On November 7th, tragedy struck in Fruitport Township at 5:30 am, where a single-car crash claimed the life of 18-year-old Ethan Burns of Roosevelt Park. The collision, occurring at the intersection of S. Sheridan Road and Airline Highway, left two other occupants hospitalized. While investigations are ongoing, initial assessments suggest that speed and alcohol may have contributed to the accident. 

Unfortunately, incidents like these, which involve teen drivers, are common not only in Michigan but across the United States. Let our Muskegon car accident attorney elaborate on the risks associated with teen driving, why car crashes happen, and how to deal with the aftermath of such tragic incidents. 

Understanding the Risks of Teen Driving

Teen driving poses significant risks, both to the young drivers themselves and to others on the road. Inexperience, coupled with a tendency for risk-taking behavior, increases the likelihood of accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 2,800 teens aged 13 to 19 were killed, and approximately 227,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes in 2020 alone. That equates to about eight teens dying every day, with hundreds more sustaining injuries. 

Drivers aged 16 to 19 are more susceptible to motor vehicle crashes than any other age group. The fatal crash rate of teen drivers in this age bracket is almost three times as high as drivers ages 20 and older. Newly licensed teens, those aged 16 in particular, experience high crash rates during the initial months of licensure. These alarming statistics highlight the need for increased awareness and education regarding safe driving practices for teens.

Factors Contributing to Car Crashes Among Teen Drivers

Speeding and alcohol are notorious culprits in many Michigan car accidents, including the one that claimed Ethan Burns’ life. Here’s why they’re so dangerous:

• • Speeding. Exceeding the speed limit is a choice with potentially fatal consequences. The faster you go, the less time you have to react to hazards, and the impact of a collision is exponentially more significant. For example, a crash at 60 mph is far more devastating than one at 40 mph. Speeding is a factor in approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities each year.
  • Alcohol (and Drugs). Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, coordination, and vision – skills essential for safe driving. According to the NHTSA, drunk driving crashes claim over 10,000 lives in the U.S. each year. Drugs, both illegal and prescription medications, can have similar effects. There’s no excuse for getting behind the wheel after drinking or taking drugs.

Other Factors

In addition to speed and alcohol, other factors that can lead to fatal collisions include:

• • Distracted Driving. In today’s world, distractions are everywhere. A quick glance at your phone to check a text, change a song, or adjust your GPS can be enough to divert your attention at a critical moment. Any activity that takes your focus off the road is a potential recipe for disaster.
  • Recklessness. Weaving in and out of lanes without signaling, tailgating, and overtaking on blind curves are all examples of reckless driving behaviors that can lead to collisions with severe consequences. Such actions not only endanger the driver but also put other motorists and pedestrians at grave risk.
  • Weather Conditions. Bad weather makes driving significantly more hazardous. Reduced visibility, slippery roads, and high winds demand slower speeds and extra caution. It’s important to adjust your driving to match the conditions and, if necessary, delay your trip until the weather improves.
  • Vehicle Malfunctions. Though modern car safety features offer some protection, vehicles are not immune to mechanical failures. From brake failures to tire blowouts, unexpected malfunctions can catch drivers off guard and compromise their ability to control their vehicles. 

The Aftermath of a Serious Crash

When a serious crash occurs, the lives of those involved can be changed forever. Beyond immediate injuries, some victims face permanent disabilities or chronic pain, necessitating ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. The emotional toll of such traumatic events can be equally severe, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression.

Financial burdens only add to the stress and uncertainty for those involved. Medical bills can quickly escalate, especially for extensive treatments or surgeries. Lost wages due to injuries or disabilities can further strain financial resources, making it difficult for families to make ends meet. With these challenges, it’s easy for victims of car accidents to feel powerless.

The Importance of Legal Representation

In the aftermath of a Michigan car crash, it’s imperative to handle interactions with insurance companies cautiously. Often, these companies seek to minimize payouts and might try to pressure you into a quick settlement that won’t cover your true needs. Speaking with insurance adjusters without proper legal representation can potentially jeopardize your personal injury claim.

That’s where Shafer Swartz PLC comes in. Our competent Muskegon car accident attorneys can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, damages, and losses. Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim. Contact us today at (231) 722-2444 or here for a consultation, and let us put our knowledge and experience to work for you. 

More about this story can be found here: https://www.woodtv.com/news/muskegon-county/1-killed-2-hospitalized-after-crash-near-norton-shores/