Teenagers are highly susceptible to getting into a car wreck behind the wheel. These individuals are new to driving, have developing brains, and may make impulsive or poor decisions. Unfortunately, these types of crashes are no different than any other and can result in serious injuries.
When you or your loved one has been hurt in a Portland teen driving accident, you need reliable counsel to guide you through the complex legal system. Our team of hardworking auto collision attorneys can represent you in the process of pursuing fair compensation. Contact Gideon Asen, LLC today to learn more.
Laws Concerning Teen Drivers
In Portland, a person takes Driver’s Education at 15 years old. While this is the minimum age to get a learner’s permit, individuals must hold their permit for at least six months before they can obtain their license. In Maine, drivers generally receive an intermediate license first, which they must have for almost a year before receiving an unrestricted license.
Why Are Teens At Higher Risk of Car Accidents Than Other Drivers?
Teenagers are less experienced than others on the road and may not know how to handle a challenging situation. For example, a young driver may make the wrong turn when maneuvering around construction, one-way roads, or accident sites.
These individuals also do not assess risk in the same way that adults do and tend to engage in more risky behavior. This can lead to speeding, reckless driving, and drinking while behind the wheel. Teenagers may also have multiple passengers who may be distracting them.
Causes of Teen Driving Collisions
The biggest issue with teen motorists is distracted driving due to cell phone use, even though restrictions exist. Unfortunately, teenage drivers do not always obey those rules. Along with cell phones, which can involve texting, reading emails, and taking a call, teens may also cause an accident due to the following behaviors:
- Not yielding to other drivers
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Driving aggressively or speeding
- Talking to passengers
- Falling asleep at the wheel
- Drinking and driving
The use of alcohol, cell phones, and other distractions, as well as poor judgment in hazardous situations, are all associated with teen driving crashes in Portland. A determined personal injury attorney can identify the cause of a client’s case to pursue compensation.
Injuries From Crashes Involving Teenagers
Everyone involved in a Portland teen driving wreck is at risk of moderate to severe injuries. Depending on the intensity and which parts of vehicles were impacted, both the drivers and passengers could experience the following:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Sprains
- Broken bones and fractures
- Minor to severe burns
- Whiplash
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Death
In the unfortunate event of a death, a lawyer can help the family of the deceased navigate a wrongful death claim and seek damages for funeral costs and loss of consortium.
Get Help From a Portland Attorney With a Teen Driving Accident Case
When you or your loved one is hurt in a teen driving accident in Portland, the costs of medical care and lost wages can add stress to an already frustrating situation. Our team of compassionate lawyers can work on your case while you focus on recovery.
We can gather evidence of the at-fault party and chase compensation to cover your losses. Call today to learn more about how we can serve you.
