Few teenagers, if any, get behind the wheel of a car for the first time and have a complete understanding of the responsibilities and risks of driving. In fact, a study published earlier this year revealed an alarmingly high rate of distracted driving among teens in Ontario. Regardless of one’s age, every driver has an obligation to drive safely and protect others, including passengers, from injury.

The Ottawa Police are investigating the cause of a serious, single-vehicle accident that injured three teenagers, all of whom are 17-year-old males. The Ottawa Citizen reports that the car hit a light standard at about 10:30 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2015 after the young driver lost control.  The cause of the crash is still unknown as the investigation continues.

Two of the occupants were trapped inside the car when rescuers arrived. One of those young men was the front-seat passenger, and he suffered critical injuries. After being extricated from the vehicle, he was taken to The Ottawa Hospital’s trauma centre.

Another teen, who was found walking outside the car, suffered injury to his head. He and the third vehicle occupant, whose upper body was injured, were reportedly in stable condition after the crash.

The police investigation was ongoing at the time of a Nov. 9 report. You can read more details about the accident here.

Drivers and passengers injured in car accidents are often left wondering how to cover the costs of medical bills, rehabilitation and other financial needs. A car accident can change a person’s life forever, and individuals who have suffered serious injury should be aware of their legal options for holding negligent parties accountable and reaching a fair settlement.