In fact, many people may not realize that inexperienced drivers are a main cause of car accidents in the country. The Centers for Disease Control report that drivers ages 16 to 19 are three times more likely than more experienced drivers to be involved in a fatal accident. And fatal accidents in the Tampa metro area have been reported to be the highest in the country, according to The Tampa Tribune. Many of these accidents are caused by young, inexperienced drivers being careless or distracted.

Inexperienced drivers have many distractions

My Fox Tampa Bay reported on an accident last April in St. Petersburg, when a cell phone took a 16-year-old driver's attention from the road for just a moment and she lost control of her car. Tragically, her best friend was killed. This accident drives home the point that younger drivers face a variety of distractions that can result in a life-changing accident.

Teenagers are especially known for these common types of distractions that can cause crashes:

Texting and drivingCell phones and other devicesTalking to passengersEating and drinkingAdjusting the radioAccording to Distraction.gov, texting and driving is the most dangerous type of distraction, since it takes the driver's full attention away from the road for several seconds. Inexperienced drivers are also less likely to be able to judge hazardous situations, and are more likely to tailgate, not wear a seatbelt and engage in other dangerous behaviors such as driving drunk and speeding.

Contacting an attorney

While driving defensively and observing the law can go a long way in protecting yourself from getting in a crash, there is always the chance that a young or inexperienced driver can cause an accident, no matter how careful you are. Medical bills or funeral expenses can add up fast, and result in thousands of dollars of out-of-pocket expenses that insurance doesn't cover.

If you've been injured by a distracted driver, it's important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A lawyer can help you understand your rights, and pursue action to receive compensation for expenses resulting from medical bills, lost wages and funeral costs.