Adolescent Drivers

Adolescent drivers, typically defined as individuals aged 15 to 20, face unique challenges on the road due to inexperience and developmental factors. This demographic is disproportionately represented in motor vehicle crashes, making it essential to understand the statistics and risk factors associated with young drivers both nationally and within New Hampshire.

National Data: 2022

2,034 Fatalities - 8.1% of total fatalities
180,353 injured
The leading cause of death for 16–19-year-olds are motor-vehicle crashes
75% of teen driver crashes are due to critical errors associated with:
- Inexperience detecting hazards
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
Young drivers account for $40.7 billion per year in costs from medical expenses and work loss

NH Data:

2024 - 10 Fatalities - 400% increase over 2023
2023 - 3 Fatalities
2022 - 1 Fatality
2021 - 2 Fatalities
2020 - 1 Fatality

National Comparison: Despite the recent spike, New Hampshire has been recognized as one of the safest states for teen drivers, with young driver-related fatalities comprising 6.2% of the state's total, among the lowest in the U.S. Top 10 Most Dangerous and Safest States for Youth Drivers

Risk Factors for Adolescent Drivers

Inexperience: Limited driving experience can impair hazard recognition and decision-making skills.
Risk-Taking Behavior: Teens are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as speeding and tailgating.
Seat Belt Usage: Low seat belt use among teens increases the severity of crash outcomes.
Alcohol and Substance Use: Underage drinking and drug use impair judgment and reaction times.
Distracted Driving: Use of mobile devices and other distractions divert attention from the road.

Safety Recommendations

Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) Programs: Implementing GDL systems can provide structured learning experiences for new drivers.
Parental Involvement: Active supervision and setting driving restrictions can promote safer driving habits.
Education and Training: Participating in driver education programs enhances skills and awareness.
Enforcement of Seat Belt Laws: Strict enforcement encourages consistent seat belt use.
Zero Tolerance for Impaired Driving: Enforcing laws against underage drinking and driving deters substance-impaired driving.

Infractions and Enforcement

60% of teen drivers will have a crash, a ticket, or be arrested in the first year of driving

Driving infractions may result in enforcement penalties such as points off your license and/or suspension/arrest. Below are some common examples of infractions and the penalities:

Driving while intoxicated:
- 6 points or immediate suspension/arrest w/ criminal charges
Disobeying a police officer:
- 6 points
Improper passing:
- 4 points
Speeding in excess of 25 MPH
- 4 points
Speeding in excess of 1-24 MPH
- 3 points
Driving with no license to show an officer
- 2 points

Driving infractions for younger drivers are more severe:

Under 18 Years Old:
- Three-month suspension for 6 points in one year
- Six-month suspension for 12 points in two years
- One-year suspension for 18 points in three years
18-21 Years Old:
- Three-month suspension for 9 points in one year
- Six-month suspension for 15 points in two years
- One-year suspension for 21 points in three years
Over 21 Years Old:
- Three-month suspension for 12 points in one year
- Six-month suspension for 18 points in two years
- One-year suspension for 24 points in three years

By understanding these statistics and risk factors, targeted interventions can be developed to improve the safety of adolescent drivers both nationally and within New Hampshire.

The crashes linked below all involve drivers under 21 that occurred in Fall 2024.

Fatal Crash in Bow, NH - November 21, 2024