Seniors vs. Teens: Who's at a Greater Risk for Car Accidents?
Many young drivers school students are quick to argue that it’s actually senior drivers—not them—that others should worry about. To find out who’s at a greater risk for car accidents between seniors and teens, check out these points:
Teens Are Over-represented in Accidents Worldwide
Statistically speaking, teens are disproportionately represented in car accidents in every country in the world where cars are a major means of transportation. Although the number of 15 to 20 year olds involved in fatal crashes in the United States dropped significantly from 1998 to 2008, there were still over 5,800 teens involved in these tragic incidents in 2008. Crashes remain the number-one cause of death for teenagers.
Seniors Are at a High Risk but Don’t Drive as Much
Both seniors and teenagers have higher crash rates than average for each mile driven; however, seniors don’t drive as frequently as teens, so the likelihood for their involvement in accidents is more accurately measured per capita. When measuring in this way, researchers find that seniors do have lower crash rates and are currently at their lowest rate of exposure since 1975.
Factors That Heighten the Risk for Teens
Inexperience is the major pitfall for young drivers trying to stay out of accidents on the road. Teens are also less likely to leave more room between themselves and surrounding drivers, especially those in front of them. When these factors are coupled with the low rate of seat belt use, teens are incredibly vulnerable to being seriously or fatally hurt in an accident.
Here at Adams School of Driving, we are dedicated to educating students of all ages so that they will drive confidently and safely through every mile of their journey. Whether you’re a teen or a senior, we have drivers ed programs to suit your needs. Call us at (847) 965-6565 to learn more today.
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