Commonality Among Vehicles Driven by Teens in Fatal Car Accidents

Clore Law · December 31 2014

Just outside of Charleston, a car accident involving a local teen has left residents both shocked and grief-stricken. A 17-year old girl driving a Jeep Compass was struck and killed by a 20-year old drunk driver.Reports indicate that the drunk driver was traveling at 90 miles per hour moments before the collision and that the girl did not have a chance to react before her vehicle was hit head-on.Without a doubt, this is an absolute tragedy and could have been prevented, had the at-fault driver made different choices. However, this is also a sad reminder that the vehicles we choose for our children can be a determining factor in whether they survive an accident. Commonalities This is not to say that the girl's parents did anything wrong. They opted for a vehicle which should have been safe, and every indication is that she was a very responsible young lady. Unfortunately, very few people survive head-on collisions at high rates of speed, and it'simpossible to plan for every potential scenario when choosing a vehicle. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has extensively researched fatal car accidents involving teens, though, and has noted commonalities among the vehicles involved. Interestingly, teen drivers are less likely to be involved in a collision as the size and weight of their vehicle increases. They are less likely to be injured in a larger vehicle when there is a wreck, too. Additionally, the IIHS recommends teens drive vehicles with lower horsepower, high safety ratings, and which also have electronic stability control (ECS). Compass Safety There are no safety ratings for the 2011 Jeep Compass although later models have obtained as much as a four-star overall rating. It's seemingly a solid and dependable choice for a younger driver. With that said, it's also a small SUV and the manufacturer claims it weighs 3,411 pounds. This is very close to the size of a 2013 Chevrolet Malibu or a 2013 Mazda MAZDA6. However, some reports clam the Compass can weigh less than 3,100 pounds, which puts it on par with a 2012 Toyota Prius or a 2012 Scion xB. It's also worth noting that the Compass has never received more than a three-star safety rating where a frontal crash was concerned. Best Vehicles The IIHS has come up with safety guidelines, as well as a list of vehicles that fulfill them at nearly every price-point. Their safest picks for teen drivers are listed on their website.

Charleston Car Accident Attorney

Even when we take every precaution to protect our kids, the negligent behavior of others behind the wheel can still cause great harm. If your child was hurt or injured because another driver was reckless, you may be entitled to compensation. Collisions are devastating, but they can have life-long effects when younger drivers are involved. Your child may require continual care or have other needs to help get his or her life back on track following the wreck. Moreover, you may need help with medical bills, covering time off work, and paying for damages. Courts will also consider reparations for pain and suffering. Our lawyers are experienced in litigation and can help. Please tell us about your case using our online form or contact us directly at1(800)610-2546.