Despite such measures as graduated license programs and zero BAC requirements for young drivers, the leading cause of deaths for teenagers in Ontario and across Canada is car crashes. Younger drivers are the most inexperienced of all drivers, and when that inexperience with driving is combined with alcohol impairment, tragedy can result.
The statistics regarding the young and impaired driving are revealing. For example, in the fatal accidents involving drivers between the ages of 16 and 25, 55 percent were alcohol-related. Drunk drivers in this age group are overwhelmingly male. 87 percent of drunk drivers between the ages of 16 and 25 that are killed were intoxicated at the time, while 89 percent of drunk drivers who are also seriously injured are male.
Young people tend to take greater risks than do those who are older, and this type of behavior may make them more likely to drive recklessly. When alcohol is added to that mix, serious accidents can claim both the lives of the young drunk driver as well as of those in the same or other vehicles. Alcohol lessens the ability for drivers to respond quickly, reduces their coordination, poses problems in making good judgments and can lessen the driver’s thinking ability.
Drunk driving continues to be an ongoing problem in Ontario, and more steps should be taken to reduce the numbers of young people who drink and drive. While public service messages and other educational approaches are used, some still continue to drive drunk. In the event another person is seriously injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, the driver may face both criminal penalties as well as civil liability for such wrongful conduct. Those who have been injured may want to consult with a personal injury lawyer about their possible remedies.
Source: MADD Canada, "Youth Services – Statistics & Links," accessed on Jan. 20, 2015
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