Teens Choosing Technology over Driver’s License
The number of teens obtaining drivers licenses is on a decline. 
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor vehicles, between 2006 to 2014, the number of teenage drivers statewide fell by 15 percent from 386,000 to about 330,000. In Broward, 30,612 teens had licenses this year compared to 33,982 in 2006. In Palm Beach County, there were 22,344 drivers ages 15 to 17 this year, versus 25,369 in 2006.
As a result of technology and improved communications, teens are finding it more of a financial burden than a ticket to freedom as in earlier generations. The recent recession and higher gas prices had an impact. Not to mention their lack of a job and disposable income for vehicle purchase, insurance and gasoline. Teens are relying on parents, friends with licenses, biking, walking and even public transportation.
This decrease in teen drivers along with graduated licensing programs have been great contributors in the decline of fatal crashes among teenagers. Electronic Stability Controls and other safety features in cars is also making a difference.
Even with the dramatic declines, motor vehicle crashes are still the leading cause of death for U.S. teens. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, six teens ages 16 to 19 die every day from motor vehicle injuries. In 2013, 2,163 teens in the United States ages 16–19 were killed and 243,243 were treated in emergency departments for injuries suffered in motor vehicle crashes
The common causes of auto accidents continue to be driver inexperience, driving with teen passengers. nighttime driving, not using seat belts, distracted driving, drowsy driving, reckless driving and impaired driving (drinking and driving).
It important to remember that while driver’s education teaches road rules and safe driving, it doesn’t help with inexperience and risk taking. That is where parents can have a great impact on their teenage driver’s driving habits. Parents need to take an active role in keeping their teen alive and injury free and lead by example. As a parent, you are the number one influence on your teen driver’s safety.
