Late spring is an exciting time of year, especially for those who are still in school. Kids of all ages begin counting down the days left in the year before summer vacation, graduation preparation is well under way, and many high school students spend every penny they have on getting ready for the prom.
With so much activity going on, there’s a tendency for young people to get impatient, live fast and feel invincible. Sometimes, unfortunately, this can lead to taking risks that result in accidents.
A tragic example is the death of two teens in Hagerstown, Maryland, earlier this month. The couple, both 17 years old, had just left their high school prom in the boy’s sports car and were headed back to the girl’s home so she could change before they met up with friends. But the boy lost control of his car at a curve in the road and it crashed into a tree, killing both of them. Police haven’t released many details on the crash, but speed seems to have played a significant role.
Both students were standout athletes — she was an All-State volleyball player and the No. 1 singles tennis player, and he was an All-State baseball player who had just signed on to play for Salisbury University. Both were also honor roll students. The fact that they had such promising futures makes their deaths all the more tragic to their families and friends, one of whom summed it up this way: “I think just like any other teen after prom, he was excited and accidents happen.”
Accidents do happen, but they aren’t inevitable. Distracted driving, careless driving and simply going too fast are fairly common among teen drivers, but if you’re riding in a car with someone engaging in one of these habits, there’s no reason not to speak up. With so much yet to live for and experience, it’s better to get where you’re going a little later than not get there at all.
Source: NBC Washington, “Teens Remembered After Prom Night Crash,” Chris Gordon, May 8, 2012
