Why Are Young People More Likely to Get Into Car Accidents Than Other Age Groups?

Despite years of awareness campaigns, updated road laws, safer car designs, drivers from younger age groups continue to engage in a high number of vehicle accidents. Unfortunately, there is a persistent trend that raises concerns among policymakers, parents, and public safety advocates: young drivers are getting involved in a higher number of car accidents than other categories of people. While they are legally licensed to drive vehicles, their age doesn’t always equate to road maturity. In 2024, road officials flagged teenagers and drivers under 25 as the most at-risk demographic when it comes to traffic collisions, non-fatal and fatal.

It’s paramount to understand why this trend persists and if there is anything to be done to lower the number of incidents. It’s essential for drivers of all ages to make the roads safer for everyone.

Recent Statistics Underscore the Problem

Across the UK and Europe, young drivers continue to be overrepresented in road traffic accidents, and the numbers paint a worrying picture. In the UK, those aged 17 to 24 make up just 6% of all licence holders, yet they are involved in 18% of all car driver fatalities and serious injuries. Shockingly, one in five new drivers crashes within their first year behind the wheel. In some regions, the situation is even more dire—Norfolk Police reported in 2023 that young drivers were involved in more than a third of all serious collisions. The trend isn’t limited to the UK. In 2024, the European Union recorded around 20,400 road fatalities, and young drivers were a disproportionately large part of that tragic figure. Countries like Romania and Bulgaria continue to report the highest death rates, with 81 and 74 road deaths per million inhabitants, respectively. These statistics underscore a continent-wide challenge: while fewer young people are driving compared to previous decades, those who do are still facing a significantly higher risk of accidents than older, more experienced drivers.

Why Are Young Drivers More Likely to Get Into Accidents?

Lack of Experience and Underdeveloped Risk Perception

Young drivers lack experience, hence they often overestimate their abilities, misjudge road conditions or fail to anticipate other drivers’ behaviour. The truth is that older drivers will instinctively slow down when they approach an intersection or keep an eye on the other road participants, but teens will usually power through, unaware that there is any risk on the road. They don’t know better.

Driving is an activity that involves a complex series of tasks, like spatial awareness, decision-making, multitasking, and reflex control. As expected, these skills improve with experience and age, so inexperienced drivers still have to encounter several risky situations so they can develop the quick decision-making capabilities necessary on the road. As they drive more, they will be able to understand better what they have to do in risky situations.

Peer Pressure and Risk-Taking Behaviour

No one can deny that teenagers and young adults are neurologically more inclined toward impulsive behaviour and thrill-seeking, especially when their friends are around. According to studies, when a young driver has passengers their age, the risk of a fatal crash increases by more than three times. Why? They tend to drive faster, take corners more sharply, or even engage in illegal activities like racing, which put them in danger. There are countless examples of accidents where people under 20 carrying their friends lost control during street races. The cars can collide with road obstacles and result in fatalities.

Distracted Driving and Mobile Phones

Despite numerous campaigns warning of the dangers of texting and driving, mobile phone use remains a significant issue among younger drivers. A 2023 study by AAA found that over 60% of teen drivers admitted to using their phones behind the wheel at least once in the previous 30 days. The rise of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram has also contributed to risky behaviors such as live streaming while driving or filming videos. Even a brief glance at a screen can lead to a collision, especially at high speeds.

Driving at Night and During Weekends

The number of accidents involving young drivers during weekends and at nighttime is higher than that during weekdays and at daytime. They are more likely to experience fatigue, reduced visibility, and impaired driving during these times. According to the authorities, the probability of a fatal crash at night is three times higher for teens and for adults.

What to Do When Young Drivers Aren’t at Fault

Unfortunately, being careful isn’t always enough, and young drivers can still be involved in accidents caused by others. In these situations, it’s vital to take immediate and smart action.

1. Stay Calm and Call Authorities

If an accident occurs and someone in the car experiences injuries, young drivers should immediately call emergency services and remain calm. Panicking or fleeing the scene could result in criminal charges, even if they’re not at fault.

2. Document Everything

Take photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, road signs, weather conditions, and any visible injuries. Ask for witness information. According to the specialists from Accident Claims Lawyers these details will be crucial when filing an insurance claim or if legal action follows.

3. Notify Insurance Providers

Young drivers should contact their insurance companies promptly, even if they’re not at fault. Delays can affect coverage or slow down the claims process. If the other driver is found responsible, the insurer will typically seek reimbursement from their provider.

4. Seek Legal Advice If Necessary

If there is a dispute about fault or if the young driver suffered injuries, consulting a personal injury lawyer can be beneficial. Many law firms offer free initial consultations to assess whether legal representation is needed.

Road safety is a shared responsibility, but the unique risks young drivers deal with require targeted solutions. The truth is that the odds are stacked against them the moment they take the wheel, so solutions are required. With improved technology, better education, and stricter laws, the number of accidents could drop. At the moment, though, young drivers remain in the most dangerous position on the road – and communities should act swiftly to protect them.