A night of fun and friends turned tragic when a Nebraska teenager from Eagle died from his injuries in a one car wreck. This tragedy might have been avoided if the passengers had been wearing seat belts. According to the Lancaster sheriff, the chances for survival of a passenger wearing a safety belt is much greater in a roll-over car wreck.

The accident occurred about 7 p.m. when the 15-year-old driver lost control of the Pontiac Grand Am on a gravel road north of Waverly. None of the six occupants of the vehicle, ranging in age from 14-20, were wearing safety belts at the time of the accident. The fatal injuries to the 15-year-old passenger resulted when the car rolled over at least two times and the teen was ejected from the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle was not operating within the law by driving with a learner’s permit without an adult over the age of 21 in the car. Authorities believe the teen driver was not experienced enough to be able to control the car when it left the paved road onto the gravel road. All of the passengers suffered injuries and were treated at local hospitals.

Teen drivers don’t always understand the enormous responsibilities involved in operating a motor vehicle. The family of the teen that died is left with pain and confusion, as well as medical bills and funeral expenses. Although nothing can bring back their loved one, families affected by a tragic car wreck can be helped by professionals well versed in the Nebraska laws.

Source: omaha.com, 15-year-old driver crashes; 1 boy dead, 5 others injured, No author, Aug. 27, 2013