Teen Drivers Increase Risk of Pedestrian Injuries Over Summer Months

The summer months are typically a busy time of the year when it comes to serious and potentially life-threatening pedestrian accidents. One of the factors that make the season so dangerous is the number of teenage drivers on the road. Their general lack of driving experience and their tendency to engage in daredevil behavior can have serious consequences for victims. A recent incident in the Portland area highlights the dangers and the importance of raising awareness about the issue.  

Teen Responsible for Fatal Pedestrian Accident Involving Buxton Woman

A recent pedestrian accident involving a teen driver claimed the life of a 67-year-old Buxton woman. According to a June 3, 2019 news report by the Press Herald, the woman was out raking leaves near the front of her property on Main Street when the accident occurred just after 5:45 p.m.

Witnesses state that the woman was near the side of the road when a 2009 Chevy Malibu driven by a 17-year-old Windham teen came up and struck the victim from behind. Tragically, she died from her injuries before emergency service workers could arrive on the scene. Police investigations into the accident are still ongoing and no charges have yet been filed against the young driver. The situation is unusual in that the woman was struck by a car in her own front yard, but officers report that there have been several similar incidents that have occurred over the past few years.

Accident Emphasizes the Dangers During ‘Deadliest Days’ of Summer

The Buxton pedestrian accident emphasizes the dangers of what traffic safety officials refer to as the ‘100 deadliest days of summer’. This is the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year when teen driving accidents reach their highest levels. According to the Oregon chapter of the American Automobile Association (AAA), teen drivers have been involved in more than 3,500 life threatening motor vehicle-related accidents during this period over the past five years. In more than two thirds of these cases, it is others involved who suffered fatal injuries.

The AAA reports that teen drivers lack the skill and maturity older drivers possess. As a result, they are more likely to engage in the following types of reckless driving behaviors:

• Driving distracted, such as using cell phones, texting, or taking pictures behind the wheel;
• Disregarding traffic lights and road signals;
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicating substances.

Speeding in particular is a common danger among teen drivers. Surveys by the AAA indicate that more than 40 percent of drivers 18 and under admit to regularly speeding on highways and other primary roads. Nearly 50 percent report regularly going over the speed limit in residential neighborhoods.

Contact Us Today for Help

At the Johnston Law Firm, we know the devastating injuries that can occur as the result of pedestrian accidents. When these impact you or a loved one, we are here to help. To request a private consultation, call us (503) 546-3167 or contact our Portland pedestrian accident attorneys online today.