Kentucky ranks high for fatal teen motor vehicle accidents

Research shows that teens in the state of Kentucky have a 140% greater chance of dying in car crashes compared with other teenagers in the United States. In fact, the state is ranked worst nationwide for fatal motor vehicle accidents involving teen drivers. These drivers include motorists age 19 and under.

According to researchers, Kentucky recorded a total of 128 fatalities involving teen drivers between 2013 and 2017. Researchers pointed out that teenagers in Kentucky have a 16% greater chance of passing away in car collisions than motorists in Mississippi. Mississippi thus ranks No. 2 when it comes to the deadliest states for teen drivers.

The number of serious car crashes involving Kentucky teens may be the reason for the hefty insurance costs among young motorists. Researchers revealed that Kentucky’s insurance rates rank fourth nationwide for students. The average premium each year is more than $9,807.

In some accident situations involving teen drivers, one driver’s negligence causes other drivers or passengers to suffer injuries or even pass away. When this happens, the injury victims or the loved ones of the deceased victims have the right to file personal injury or wrongful death claims, respectively, against the driver who caused the accident. Liability has to be established in the civil court hearing the case before monetary damage claims will be adjudicated in Kentucky. No amount of money can undo the events leading to motor vehicle accidents caused by a motorist’s carelessness behind the wheel. However, monetary damages may help victims to experience a sense of justice in light of the ordeal.

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