PROMS, GRADUATIONS BRING INCREASED DANGERS ON THE ROAD

This time of year, known by high schoolers across Kentucky as prom and graduation season, causes even more worry than usual for parents of teens. Both of these events are accompanied by all-night parties where alcohol is often supplied by other teens, older siblings or even adults.

It won’t make parents (or anyone on the road on these nights) feel better to learn that in an American Automobile Association (AAA) survey, over 40 percent of kids from 16 to 19 reported that they anticipated drinking and/or using drugs on prom night. Over half of teens who drink on that night consume at least four drinks. Another AAA survey found that 22 percent said they’d ride in a car with a driver who had been drinking.

Parents who don’t want their teens behind the wheel on prom or graduation night or in a car with someone who is under the influence have plenty of options. These include paying for a limo or ride share car, being a chauffeur themselves or hosting a prom party of their own.

Kids shouldn’t be afraid that they’ll get in trouble if they call their parents for a ride home if they’ve been drinking. Experts even recommend having a predesignated code or emoji that your teen can send you to come and get them without letting their friends know what they’re doing. However, an American Automobile Association (AAA) survey found that 84 percent of teens reported that their friends would rather risk driving under the influence than the trouble they might be in if they call their parents for a ride.

If you or a loved one is injured in a crash caused by a teen driver, you have legal options to seek the compensation you need and deserve. Under Kentucky law, parents or guardians must give written consent for their teen (if under 18) to apply for a driver’s license or permit. By signing the application, they are agreeing to be jointly liable for any damages caused by the teen while driving. An experienced Kentucky car accident attorney can provide more information based on your specific case.