Teens and Motor Vehicle Accidents.
According to the Center for Disease Control, “Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens, accounting for 36% of all deaths in this age group” (“Teen Driver’s Fact Sheet”, CDC Injury Center, 2006). When you compare teen drivers to older drivers, “the fatality rate for drivers 16 to 19 years, based on miles driven, is four times that of drivers aged 25 to 69 years.” (“Driving: Through the Eyes of Teens”, A Research Report of CHOP and State Farm, F.K. Winston, M.D., Ph.D. et. al., 2007.) Clearly, parents and educators have reason for concern when teens take to the road.
Accident Rates High for Teens.
There are many contributing factors. Some of these include:
- Inexperience. Teens have logged less hours on the road than adult drivers, so their lack of experience may increase their chances of getting into an accident. They may underestimate hazards (such as driving in poor weather), have a limited repertoire of problem-solving responses, and may exhibit poor judgment.
- Risky behaviors. Peer pressure, thrill-seeking, and the sense of invincibility that is a hallmark of teen development may cause teens to take more risks, such as speeding, on the road. Teens who experiment with drugs or alcohol and then get behind the wheel may be unaware of how these substances may impact their ability to drive safely. Teens may also be less likely to utilize safety precautions such as seat belts.
- Distractions. Teens may underestimate the impact of distractions such as talking on cell phones, texting, or operating ipods. The presence and behavior of passengers may make it difficult for young drivers to keep their focus on the road.
All of these risk factors can increase a teen’s chances of being involved in a possibly fatal accident.
Helping Teens be Better Drivers.
Kids need experience and education. Ideally, their driving experience should occur primarily in the presence of a responsible adult as opposed to other teens who may encourage risky behavior. Help them learn more than the basics required to pass driving tests. Offer them “what if?” scenarios to test their problem-solving skills. Limit night driving and driving long distances or on unfamiliar roads until skills increase. Require kids to prove maturity and responsibility before driving unsupervised.
Educate kids about the importance of safe driving practices, including seat belt use, maintaining proper speed, and avoiding distractions. Check out organizations such as SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) for activities and campaigns that address teen drinking and driving as well as other issues. Make sure kids have reliable transportation to and from social events where drinking may be present. Remember that passengers, not just drivers, are at risk, too.
You may also enjoy Alcohol Advertising and Teens or Top Ten Refusal Skills for Teens.
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