Restricting Nighttime Driving by Teens Would Save Lives

August 4, 2016

Restricting teenagers from driving at night could reduce the number of fatal crashes they are involved in, according to a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

From 2009 to 2014, one-third of fatal crashes involving 16- to 17-year-old drivers took place in the hours from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., with 57 percent of fatal crashes happening before midnight.

The majority of teenagers who are on the road at night are there before midnight. However, only 26 states restrict teenage driving before 12 a.m., while 23 states restrict teenage driving only after midnight. Kansas, North Carolina and New York are the only states that begin nighttime driving restrictions at 9 p.m.

After-midnight driving restrictions are not providing much protection for teenage drivers, says Ruth Shults, lead author of the study.

The CDC cites research showing that driving restrictions beginning at or before 10 p.m. can reduce injuries and fatalities. The agency suggests state legislatures reevaluate their night driving laws based on the newly available data.

While driving during nighttime hours increases fatal accident risk in all driver age groups, it is especially dangerous for teen drivers due to their inexperience.

One emergency room physician supports this idea, stating that the majority of automobile accidents take place earlier in the evening.

Tips for Parents

If states are not going to implement earlier restrictions on teenage drivers, parents are free to do so themselves, according to Shults.

She also encourages parents to spend as much time as they can in the car with their teenagers to help them become more proficient nighttime drivers.

If you were injured in a car accident involving a negligent teenage driver, you may be entitled to compensation. The Arizona auto accident injury lawyers at Phillips Law Group will fight to maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Call 1-800-706-3000 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation formtoday.