Being a teenager often goes hand-in-hand with a lack of confidence. Teens are often unsure of who they are, what they want to do and where they fit in. It can be a painful or uncomfortable position to be in, to be sure.
However, one area where teens may be far more confident than perhaps they should be is behind the wheel. According to a recent report, roughly 75 percent of teen drivers say they feel confident about their driving. Unfortunately, this confidence may not necessarily be helping them.
Overconfidence leads to recklessness
As novice drivers, teens typically pay very close attention to their driving behaviors. They observe traffic laws and understand what they are supposed to do to be safe, lawful drivers.
As they get older, though, they start taking more risks and become less diligent about safe driving habits. Feeling more comfortable behind the wheel can make teens feel like they don’t have to be as alert as they used to be; they can feel like they are invincible. Additionally, the legal and parental restrictions taper off as a driver gets more experienced, allowing them to make bad decisions without the same penalties.
The consequences of overconfidence
Drivers who overestimate their abilities and control put themselves and other motorists in danger. The fact is that accidents happen, and they are often caused by drivers who simply took a risk they shouldn’t have.
Getting the message
In order to ensure young drivers do not let their confidence overtake their good driving behaviors, parents and other adults can talk to them regularly about the importance of driving safely every single time they get in the car. Remind them that the risk of an accident exists every time they drive.
Unfortunately, there are drivers of all ages who will not get this message; they will take unnecessary risks and make poor choices behind the wheel until they get into an accident. In the event that you are the victim of one of these reckless, negligent drivers, you can hold that person accountable for their bad behaviors by filing a legal claim for compensation.
