Patrol Focused on Youthful Driver Safety

COLUMBUS – Nationally, around 11 percent of drivers are age 24 and younger. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, teen drivers have a higher rate of fatal crashes, mainly because of their immaturity, lack of skills and driving experience.

“Driving is a great responsibility, especially for our young drivers,” said Governor DeWine. “In Ohio, we’re working to expand access to driver training to help support good driving habits, but it’s also important that young drivers make the conscious decision to stay focused on the road to protect themselves and others.” 

In Ohio, youthful drivers, age 15 to 24, were involved in 157,947 traffic crashes from 2022 to 2023. An action on the part of the youthful driver contributed to 63 percent of these crashes. Crashes where youthful drivers were at fault resulted in 439 fatalities and 42,288 injuries during the same timeframe.

The leading causes of youthful driver crashes were following too close and failure to yield or running a red light or stop sign. Leading causes of fatal at-fault youthful driver crashes included unsafe speed, failure to yield or running a red light or stop sign, driving off the roadway and driving left of center. “The responsibility that comes with driving cannot be overstated,” said Colonel Charles A. Jones, Patrol superintendent. “Just one poor decision can result in life-altering consequences. Young drivers must stay focused and avoid distractions to keep themselves and others safe on the road.”

To support young drivers, the Ohio State Highway Patrol oversees the DRIVE to Live education program. DRIVE to Live positively engages young drivers in conversations about good decision-making. The Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Teach Your Teen to Drive website also offers parents and caregivers helpful tips and a framework for having discussions with their teen drivers about risky driving behaviors that can lead to fatal consequences.  

A statistical map containing youthful driver crash information can be found here. To schedule a DRIVE to Live presentation for your school or group click here. For additional information about Ohio driver training programs click here.