Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, October 22, 2010, Volume 59, Number 41. Drivers Aged 16 or 17 Years Involved in Fatal Crashes--United States, 2004-2008

摘要

In 2009, approximately 3,000 teens aged 15-19 years, died in motor vehicle crashes, approximately 500 fewer deaths than occurred in 2008 in this age group. During 2004-2008, the percentage of drivers aged 16-17 years involved in fatal crashes decreased by 36%. Despite these encouraging trends, motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for teens. Graduated driver licensing (GDL) programs are widely credited with contributing to recent declines in teen crash fatalities. Evaluations of GDL have demonstrated a 20%-40% reduction in crash risk for the youngest drivers. GDL programs provide longer practice periods, limit driving under high-risk conditions for newly licensed drivers, and require greater participation of parents in their teens' learning-to-drive process.