If you are the parent of a teenager, you may be worried about your child’s safety for various reasons. For example, you may be concerned about them getting into a fight or passing away due to drug or prescription medication abuse. However, traffic accidents are particularly problematic and have claimed the lives of far too many young people in the U.S. As a parent, it is important for you to understand how widespread these fatalities really are.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 10,000 fatalities occur on an annual basis among those who are between 15 and 19 years old. Out of 100,000 teens in this age group, 48.3 pass away each year in the U.S., on average. There are many reasons why teenagers lose their lives, but the CDC reports that unintentional injuries such as those sustained in motor vehicle accidents are the primary cause of death among people in this age group. Other leading factors include homicide and suicide.
During these years, many young people begin to drive for the first time. If you have a teen who is starting to drive, it is especially important for you to do all you can to prepare them for the road and help them stay safe behind the wheel. Moreover, you should also realize that many teens are hurt and killed in accidents even though they were not driving. For example, your child may be involved in a serious collision when they are riding along with one of their friends.