Even in perfect weather, young drivers are more likely to crash than older, more experienced motorists. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the fatal accident rate per mile travelled for 16- to 19-year-olds is almost three times the rate for drivers aged 20 and older.
One reason for this disturbing trend is the fact that many young drivers do not know how to adjust their behavior to the road conditions. If your child recently received his or her driver’s license, it is important that you explain the dangers of heavy rain and wet pavement.
According to the Department of Transportation, rain can increase a driver’s risk of crashing by:
- Reducing the tires’ traction on the road;
- Impairing visibility; and
- Extending braking distance.
If you or a family member was injured by a driver who did not adjust his or her behavior in poor weather, contact The Law Office of Brian K. Branch. A personal-injury lawyer in Albuquerque will evaluate the police report, assess doctors’ records, interview witnesses and determine if you have grounds for a claim.
The at-fault driver may be liable for your medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages. Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free initial consultation. You can also visit the USAttorneys website to learn more about car accident injury lawsuits in New Mexico.
5 Tips to Help Your Teen Avoid Accidents while Driving in the Rain
Research from the IIHS shows that 2,715 teenagers between the ages 13 and 19 died in car accidents in 2015. That age group accounted for a disproportionately high 7 percent of all motor-vehicle crash fatalities.
Due to their lack of experience behind the wheel, teen drivers are less capable of anticipating dangerous situations and responding appropriately. Fortunately, you can help your child avoid accidents in wet weather by sharing these five tips:
- Turn on your headlights if the rainfall is so heavy that you need to use your wipers to keep your windshield clear;
- Double your following distance to six seconds when driving on the highway in poor weather;
- If the rain is so heavy that your wipers cannot keep your windshield clear, pull over and wait for conditions to improve;
- Never use cruise control in in the rain; and
- Do not slam on your brakes if your tires begin to slip; rather, gently lift your foot off the accelerator and try to maintain a straight trajectory until your tires regain contact with the road.
Unfortunately, even the most responsible young drivers are not immune to accidents. If you or your child was injured by a negligent motorist in New Mexico, contact The Law Office of Brian K. Branch.
An Albuquerque personal-injury lawyer will help you claim compensation for health-care bills, lost income and other damages. Our attorneys have been protecting the rights of the injured since 1997. Call 505-207-4401 to schedule a free initial consultation.