Teen Drivers By the Numbers: Population, Risks and Accidents

The realities of teen driving can be alarming. They make up approximately 3.7% of all drivers in the United States. That percentage translates to 8.3 million teen drivers on the road. Moreover, those between the ages of 16 and 19 are three times more likely to get into a fatal accident than drivers in their 20s.

Inexperience is only one challenge teen drivers face on the road. Others include distracted driving, speeding, driving at night and driving during weekends. Distracted driving laws and several programs, such as the NHTSA’s Click It or Ticket campaign, have been enacted to prevent accidents.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that teen drivers are more likely to get into motor vehicle accidents than any other age group. Drivers aged 20 or older are three times less likely to be involved in a fatal crash than those between 16 to 19. Young drivers are more likely to engage in dangerous driving behavior, such as speeding, and less likely to use their seat belts while behind the wheel.

Fortunately, several improvements have been made over the years. An example would be driving technology. The NHTSA says that newer cars are safer, primarily due to their safety features. States have also implemented graduated licensing programs, which have reduced accidents, injuries and fatalities.

Increased safety efforts have influenced a decline in fatal crashes involving teen drivers over nearly four decades.

MoneyGeek explored the disparity of motor vehicle accidents when comparing male and female teen drivers. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)’s data shows fatal crashes involving males were twice as many as those involving females.

The U.S. map above details how many of the fatal crashes in each state involved teen drivers. For most areas, young drivers make up 10% to 15% of accidents resulting in death.

However, it’s crucial to note that we observed a higher ratio in four states. Montana, Alaska, Nebraska and South Dakota's percentages exceeded 15%.

Several factors contribute to the high number of motor vehicle accidents among teens. These include inexperience, driving in challenging environments and engaging in dangerous driving behaviors.

Many teen drivers are on the road today. These teen driver statistics are only the beginning of the story. There are several risk factors to consider, and many ways to educate teens on safe driving. MoneyGeek gathered the most commonly asked questions below.

Several concepts are closely associated with teen driving, such as auto insurance for young drivers, the perils of distracted driving and getting a driver’s license. You can explore the subject further by using the additional resources MoneyGeek has provided.

• Resource Guide to Help Teen Drivers Obtain a License and Stay Safe on the Road: Know the steps involved to get your driver’s license and about states’ Graduated Driver License program. It also details the most common risks teenagers face on the road.
• Most Americans Drive While Distracted But Few Admit It, New Survey Shows: Read about the realities of distracted driving. While most drivers say they remain focused on the road at all times, our survey results tell a different story.
• The High Toll of Distracted Driving and Staying Safe on the Road: Young drivers are more likely to engage in distracted driving. Read about the top ten distractions teens encounter while behind the wheel.
• Getting the Most Value From Driver’s Education: Although not all states require first-time drivers to complete a Driver's Education course, completing one is always encouraged. Explore its benefits, which include gaining knowledge, developing driving confidence and avoiding accidents.
• A Guide to Safe Night Driving: Most drivers find that driving at night is more challenging — and it’s more true for teenagers. Read about the most common challenges during nighttime driving and techniques on how to remain safe on the road.
• 2021’s Most Dangerous Days for DUIs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or a substance is one of the factors contributing to teen driving fatalities. This page explores how DUIs increase during specific seasons.
• The Real Costs of a DUI and How to Avoid Them: Teens driving while intoxicated or under the influence may find that its consequences are extensive and long-lasting. Even if you don’t get into an accident, having a DUI will impact your life and your finances.
• Car Insurance for Teens & Young Drivers: Cheapest and Best Companies in 2022: Having a car insurance policy is required in most states and teen drivers should have coverage, given that they’re more likely to get involved in crashes. See which car insurance companies offer the best deals for you.
• The Best Cheap Car Insurance and Average Costs for 16-year-olds: Car insurance premiums are often more expensive for teenagers. Read about strategies that can help you save and find which companies offer more affordable rates for 16-year-olds.
• The Best Cheap Car Insurance and Average Costs for 18-Year-olds: Drivers at different stages in their lives have varying insurance needs. See traffic statistics specific to 18-year-old drivers, and determine where you can find the cheapest coverage.