Who is more dangerous on the road: teens or seniors?

Both teenagers and senior citizens have a reputation for being dangerous drivers, but which group is more dangerous to those around them. Knowing the risks that each demographic can pose helps us recognize the source of risk and take action to reduce the possible dangers. A recent look into the accident statistics of each group was able to determine who is more likely to cause a fatal accident.

Is age a detriment?

When comparing the number of fatal accidents across the country by the age of the person who caused them, teen drivers were more than 50% deadlier than senior drivers. Research also shows that teenagers beat their elders in terms of:

• Causing more fatal alcoholic accidents
• Causing more fatal accidents while on drugs
• Being more deadly in both males and females

In all cases of accidents coming from drunk, drugged or sober driving, teen drivers are more likely to cause a fatal accident. Perhaps it is the inexperience that comes with young drivers that makes them more prone to these accidents. Whatever the cause, there are measures you can take to improve the safety of our roads.

How can you combat this statistic?

If you are the parent of a teen driver, it may be alarming to read any of this information, but you can take measures to fight the numbers. Talk to your teen about safe driving tips, like not using their phone while driving, never driving under the influence, and refraining from driving over the speed limit. A short conversation today can protect your teen tomorrow.

Accidents happen at any age

While teen drivers are more dangerous than elderly drivers, anyone is capable of causing a fatal accident. By reflecting on our driving habits while also keeping an eye out for those around us on the roads, we can all do our part to keep ourselves and others safe while driving.