Teenage drivers are known to be at high risk for being involved in crashes and causing personal injuries to others. Because they are inexperienced, this is a natural phenomenon. Adding in other factors and the danger of a young driver is inherent and concerning.
A new study adds another layer of worry into the mix, as teens having attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD increases the likelihood of an auto accident. For those who have been hurt in a crash with a teen, this can be a key factor in the investigation and pursuing compensation in a legal case.
The study found that teens with ADHD have a 62% greater risk of being in a crash in their first month of driving, compared with teens who do not have diagnosed ADHD. Compared with other teens, teens with ADHD also have twice the chance of being in an accident involving alcohol. In addition, these drivers have a greater chance of receiving traffic citations and taking part in risky acts behind the wheel, like failing to wear a seatbelt, speeding and driving while distracted.
In general, ADHD frequently occurs with children and continues as they become adults. They tend to be impulsive, have trouble paying attention and be hyperactive. In the study, there were close to 15,000 teens assessed. Each got their driver’s license from 2004 to 2014. Approximately 1,800 were diagnosed as having ADHD.
After an accident, the focus for those who suffered personal injury will be getting the treatment they need and returning to full health, if possible. However, when considering the medical costs, lost income and other negatives that are the hallmarks of an auto accident, it is imperative to think about the cause and filing a legal case to be compensated. When the accident was with a teen driver, ADHD and issues related to it could have been a factor. A law firm that understands all areas of personal injury cases should be called for help in pursuing a claim. This can help with the assessment of cause, liability and damages suffered.
