoid citations.
- Wear a Seatbelt
Wearing a seatbelt is the best way to prevent serious injuries in the event of a car crash. Make sure that you wear a belt at all times, and insist that all passengers do the same.
- Adjust the Car Headrest Appropriately
The car headrest is not simply for comfort; it is a critical piece of safety equipment that can prevent serious neck injuries. If you are sharing a car with your teenage driver, make sure that the headrest is suitable for his or her height. It should rest directly behind the driver’s head and not the neck.
- Set the Steering Wheel Position
With the introduction of airbags into steering wheels, manufacturers now recommend that drivers position their hands at either 3 and 9 o’clock, or at 4 and 8 o’clock. This will prevent injuries to the thumbs and hands if the airbag discharges.
- Check Gas Level before Hitting the Road
Many first-time drivers forget to check their car’s gas level and find themselves stranded in unfamiliar locations. Always check how much fuel you have in the tank before you hit the road. As a rule of thumb, it is best to refill before the level reaches one-quarter tank.
- Do Not Use a Cell Phone while Driving
No driver should use a cell phone while behind the wheel. Parents should encourage teenage drivers to lock their cell phones in the glove box or trunk to avoid the temptation to use them while driving.
Although these six tips can help reduce your teen’s accident risk, some crashes are simply unavoidable. If you or your child was in an accident that a negligent driver caused, contact the Truman Law Firm, P.C. Mr. Truman is a Las Vegas accident attorney who can determine if you have valid grounds for a lawsuit. Schedule a consultation by calling 702-821-1821.
