As parents, we both welcome and dread the day our teenagers become licensed drivers: we welcome their new independence while fearing for their lives every time they turn the key in the ignition. And with good reason. Teenage accidents in cars are responsible for more deaths in this age group than any other cause.
Teenage Driving Facts and Statistics
- Every year around 5000 young people ages 16 to 20 die in car accidents and another 400,000 are seriously injured. This age group has four times the average number of car crashes.
- Teenagers represent 10 percent of the population but 12 percent of the car wrecks. Teenage boys are one-and-a-half times more likely to die in a car accident than teenage girls.
- The risk of a crash is highest in the first year after the teen receives a driver’s license.
Reasons for Teenage Accidents
Studies have shown that teenagers are more likely to underestimate the dangers associated with driving, and they take unnecessary chances. For example:
- Teens are more likely to speed and tailgate.
- Teens have the lowest rate of seat belt use of any group.
- 23 percent of teens who die in car crashes have blood alcohol counts of .08 or higher.
- 34 percent of teens text while driving
As a parent there are definitely things you can do to teach your teenager how to be safer on the road. In fact, John Ulczycki of the National Safety Council, stated that a large part of the problem with teen drivers is parents teaching their children the wrong skills. Find out some quick tips for teaching your teen to drive safely.
Have You Been Injured In A Car Accident?
If you've been hurt in Florida car accident you should speak with an experienced car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our office directly at 727.446.0840 to schedule your free, no obligation consultation.