The current generation of teenagers is more technologically savvy than ever. Unfortunately, teens’ connection to technologies like mobile phones can cause serious problems on the road. In fact, according to Steve Wallace, CEO and instructor for the Vancouver Island Wallace Driving School, mobile phones are likely to become the top cause of teen driving fatalities in Canada.
Teen texting and driving causes more deaths than drunk driving. A 2013 Cohen Children’s Medical Center study concluded that 3,000 teens die annually due to texting and driving, while 2,700 teens die because of drunk driving. In 2013, another study discovered that 10% of teens between the ages of 15 and 19 who were involved in fatal accidents were distracted.
The question remains of how to prevent this dangerous behavior among teens. Wallace suggests enforcing stricter penalties on distracted drivers. Currently, drivers in British Columbia who are caught using any electronic device while behind the wheel are charged a $167 fine and incur three penalty points. However, Wallace believes distracted drivers should be subjected to the same fine as those who are charged with driving while impaired. This fine is $200 to $400 plus license suspension and vehicle impoundment.
To read the full article and find out more about the dangers of mobile phone use among teen drivers, click here.
Whether these penalties would deter teens from texting and using mobile devices while driving is unclear. Until legislation is created, the best thing parents can do is talk to their teens about the dangers of distracted driving.
Even with the strictest laws, teen accidents due to mobile technology will unfortunately continue to occur. If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident where a distracted teen driver was at fault, it’s important that you speak to a personal injury lawyer right away to ensure that your legal rights are upheld.
