Safe driving

Automobile accidents are a major concern to our public health, taking many lives every year. This danger is especially prominent in the teenage years, as it is a leading cause of death and injury for adolescents. However, these accidents can be prevented by following safe driving techniques. By being responsible and cautious while on the road, you can help avoid automobile accidents.

Facts on Safe Driving

  • Automobile accidents are the second leading cause of death in U.S. teens.

  • Approximately 2,400 teens in the United States were killed in automobile accidents in 2019.

  • More than 258,000 teens have suffered from injuries in motor vehicle accidents.

  • Teen drivers are 3 times more likely than adults to be in a fatal accident.

  • Almost half of teen drivers and passengers in fatal automobile accidents did not have a seatbelt on.

  • Approximately 39% of high school students text while driving.

License types for adolescents and their curfews

Risk Factors While Driving

  • Inexperience

  • Nighttime driving

  • No seatbelts on

  • Distracted driving

  • Speeding

  • Use of alcohol

Safety Tips

  • Wear a seat belt

  • Minimum passengers

  • Maintain the car's optimum performance

  • Never drive impaired/under the influence of drugs or with anybody that is

  • Make sure your car has gas in it

  • Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel

  • Respect speed limits

  • Use turn signals when turning or changing lanes

  • Keep music down

  • Respect other drivers and pedestrians

  • Stay alert

Common Injuries Associated With Automobile Accidents

  • Brain and spinal cord injury

    • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

    • Paralysis (quadriplegia and paraplegia)

  • Burns

  • Internal injuries

  • Bone injuries

    • Fractures

    • Broken bones

  • Limb loss


  • Crush injuries

  • Soft tissue injuries

  • Whiplash

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder

  • Limb loss

  • Crush injuries

  • Soft tissue injuries

  • Whiplash

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder

Asking the Experts

Interview with:

Sgt. David Roberts

BSO Weston District Traffic Sergeant


Q: Are teenagers considered a high risk group for motor vehicle accidents?

A: Motor vehicle accidents are the highest in the age group of 16-19 year olds versus any other age group.


Q: What are the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in driving teens?

A: One of the reasons is that they lack the experience of more seasoned drivers. Teenagers are more likely to drive over the speed limit and to regulate their speed in bad weather conditions. Teenagers are more likely to be involved in accidents based on distracted driving issues such as texting or talking on a cellphone. Another issue of distraction is the number of passengers in the vehicle.

Q: What are your recommendations for teens to avoid motor vehicle accidents?

Some suggestions are more limited time restrictions such as night time driving, limiting the number of passengers, or disabling the ability to send or read text messages while the vehicle is in motion.