DAYTON — Automobile crashes continue to be the leading cause of death among teenagers according to AAA.
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There were over 2,200 people killed in crashes involving teen passenger drivers (between the ages of 15-18-years old), including 748 deaths among teen drivers, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.
In 2021, there were at least 37,000 crashes on Ohio roads involving a teen driver, 119 were fatal, AAA said in a news release.
The top five Ohio counties for teen crashes:
- 1. Hamilton County – 3,773
- 2. Cuyahoga County – 3,277
- 3. Franklin County – 2,741
- 4. Summit County – 1,900
- 5. Lucas County – 1,721
Montgomery County ranked sixth.
Teens are encouraged to get more supervised training, especially different driving scenarios, before taking their first solo drive, AAA said.
“Strong coaching and diversity in practice driving sessions are key when teens have their learners permit,” said Kara Hitchens, AAA Public Affairs Manager. “Once teens have their license, consistent parental involvement is essential.”
This week is National Teen Driver Safety Week (October 16-22) and parents are encouraged to be engaged while teens are learning to drive, according to AAA.