Sobering Statistics: Teen drivers at greater risk for serious crashes
Story Created:
May 24, 2010 at 3:55 PM EST
Story Updated:
May 24, 2010 at 5:08 PM EST
(WKTV) - The statistics are pretty sobering. When a person between the ages of 16 and 24 gets behind the wheel of a vehicle, they are more than four times as likely to be involved in a serious car accident as an older driver. They are also twice as likely to be involved in a fatal crash.
Risk factors for younger drivers, like lack of awareness of risky behavior, inexperience, speeding, and impaired driving can all create the perfect storm for a terrible crash; like the one that happened on Albany Street in Utica over the weekend.
Police say speed and alcohol may have been contributing factors in a crash that left two teens in critical condition. The driver of the car, Christopher Swider, 17, and his front seat passenger, Stephanie Hawkins, 17, both suffered serious head injuries. Their friends are still in shock.
"It makes me want to drive a lot safer and just make sure I'm safe in the vehicle," said Victor Castronovo.
According to the National Safety Council, each year, more than 300,000 young drivers are seriously injured. People between the ages of 16 and 24 represent about 7% of all licensed drivers in the U.S., but are involved in about 15% of all fatal crashes.
Oneida County Assistant District Attorney Stacey Paolozzi says younger drivers are at risk all the time.
Oneida County has a program for younger drivers called "Alive at 25." It's open to people between the ages of 16 and 25 at a cost of $40.
For more information you can contact the Oneida County Traffic Safety Office at 315-736-8946.
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