Connecticut Auto Accidents: Most Teen Crashes Caused By Distraction

According to new research by AAA, distracted driving from the most inexperienced drivers is a much bigger problem than previously thought. Research has found that distraction was a factor in nearly 60% of teen crashes, including 89% of road-departure crashes and 76% of rear-end crashes.

• 15% of teen crashes are caused by interacting with a passenger
• 12% are caused by using a cell phone (which is against the law in Connecticut)

Cell phone usage can increase the auto accident risk for teen drivers. On average, teens using a cell phone took their eyes off of the road in the moments leading up to a crash and also failed to react more than half of the time before a rear-end collision.

Research in 2016 found that while the top causes for distractions were unchanged from 2007 to 2015, teens were more likely to be looking down or operating their phone rather than talking or listening in the critical seconds leading up to a crash. This research also found an increase in rear-end crashes and the average time drivers’ eyes were off the road.

If you or your loved one was injured in a Connecticut auto accident, contact our firm immediately. Our team of experienced attorneys will begin an immediate investigation and help protect your long-term interest.