Study Shows Teenage Drivers with ADHD May Have Higher Risk of Car Crashes

Teenage drivers who have symptoms of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) may have a higher risk of getting into car accidents, according to a recently-released study from the University of Pennsylvania.

Researchers found teenage drivers who reported struggles with hyperactivity, impulse control and paying attention were more likely to speed and engage in other risky driving behaviors. These behaviors increase the risk of an accident compared to teenagers struggling with symptoms of depression, conduct disorder and oppositional defiant disorder.

Researchers studied the driving performance of a group of 60 teenagers in a high-fidelity driving simulator. The teenagers were 16 or 17 years old and had recently been issued driver licenses.

The teenagers completed mental health assessments and could self-report if they had symptoms of ADHD, depression, conduct disorder or oppositional defiant disorder.

The study notes that it is important to address the relationship between driving performance and mental health issues when teenagers first get their driver licenses.

If you were injured in an accident with a teenager driver, contact our Milwaukee car accident lawyers for a free legal consultation. We may be able to pursue compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Other Risk Factors for Teenage Drivers

The University of Pennsylvania study identified ADHD as a possible risk factor for teenage drivers. However, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified many factors that put teenage drivers at higher risk for getting into car accidents:

• Teenagers are more likely to underestimate dangerous situations
• Teenagers have a higher risk of decision-making errors that lead to serious crashes
• Teenagers have a higher risk of crashes no matter their blood alcohol concentration
• Nearly one-third of male drivers between 15 and 20 years old who were involved in fatal crashes were speeding
• Almost 50 percent of teenage deaths in car crashes occurred between 3 p.m. and midnight
• Teenagers have the lowest rate of seat belt usage compared to other age groups

Contact PKSD Today for a Free Legal Consultation

If you suffered an injury in an accident caused by a negligent teenage driver, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages.

Our Milwaukee personal injury attorneys can thoroughly investigate your crash to determine the role negligence played. We will also gather evidence to attempt to prove your injuries would not have occurred without the other driver’s negligence.

We offer a free, no obligation legal consultation. If we determine you have a case, we can represent you on contingency, so there will be no charge unless you are compensated.

Complete a Free Case Evaluation form right now or call us at 414-333-3333.