Driving Risk

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.

NICHD conducts and supports research on driving risk and reducing the risk of injury and death associated with vehicle crashes.

NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to driving risk.

Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about driving risk.