Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for U.S. teenagers. According to the CDC, drivers aged 16-19 face a higher risk of crashes than any other age group. These risks are preventable, but they require awareness from both teens and families.

Who Faces the Highest Risk?

Certain groups of young drivers are at even greater risk:

• Males - The fatal crash rate for male drivers aged 16-19 is nearly three times higher than for females.
• Newly licensed teens - Crash rates are highest during the first months after getting a license.
• Driving with peers - Risk increases with each additional teenage passenger.

Key Risk Factors

• Inexperience - Teens are more likely to misjudge hazards or fail to react in time.
• Nighttime and Weekend Driving - Fatal crashes are more common between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. and on weekends.
• Seat Belt Nonuse - More than half of teen drivers and passengers killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts.
• Distraction - Nearly 40% of teen drivers report texting or emailing behind the wheel.
• Speeding and Following Too Closely - Teen drivers are more likely than adults to speed and to drive too close to the vehicle ahead.
• Alcohol and Substance Use - Even though underage drinking is illegal, alcohol remains a factor in many teen crashes. Drugs such as marijuana can also impair coordination and reaction time.

Steps to Keep Teens Safe

Families can help reduce risks by setting clear expectations and practicing safe habits. Based on the CDC's findings and our experience representing injured clients, we strongly recommend the following:

• Encourage consistent seat belt use.
• Set curfews and limit nighttime driving.
• Restrict the number of passengers allowed in the car.
• Establish a zero-tolerance policy for phone use behind the wheel.
• Provide plenty of supervised driving practice in different conditions.
• Model safe driving behaviors as adults.

We're Here to Help

Despite every precaution, crashes involving teen drivers still happen—and the consequences can be life-changing. If you or someone you love has been injured in a collision, you don't have to face the aftermath alone.

At Powell Klausing, we have more than a decade of experience handling serious car accident cases and personal injury claims Our team is committed to protecting families, holding negligent drivers accountable, and helping victims recover the full compensation they deserve.

Contact our firm today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward after a crash.