As the parents of teens in the Pittsburgh area are likely all too aware, at times talking to their teenagers can feel like talking to a wall. The desire for many of that age to assert their independence often makes it seem as though they are not paying any attention to their parents. According to a recent study conducted regarding teen driving habits, they are paying at least a little attention, in the case of behavior behind the wheel anyway.

The study, which was commissioned by Liberty Mutual Insurance and Students Against Destructive Decisions, found that more than half of the teens who answered survey questions admitted to having participated in behaviors while driving that were the result of poor decisions. These behaviors, such as driving too fast or talking on a cellphone while driving are things that the teens have seen their own parents do while behind the wheel.

There is no question that this is an issue plaguing the entire country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that car accidents are the number one reason teens die in the United States. Further, as compared to drivers who are older, teens are four times more likely to be involved in a collision involving a motor vehicle.

The fact that their teens are on some level paying attention to activities of their parents should make them sit-up and take notice. Displaying good driving habits could be the difference between one's child living or dying as a result of a car accident.

Source: CNN, "Survey: Teens who drive dangerously learn from mom and dad," Todd Sperry, Sept. 21, 2012

• Car accidents can result in serious injuries. Our law firm handles case in which someone is hurt in a collision. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Pennsylvania car accidents page.