 |
 |
 |
||
|
||||
|
May 3, 2006
Teen drivers take heed: May through August dangerousPVT
Statewide, the number of fatalities involving a teen driver increased 60 percent from 1999 to 2003. More than half of the 187 people killed in those accidents were passengers. Underage drinking, often accompanying proms and graduations, fatigue caused by driving longer distances during vacations and overconfidence and speeding due to dry and clear roadways are some of the reasons the number of fatal crashes among teens go up during the summer months. A 16-year-old is four times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than a driver age 21 or older, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. A recent study found the accident rate for 17-year-olds is the highest of any age group in Nevada, 10 percent higher than 16-year-olds and nearly three times the rate for 15-year-olds. "Fortunately, parents and teachers who take an active role in the lives of teenagers can help reduce the risk," said Geeser. To help parents and schools protect teen drivers, AAA is launching a safety campaign. AAA has distributed safety materials to all 98 high schools in Nevada and include: • Flyers informing teens about the cost of a first DUI conviction, to be stapled to prom tickets. • Information on changes in Nevada's Graduated Driver's License law. • An interactive computer DVD called "Driver-ZED" (Zero Errors Driving) that allows teens to recognize dangerous driving situations in a safe virtual environment. The DVDs are available at schools and at www.aaa.com. AAA recently held an anti-drunk driving slogan contest. The winning slogan was, "There's a reason another word for drunk is smashed." T-Shirts and pens featuring the slogan are available to high schools by request in limited quantities. |
|
