The state of Florida is officially recognizing this week as National Teen Driver Safety Week.
Running from October 17 to October 23, the campaign aims to educate teens and their caregivers on safe driving practices, reminding them of the risks and responsibilities that come with driving.
Governor Ron DeSantis issued a proclamation in observance of Teen Driver Safety Week in Florida as an opportunity to encourage everyone to help reduce injuries and tragic loss of life, according to a press release from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). The state agency says teens (ages 15-19) make up nearly 5% of Florida’s licensed drivers, though crashes with teen drivers typically make up 11% of all crashes in the state.
Last year, there were 39,150 crashes with teen drivers, resulting in 97 teen driver deaths.
“Every year, teen drivers in Florida are involved in tens of thousands of senseless and life-altering crashes,” says Terry Rhodes, executive director with FLHSMV.
For more information, including tips on how to talk to teens about driving safety, visit the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles teen driver webpage.