Teen Drivers Remain One of Ohio’s Most at Risk Groups

GALLIPOLIS/POMEROY – Teen drivers remain one of Ohio’s most at risk groups when it comes to becoming involved in a traffic crash. From 2011-2013, teen drivers were at fault in 99,132 traffic crashes, resulting in 43,785 injuries and 288 deaths on Ohio’s roadways. Teen drivers were at fault in 9% of all fatal crashes during the same time period.

While crash causes may vary, speed-related circumstances accounted for 58 percent of crashes caused by teen drivers. That is why it is important for teen drivers and their parents to be aware of the dangers new drivers face and for these new drivers to make safe and responsible decisions while driving.

“No one else is in control of the vehicle except for the person behind the wheel,” said Lt. Max Norris, commander of the Gallia/Meigs Post. “That is why responsibility, awareness and safety are so important for our youngest drivers.”

While education and awareness are extremely important, the Patrol also aims to change driver behavior through traffic enforcement. From 2011-2013, 62 percent of the citations issued to teen drivers were for speed-related violations and 17 percent were for failure to wear a safety belt.

Teen drivers are encouraged to plan ahead when traveling in order to eliminate rushing from one location to another. They are also reminded that safety belts save lives and they should encourage everyone in their vehicle to buckle-up, every time.

For a statistical map regarding teen drivers and a county-by-county breakdown of where Patrol citations have been issued, please visit http://statepatrol.ohio.gov/doc/TeenDrivers_Bulletin_2014.pdf