As a parent of a teen learning to drive, it’s normal to be worried about your child’s safety on the road. Though many teen drivers will grow out of their teenage years without any serious accidents on their record, it’s important to understand the statistics surrounding teen driving and the risk factors that make teen drivers unsafe.
What Driving Factors Are Most Dangerous for Teens?
The risk of a vehicle crash is higher in drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 than in any other age group. Male drivers in this age group are three times as likely to get into a fatal accident, and the presence of other teen or young adult passengers in the car with teen drivers significantly increases the risk of an accident as well.
According to the statistics, most teens who get into an accident will do so during the first few months of having their license. This is largely due to inexperience, as newer drivers are less likely to be able to adapt to or correct dangerous situations while driving.
Distracted driving is another major cause of road accidents. According to a 2019 study of driving-age high school students, 39% had emailed or texted while driving at least one time in the previous 30 days. Speeding is another common cause of car accidents for teens, as teen drivers are statistically more likely to break the speed limit.
How Teens Can Be Safer on the Road
In order to beat the statistics and stay safe on the road, teens should avoid driving with anyone except parents or family members, especially within the first few months of having their license.
Additionally, keeping their phone away while driving and minding speed limits will help teens to avoid the most common causes of accidents for their age group.
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