On Monday morning, a Rider High School student was killed in a crash on State Highway 199. According to KFDX News Channel Three, the incident happened about five miles east of Jacksboro. Sarai Perkins, 16-years-old, was killed in the rollover crash, and four other people were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries. For currently unknown reasons, it is believed that the vehicle was over corrected, which caused it to roll.
Fatal Rollover Crash Near Jacksboro
Although very few details about the crash have been released, Texas Department of Public Safety officials didn’t think Perkins was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. There’s currently no word on how or why the teen lost control of the car and overcorrected it or any other circumstances involving the rollover crash. Additionally, no information has been released about the extent of injuries involved or the current conditions of the other passengers involved. This crash is likely still under investigation with local law enforcement officials.
Car Accidents Involving Teens
This tragic crash serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers teens face behind the wheel in Texoma and across the country, each day. Sadly, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death in teens between the ages of 14 and 18 years old in the U.S. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that nearly half of all teen drivers involved in crashes die. They also report that teens buckle up much less frequently than adults. The NHTSA has developed a “5 to Drive” campaign aimed at raising awareness about the five biggest safety issues facing teen drivers.
“5 to Drive” For Teen Safety
- No cell phone use or texting while driving,
- No extra passengers,
- No speeding,
- No alcohol, and
- No driving or riding without a seat belt.
In 2011, 2,105 teen drivers were involved in fatal crashes across the country. Of those teen drivers involved in fatal crashes, only 55 percent survived. The NHTSA is encouraging parents to talk to their teen drivers about the “5 to Drive” rules, and remember to always set a good example for young inexperienced drivers.
The whole team at the Altman Legal Group sends their thoughts and prayers to the family members, friends and classmates of Sarai Perkins and wishes full and swift recoveries for the other passengers who were injured in this crash.