New research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has revealed disturbing results regarding distracted driving and young drivers. AAA and the University of Iowa studied teen drivers over the past eight years using dashboard camera footage to analyze the moments leading up to car crashes in more than 2,200 videos. According to the study, 60% of teen accidents are caused by distracted driving.

Three Distractions

It is reported that the top three distractions for teen drivers in the moments leading up to a crash are:

  • Talking to other passengers in the vehicle.
  • Talking, texting or operating a cell phone.
  • Attending to or looking at something inside the vehicle.

AAA is encouraging Florida lawmakers to ban cell phone use for teen drivers and to restrict the number of passengers in a teen driver’s car. Currently, Florida law does not limit the number of passengers allowed in a teen driver’s vehicle. However, having other teen passengers in the vehicle is dangerous; thus, AAA recommends that no more than one non-family passenger should ride with a teen driver during the first six months of driving.

Additionally, Florida law lacks a complete cell phone ban for teen drivers. It is no secret that teenagers are extremely connected to their cell phones. In fact, over the course of the eight-year study, teenage cell phone use has changed significantly. Today, teens are more likely to be texting or using social media while behind the wheel than talking on their phones. This, of course, makes an unsafe situation even worse.

Hit by a Distracted Driver? Our Tampa Car Accident Attorneys Can Help

Regardless of the age or experience of the driver, distracted driving remains a huge threat on our roadways. If you have been injured in a distracted driving car accident in Tampa, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Contact the car accident attorneys at Capaz Law Firm to discuss your rights and potential claim. Our distracted driving accident lawyers will investigate your claim thoroughly and provide effective assistance through every stage of your claim. Call 813-440-2700 to schedule a consultation today.