Drive Safe
Get the Facts About Teen Crashes
Turning 16 is a milestone in most teenagers' lives. Finally, you have the freedom to drive. But, motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among your age group in the United States. Young people ages 15-24 represent only 14% of the U.S. population. However, they account for 30% ($19 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among males and 28% ($7 billion) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries among females.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5,000 teens die in car crashes each year and close to 300,000 are injured.
Motor vehicle crashes among teen drivers are due to:
- Distracted or reckless driving
- Excessive speeding
- Running off the road
- Driving under the influence
- Being in the wrong lane
Practice is key to being a good driver. Getting a learner permit and probationary license are first steps, but real experience is earned over time.