GARDEN CITY, NY (October 18, 2022) A young driver killed Saturday in a high-speed crash on the Clearview Expressway is another agonizing loss among thousands killed in crashes involving young drivers nationwide every year. Safety organizations across the nation recognize this week as Teen Driver Safety Week and implore parents to help young drivers discuss and develop safe driving habits.
“It’s important for parents to talk about risky driving with their young drivers,” said Robert Sinclair, Jr., AAA Northeast spokesman. “Teens need time to develop safe driving skills. As new drivers, they lack behind the wheel experience, which increases the odds of a deadly outcome – not just for the young driver, but for passengers and other roadway users,” Sinclair added.
Last year in New York, 32,899 16–19-year-olds were involved in crashes – equivalent to one every 16 minutes. Tragically, 76 teen drivers were killed – the most since 2013. There were 9,142 teen drivers injured.
The top contributing factors to young driver crashes (note, this statistic looks at drivers ages 16-20); following too closely, failure to yield right of way, driver distraction, unsafe lane changing, excessive speed.
Self-reported surveys indicate teens whose parents set firm driving rules typically engage in less risky driving behaviors and were involved in fewer crashes.
To coach teen drivers, AAA Northeast suggests parents familiarize themselves and comply with the state’s Graduated Driver’s Licensing laws found at www.dmv.ny.gov, and sign a Parent-Teen Driving Agreement and enroll the teen in a professional driver education program. Visit www.aaa.com/teendriving. For more information and resources for new drivers, visit AAA.com.