Study shows more teen drivers killed in crashes during first half of 2012

March 20, 2013

Study shows more teen drivers killed in crashes during first half of 2012

Article provided by Lozner & Mastropietro
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One of the most stressful days in the life of a teenager's parent is the day the 16- or 17-year-old gets his or her driver's license. Regardless of how much time was spent training the teenager on how to drive safely; there is always a concern about whether the teen is ready to get behind the wheel.

Sadly, recently released statistics show the number of teenagers killed in motor vehicle accidents increased significantly during the first six months of 2012. According to figures released by the Governors Highway Safety Association, the number of 16- and 17-year-old drivers who were killed in auto accidents rose 19 percent during the first six months of 2012 from the same period the year prior.

From January through June 2012, 240 drivers aged 16 and 17 died in auto accidents -- 202 drivers in that age group died during the same period in 2011. In total, traffic fatalities involving 16-year-old drivers rose 24 percent in the first six months of 2012 and those involving 17-year-old drivers increased 15 percent.

For many years, the number of teen drivers killed on the road was on a steady decline. In 2011, traffic fatalities for teenagers aged 16 and 17 increased by 3 percent. If the first six months of 2012 are any indication, the year-over-year increase is likely to be even higher. According to the executive director of the Governors Highway Safety Association, traffic fatalities normally rise during the last six months of the year.

Avoid dangerous NY teen auto accidents

Despite the disheartening nationwide statistics, New York actually saw fewer teenage driver deaths during the first six months of 2012 than the year prior. New York was one of only 17 states in the U.S. that saw a decline -- 25 states had an increase in teen driver fatalities and eight states and Washington D.C. had the same number of fatalities as 2011.

Some experts are speculating that the overall nationwide increase in teen fatalities is due to the economic improvement across the country. According to a former chief scientist at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, teenagers -- who typically must be cautious about their spending habits -- are particularly affected by gas prices. Consequently, when gas prices are low, more teenagers are likely to be on the road.

In addition, some experts are pointing to the lag in enacting stricter graduated driver licensing laws across the country. While all 50 states -- including New York-- have some type of graduated licensing law, the positive effects were more apparent in earlier years, shortly after the laws were enacted.

When anyone is involved in a motor vehicle accident, it is important to understand that he or she may be entitled to compensation. Consulting with a skilled, New York personal injury attorney will ensure your rights are protected.