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Driving Risk
Driving carries risks for any driver. But for teens, motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of death. Because teens and other inexperienced drivers are still developing good judgment behind the wheel, they are especially likely to engage in risky driving. NICHD is committed to research on driving risks and ways to effectively limit inexperienced drivers’ exposure to risky situations.
General Information
Despite advances in automobile safety and regulations, motor vehicle deaths remain the leading cause of death for people ages 8 to 34 years.
Risk factors that are elevated for teen drivers include inexperience, distraction, and nighttime driving.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, unintentional injuries—including motor vehicle and traffic accidents—are the leading cause of death for those ages 15 to 44.
Road safety depends on the drivers’ good judgment and a reduced willingness to take risks, which, like most habits, develop over time.
Research
NICHD conducts and supports research on driving risk and reducing the risk of injury and death associated with vehicle crashes.
Find a Study
NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to driving risk.
More Information
Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about driving risk.
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