- February 27, 2024
- Car Accidents
- Personal Injury
- Safety Tips
When people get their driver’s license for the first time, especially as a teen, they are excited to get behind the wheel and drive without the supervision of their driving instructor. But new drivers often make mistakes that result in a traffic accident. What are these mistakes, and can they be avoided?
This blog discusses the top mistakes new drivers make and ways to avoid them. If you or a loved one is involved in a traffic accident, our car accident lawyers at Goodman Acker, P.C., can help. Contact us at 248-286-8100 to book a free case review.
Why Choose Our Detroit Car Accident Lawyers?
Our car accident lawyers are dedicated attorneys who are compassionate and aggressively pursue each case based on its facts and merits. We understand the impact of accidents on a victim‘s life, both the financial and psychological effects, so we always do all we can to secure a favorable outcome.
Our legal team has decades of experience and has successfully recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. We also have impressive client testimonials showing our commitment to putting the client’s needs first. Our initial consultations are always free, so call us now at 248-286-8100 to schedule one.
Six Common Mistakes New Drivers Make
Inexperience causes new drivers to make mistakes when driving. The following are six common driving mistakes made by new drivers:
Texting and Driving
Text messaging while driving is a form of distracted driving and is prohibited for all drivers in Michigan, and all cellphone use is prohibited for Level 1 and 2 license holders. Whether it's texting, cellphone use, eating or drinking, or any other form of distraction, there are dangers involved. Driving should be the only task when behind the wheel. However, many new drivers make the mistake of texting and driving, which causes car accidents.
Speeding
Younger drivers may be more inclined to speed than older motorists who have experience and an understanding of the risks involved. New drivers need to be aware of the posted speed limit, especially under certain circumstances when lower speeds are safer. These include school and construction zones, in heavy traffic, and under bad weather conditions.
Risk-Taking
Besides speeding, inexperienced drivers are more likely to take unreasonable risks when behind the wheel. Pulling out into traffic without ensuring the coast is clear, failing to check blind spots before turns or lane changes, failing to use turn signals, and other risky behaviors substantially increase the possibility of a crash.
Driving When Tired
Numerous studies, including one from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, have found that driving when tired can be just as dangerous as drunk driving. Getting enough rest is critical to safety, for all road users. Fatigued drivers should arrange for other transportation or take a rest break when drowsy to reduce the chances of getting into an accident.
Having Passengers
Passengers can create distraction risks for new drivers, especially if they are teenagers, and take their hands, eyes, and mental attention off the wheel and the road. Michigan lawmakers understand that teens may be more likely to become distracted when fellow teens are in the car. Therefore, there are now laws in place that prohibit Level 2 licensed drivers from having more than one passenger who is 21 or younger in their vehicle. The only exceptions are a parent or guardian, immediate family member, or while driving for work or authorized activities.
Impaired Driving
Though some new drivers may be too young to legally consume alcohol, that hasn’t stopped thousands of teen motorists from being injured and killed in drunk driving accidents. Teens need to understand the overwhelming risks associated with drunk driving, as well as driving under the influence of marijuana, drugs, and prescription medications.
How to Avoid Mistakes as a New Driver
As a new driver, do the following to avoid mistakes that cause car accidents:
- Develop the right attitude about driving
- Get as much supervised practice as possible
- Avoid drinking and driving, drug use, and distractions
- Always wear your seatbelt
- Don’t drive at night
- Limit your number of passengers
- Train for poor weather conditions.
Car Accidents: Top Mistakes New Drivers Make FAQs
Car accidents always leave those involved with questions, and below are some we are frequently asked:
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
Get yourself to a safe side of the road if possible and call for help. File an official accident report, document your injuries, gather evidence, and get legal representation before commencing a car accident claim.
I Made a Mistake as a New Driver But Did Not Cause the Accident. Can I Still Get Compensation?
It depends on your fault percentage. If you did not cause the crash, but your mistake contributed to it somehow, Michigan’s comparative negligence law comes into play. Based on this law, you can receive compensation if your fault percentage is not more than 50%.
Who Pays for My Injuries After a Car Accident?
Michigan is a no-fault state, so parties to an accident pay for their own injury treatment using their personal injury protection insurance. However, if you sustained a severe wound leading to disfigurement or disability, you can file a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible driver.
Speak With Our Car Accident Lawyer in Detroit Today!
Even when new drivers make it a priority to avoid mistakes and operate their vehicles safely, they can still be harmed in accidents involving the negligence of others or cause a crash that harms others. At Goodman Acker, P.C., our Detroit car accident lawyers are readily available to help victims and families following motor vehicle collisions. To discuss a potential case, contact us for a FREE consultation at 248-286-8100.