We know that teenage drivers – those between 16 and 19 years old – have a higher risk of getting into accidents than older, more experienced drivers. That’s why it’s extremely important for them to drive cars that are equipped with modern safety features
San Antonio, TX (PRWEB) August 08, 2014
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has ranked what it considers the best used car options for teenagers to drive, according to a report in USA Today that San Antonio car accident attorney Jorge Herrera of The Herrera Law Firm, said could be a helpful guide for parents.
Commenting on the July 16 article in USA Today, Herrera said teen drivers lack overall experience behind the wheel and should avoid certain vehicles.
“We know that teenage drivers – those between 16 and 19 years old – have a higher risk of getting into accidents than older, more experienced drivers,” Herrera said. “That’s why it’s extremely important for them to drive cars that are equipped with modern safety features such as electronic stability control and side air bags.”
Electronic stability control is a safety feature that helps the operator maintain control of the vehicle on curves and slippery roads.
However, according to the USA Today article, the IIHS has found that many teens drive cars that do not provide adequate crash protection and lack critical safety features. The IIHS compiled a list of used cars that cost less than $20,000 and are viewed as being safe for teenage drivers.
According to USA Today, the recommended list includes cars ranging from a 2005 Saab 9-3 that costs around $4,000 to a 2011 Buick Enclave that costs $19,900. The full list can be found at http://www.iihs.org.
“As personal injury attorneys, we know that crashes involving teenagers are among the most difficult accident cases we handle,” Herrera said. “Without question, it’s tragic when a teenager is seriously injured or killed in a motor vehicle accident. But what makes these cases even more heartbreaking is that the teen might have walked away from the accident or may have suffered only minor injuries if the car had better crash protection or certain safety features.”
Herrera noted that keeping teens safe on the highway goes beyond making sure they are in the right kind of vehicle.
“It’s important for parents to talk to their teens and lay down ground rules: no using cellphones or smartphones for any reason while driving; no drinking and driving or riding with someone who has been drinking; always wear your seatbelt,” Herrera said. “There are even studies that show that teens have a higher risk of crashing when they are carrying passengers who are around their age. So parents should encourage their teens to drive alone or with adults. Nighttime driving also raises the risk of accident for teens.”
Herrera said while the greatest risk of car accidents is among teenage drivers, all motorists should make responsible choices to avoid causing crashes due to negligence.
“If you have been injured or a loved one was injured or died in an accident because of another driver’s negligence, it’s important to seek legal counsel to make sure your rights are protected,” Herrera said. “People injured in traffic accidents often face long-term medical bills. They’re often forced to miss work for an extended period of time. The financial burdens can be overwhelming. Our goal is to help people through these difficult times. We work hard to get them the compensation they need to move on with their lives.”
The USA Today article cited is “Car shopping for teen driver? Consider these, IIHS says.”
About The Herrera Law Firm, Inc.
Founded in 1983, The Herrera Law Firm, has successfully represented thousands of individuals and families who have been dealt catastrophic blows due to personal injuries from nursing home abuse and neglect, oil field accidents, car accidents, tractor-trailer truck accidents, construction accidents, workplace injuries, dangerous drugs and defective medical device injuries. The law firm’s mission is to rectify the wrongs committed against its clients so that they can regain their dignity, rebuild their lives, and reclaim financial stability. The Herrera Law Firm, Inc. is located at 111 Soledad St., Suite 1900, San Antonio, TX 78205. If you or a loved one was injured, or you lost a loved one in an accident and need legal help, call (800) 455-1054 or visit http://www.herreralaw.com.