Suggested Reading: Teen Drivers: Fact Sheet from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Quick Thought: Auto accidents are the No. 1 killer of teenagers. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “In 2009, about 3,000 teens in the United States aged 15–19 were killed and more than 350,000 were treated in emergency departments for injuries suffered in motor-vehicle crashes” (Teen Drivers: Fact Sheet).
Despite Kentucky’s laws, which provide for a graduated driver’s license for teens, we haven’t yet reduced teenage driving deaths and injuries in half. I believe the reason is multifaceted: (1) teens believe bad things happen to others, and not to them; (2) they are overconfident about their own driving skills; (3) teenagers are higher risk takers and many are thrill seekers; and (4) they want to show off to friends. There may be many other reasons, as well. Think of all the distractions teenagers have, like cell phones, friends, and the radio.
1. Do you think seeing the video(s) and reading the handout will change how new drivers drive? Why or why not?
2. Do you think you’re a good driver? Why or why not?
3. Does seeing these teenagers’ own impressions of how they drive along with the reality make you wonder about your own driving? Why or why not?
4. What do you think would help most to improve teen driving?
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