The number of teen drivers who have died in traffic accidents has dropped as Virginia lawmakers have tightened restrictions on teen drivers over the last few years. Traffic fatalities among VA teen drivers fell 50 percent in 2009, and again by 43 percent in 2010. In 2010, Virginia lost 35 teen drivers to traffic accidents, as opposed to 110 in 2008. In the same period, traffic deaths fell only 10 percent statewide, indicating that strides to protect our youngest drivers from serious accidents have been paying serious dividends. Virginia officials are attributing the decline to changes in state laws such as a ban on teen driver cell phone use, and requiring parents of teen drivers to attend mandatory meetings.
The Car Accident Attorneys at Rutter Mills are thrilled to hear of this decrease in fatalities and injuries among our youngest drivers, but understand there is still plenty of room for improvement. Distracted driving affects everyone on the roadways, and we see serious injuries routing from the negligence of distracted drivers almost every day. Be safe on the roadways, stay alert and aware of your surroundings, and continue to educate your children of the importance of these principles. Together we can make VA a safer place to drive for everyone.