Teen Driving Focus Of Ohio Highway Patrol This Month

BROOK PARK, OH — More than 7,000 car crashes were caused by teenagers in Cuyahoga County between 2015 and 2017, the Ohio State Highway Patrol said. To prevent further carnage, state troopers will be focused on educating teen drivers this month.

“Poor decisions while driving can stay with teens for the rest of their lives,” said Lt. Rob Gable, Post Commander. “It’s important for youthful drivers to be aware of their surroundings and focus on the task of driving.”

Car crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers, outpacing disease or violence. Teens are particularly susceptible to bad decisions when their friends are in the car, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found.

Between 2016 and 2018, teens in Ohio were involved in 132,163 car crashes. Nearly 70 percent of those accidents were caused by the teenage driver. Those accidents resulted in 251 deaths and more than 37,000 injuries.

“Getting behind the wheel of a vehicle is a huge responsibility,” said Governor Mike DeWine. “To prevent senseless tragedies and save lives, teen driver safety and education will continue to be one of the Ohio State Highway Patrol’s main priorities.”

The Ohio State Highway Patrol warned experienced drivers to be "on guard" with school back in session. Many inexperienced drivers will be hitting roadways, creating a potently dangerous environment.