Even without distractions, teenage drivers are among the riskiest motorists on the road. Their lack of experience, combined with impulsive decision-making, increases their crash risk significantly. When you add in cell phone use — whether texting, messaging, or scrolling through apps — the dangers multiply. Distracted teen drivers can easily cause serious accidents, leaving others with life-altering injuries.

National surveys consistently show high rates of distracted driving among teenagers:

• The CDC’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that about 39% of high school students who drove in the past 30 days reported texting or emailing while driving.
• The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety estimates that distraction plays a role in about 60% of teen crashes — a much higher share than among adults.

These numbers may even understate the problem. Many teens are reluctant to admit risky behavior, meaning the actual percentage is likely higher.

Teens Often Do Not Put Down Social Media While Driving

Social media apps pose unique risks because they encourage constant engagement. Even when teens aren’t actively texting, they may still be opening apps, scrolling, or checking notifications. Looking away for just five seconds at highway speeds means traveling the length of a football field without watching the road.

Because many teens check their phones repeatedly during a drive, they may never regain full focus, leaving themselves and others in constant danger.

Why Snapchat Is Being Criticized

Snapchat, in particular, has drawn criticism and lawsuits over features that encourage dangerous behavior behind the wheel. For example, the app previously included a “speed filter” that rewarded users for recording their speed while driving. In multiple lawsuits, plaintiffs argued that this feature incentivized reckless driving, and courts in some states have allowed claims against Snapchat to proceed.

Even beyond filters, Snapchat’s design encourages sending pictures, videos, and quick replies — all of which require a driver to look away from the road, sometimes for extended moments.

Legal Liability in Distracted Driving Accidents

If you are injured in a crash caused by a distracted teen driver, you do not necessarily need to prove they were on social media to hold them accountable. Losing control, swerving, or rear-ending another vehicle may be enough to establish negligence.

However, proving that the driver was actively distracted can strengthen your case. With the help of an experienced attorney, you may be able to obtain phone records or other evidence showing app activity at the time of the crash. This not only supports your claim but may also open the door to additional legal options, such as pursuing punitive damages in cases of reckless conduct.

Contact a Fayetteville Car Accident Lawyer at Wilmoth Law Firm

If you or a loved one has been injured in a distracted driving accident — whether caused by texting, Snapchat, or another form of social media use — you have the right to seek compensation. The Fayetteville car accident lawyers at Wilmoth Law Firm can investigate your case, gather the necessary evidence, and fight to recover the maximum financial damages you deserve. Call us today at 479-443-8080 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, we proudly serve clients throughout the surrounding communities.