New Data Shows Teen Drivers Involved in Nearly 1,000 Austin Crashes in 2020
New data from the City of Austin shows teenage drivers were involved in roughly 970 crashes in Austin last year. More than 50 of those crashes resulted in serious injuries or death.
Data Released During National Teen Driver Safety Week
The release of the alarming data as the United States observes National Teen Driver Safety Week, which runs from October 17 to October 23, 2021.
Car crashes are currently the leading cause of death for young people in the United States, accounting for nearly one-third of all teen deaths according to the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. Similarly, the Austin Municipal Court recorded 328 tickets issued to drivers 16 and under over the past 18 months, 40% of which were related to crashes.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says parents can help protect their kids by simply speaking with them about safe and unsafe driving behaviors. Data shows that teens whose parents set firm rules for driving and practiced safe driving themselves are less likely to engage in risky driving behaviors and less likely to be involved in a crash.
“It’s critically important that parents consistently reinforce driver safety with their teenagers,” said Austin Court Clerk Mary Jane Grubb. “New drivers are less experienced and more susceptible to dangerous situations, putting themselves and others at risk.”
Most Dangerous Teen Driving Behaviors
NHTSA reports the following behaviors as being the most dangerous for teenage drivers:
- Alcohol use
- Drug use
- Not using a seatbelt
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Driving with passengers
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one are injured in a car accident, do not wait to file your claim. Call Thomas J. Henry Law to take immediate action and protect your rights as an injured victim. Our experienced Austin car accident lawyers have represented injured clients throughout Texas for more than 25 years. Call now for a FREE case consultation.
Our Austin, Texas Personal Injury Law Offices
- Phone Number: (512) 520-0221(attorneys available 24/7, nights and weekends)
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