From Corsage to Catastrophe
From a night to remember, to a night they’ll never forget – Prom night accident tragedies are unfortunately all too common.
Our hearts and prayers go out to the families effected by a recent tragedy in which a 17 year old lost her life and an 18 year old was severely injured. While the investigation is ongoing, and the cause has not been confirmed, it’s a difficult reminder that young lives can be cut short in an instant. Prom season is celebrated more than ever before, with viral ‘promposals’ and increasingly large budgets, as well as an increased risk of accidents and tragedy.
From drunk driving, drowsy or distracted driving and other careless behavior on the road ways – Our youth are at a higher risk than ever before. Relatively new drivers can also create incredibly dangerous driving conditions for all of us on the roadways.
Statistics show about 30% of teen traffic fatalities occur during the months of April-June, and are alcohol related in nature.
The increased risk is directly associated with ‘prom season’ and a recent MADD Study estimates that about 75% of kids are propositioned to drink during prom. Another 50% report having been offered drugs. These terrifying estimates are a cold warning for all of us, including parents and their prom goers..
Preventative measures
From mock crash set ups to educational and informational resources, as well as preventing or closely monitoring prom goers before, during and after the festivities – Many area schools are trying to crack down on prom dangers. Unfortunately, just as with any other young age group – teens are just not going to abide 100%… It is simply impossible to watch every teen, every hour, of every day.
The recent tragedy in Ohio was likely attributed to “after prom”, causing the driver to be drowsy in the wee hours of the morning and ultimately crashing into a utility pole, killing his 17 year old passenger. Even preventative measures can backfire, truly proving that we have to push our teens to think twice.
Drinking and drugging aren’t the only dangers
Pressure to drive fast and dangerously is also common, with over 50% of surveyed teens reporting to MADD that they felt pressure to drive recklessly. Failure to wear seat belts, distractions and other dangers are lurking around every turn. Texting, increased passengers, and tiredness are all risk factors for increased accidents.
Accidents are the NUMBER ONE cause of deaths for teenagers. One drink for a teen increases their likelihood for a fatal accident by 17 TIMES.
Of course we want to protect kids on the road ways, but we also need to ensure our own safety and hold those accountable for their reckless behavior. From promoting under age drinking to teens getting behind the wheel – If you or a loved one was injured as a result of a drunk driver, you must call my offices today. Do not listen to your insurance companies, and do not risk another tragedy.
As your Ohio car accident attorney, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over four decades, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus, Dayton and neighboring communities. You can reach Tim by email at misnylaw.com/ask-tim-a-question/ or call at 877.944.4373.
