In the United States, car accidents are very common. Reports show that, on the average, around 6 million vehicular accidents happen each year.
Getting embroiled in a car mishap is something you definitely do not want to happen. This is why it is important to observe safe driving practices all the time. For example, wearing your seatbelt while you are behind the wheel can cut the likelihood of incurring a serious injury by 50% and the risk of death by 45%.
You can also enroll in a drivers education course. Currently, several states require teenagers to take formal driving lessons. In Nevada, for example, beginner drivers below 18 years old must complete at least 30 hours of driving course. Completing the required hours is necessary for teens to obtain their driver’s license.
One of the primary reasons for the implementation of professional driving lessons for teenagers is to lessen motor vehicle accidents. Reports show that a significant percentage of car collisions involves young drivers, particularly those under 19. In fact, the risk of getting embroiled in a fatal car crash is three times higher for those in the 16-19 age group than those who are 20 years old and above.
Motor vehicle accidents remain to be among the top causes of teen deaths in the US. In 2016 alone, car crashes involving teen drivers resulted in over 2,000 deaths. It also led to over 300,000 injuries.
These young drivers are said to be more prone to accidents because of their inexperience. Being new drivers, teens tend to commit critical errors while driving which increase their risk of getting into a car crash.
Furthermore, as compared to older drivers, studies reveal that teenagers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors. While behind the wheel, they are more likely to speed up and use electronic devices. In one survey, 42% of teens admitted to sending text messages while driving.
Fortunately, road accidents involving teen drivers can be prevented. There are tried and tested strategies which can make this happen and completing a drivers ed course is one of them.
A professional driving lesson does more than just teach newbie drivers how to operate or handle a motor vehicle. It lays the foundation for proper driving skills and practices which are essential for teens to be safe on the road. It also creates an awareness about the repercussions of doing risky deeds while they are behind the wheel.
So far, empirical data show that completing a drivers ed course keeps teenagers safe. In one study, traffic tickets received by teen drivers went down by as much as 40% after the implementation of mandatory drivers education.
Suffice it to say, taking a professional driving course keeps teens safe while they are behind the wheel. It can also make you a better driver.
It is easy to dismiss drivers ed as a course only meant for teenagers, but it is not. There are also classes meant for adult or experienced drivers like a defensive driving course.
A defensive driving course, also popularly called traffic school, is often taken by those who wish to improve their driving record, specifically shave off points they’ve incurred due to traffic violations. Some also enroll in one to reduce their ticket fines.
However, this class isn’t just for those who have multiple traffic violations. Even if you have a stellar driving record, you can still benefit from a defensive driving course. Enrolling in a traffic school can help you correct improper driving habits. It can also equip you with the skills necessary to avoid and properly handle hazardous traffic situations.
Furthermore, taking traffic school can help you get a discounted insurance premium. As a form of incentive, reduced premiums are offered by certain insurance companies to those who complete a defensive driving course.
There is no denying that taking professional driving lessons can go a long way in terms of keeping you and your loved ones safe while you are on the road. However, this measure doesn’t completely shield you from getting embroiled in traffic incidents.
Remember, no matter how safe and responsible you are as a driver, accidents beyond your control can still happen. After all, there are still reckless drivers out there. For this reason, it is important that you have an attorney you can call when you get involved in a car accident.
Taking the proper course of action after experiencing a car collision can be difficult, especially if you are injured. You need an experienced personal injury lawyer to be on top of things to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, you do not leave anything to chance. You do what you can to prevent them from happening like taking a drivers education course. You also ensure that you are prepared when it happens – this means having a trusted car accident attorney on your speed dial.
