Anyone can have a car crash. Yet, the statistics show that teenagers, specifically those aged between 16 and 19 are the sector most likely to have a crash.
What could explain this?
A lack of experience
Passing the driving test does not mean you are a competent driver. It is merely the starting point. From that day forward you are permitted to go out on the road alone and acquire further experience. It is that experience that will make you a competent and safe driver. Teenagers have not had time to accrue the hours on the road. They have not had to deal with the wealth of situations that can occur. So they are more likely to be caught out and crash.
A lack of maturity
Think back to when you were a teenager. Would you still do everything you did back then or would you now consider you were lucky to get away with some of the things you did? The maturity to make wise decisions, and prioritize safety over thrills or fun is not something we are born with. Our brain matures with age, and most teens still have some way to go.
A vulnerability to peer pressure
It can be hard to resist pressure from friends egging you to go faster when you are young. Other teens may feel compelled to take part in races or drive recklessly because of peer pressure.
Of course not all crashes that teenagers are involved in are their fault. Older drivers can also make mistakes. If you are injured in a crash, understanding more about what caused it will be essential to claim any compensation you may be due.
