New York motorists and parents who have children getting ready to drive may be interested to learn that adolescents who have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder are 36 percent more likely to become involved in a car crash. However, research indicates that the risks surrounding young drivers with ADHD are manageable.
ADHD is a condition that has a number of different symptoms, including impulsive behavior, hyperactivity and difficulty staying attentive. If the symptoms are untreated, they can cause a driver to become impaired in a way that resembles drunk or intoxicated driving. As such, these behaviors often cause drivers to become inattentive while the vehicle is in motion, resulting in a serious car accident.
A study found that those who had ADHD were less likely to obtain their driver’s licenses than people without the condition. If they do get their licenses, most individuals obtain them when they are older. Ultimately, however, adolescents with ADHD should still be encouraged to get behind the wheel, but their parents should ensure that the children are emotionally ready. This means that the adolescent should have strong communication skills, have the ability to make quick decisions and be responsible enough to handle driving a vehicle.
Any time adolescent drivers or even adult drivers become distracted behind the wheel, car accidents are possible. Even minor car accidents can result in serious harm, including traumatic brain injuries, whiplash and broken bones. If it can be determined, through a review of the accident investigation report, eyewitness testimony, and other evidence, that the crash was due to the negligence of another motorist, then people who have been injured might find it advisable to have a lawyer’s help in seeking appropriate compensation.