After the accident you were in, you may be wondering just how much you will be eligible for in compensatory damages. New York is a no-fault state, so only in cases of serious injuries or disabilities can one file a third-party insurance claim. It may be worth speaking to a lawyer about your options.
One crucial step in your claim will be proving the other driver's negligence. If the other driver is a teenager, then it's fortunate that you survived your crash, especially if it occurred during what are called the 100 deadliest days.
About the 100 deadliest days
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says that for every mile driven, drivers aged 16 to 17 are three times more likely to be in a fatal crash than are adults. This becomes apparent during the summer and, in particular, during the 100 deadliest days. Every year from Memorial Day to Labor Day, the number of fatalities from teen driving crashes increases. Between 2008 and 2018, the 100 deadliest days saw more than 8,300 such deaths.
How teens are most likely to be negligent
Summer driving is more dangerous because teens are out of school and on the road more often. They may go to more parties where alcohol and drugs are served. Impaired driving is not the only form of negligence among teens, though, as a recent AAA Traffic Safety Culture Index shows.
Among the respondents to that nationwide survey, 72% between the ages of 16 and 18 admitted to unsafe driving in the past 30 days. Of these, 47% sped in a residential area and 40% on the freeway. Thirty-five percent texted. The following were also predominant:
• Running red lights, 32%
• Driving aggressively, 31%
• Driving while drowsy, 25%
• Not wearing a seat belt, 17%
Seeking compensation with legal assistance
Assuming that your lawyer has said you have good grounds for a personal injury claim, you may leave each step of the filing process to him or her while you focus on your physical recovery. The lawyer may be able to negotiate on your behalf for a settlement covering medical expenses, lost wages and other applicable losses.
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