The numbers of 16- and 17-year-old driver deaths in passenger vehicles in the United States were higher for the first six months of 2012 than in the first six months of 2011, based on preliminary data provided by all states and the district of Columbia. deaths of 16-year-olds increased from 86 to 107 (24%), and deaths of 17-year-olds increased from 116 to 133 (15%). For both ages combined there was a 19% increase in driver deaths. data from the Fatality analysis reporting System (FARS) for all of 2012 will not be available until the latter part of 2013, but the preliminary data signal that the strong downward trend in 16- and 17-year-old driver deaths that was occurring in recent years has ended, and — in fact — may have reversed course. driver deaths of 16- and 17-year-olds decreased by almost half from 2007 to 2010. this downward trend ended in 2011. Based on data for the first six months of 2011, the Governors Highway Safety association (GHSa) reported increases in deaths; fatalities for the full year increased by 10% among 16-year-old drivers between 2010 and 2011, and stayed about the same for 17-year-olds. Combining both ages, driver deaths increased for the first time since 2002. the decreases in 16- and 17-year-old driver deaths that occurred from 2003 to 2010 have been attributed to the introduction and strengthening of state graduated driver licensing (Gdl) systems that took place throughout this period, and to the economic downturn in 2008-2009, which particularly affected the youngest drivers. the stoppage and reversal of this downward trend in 2011 and 2012 is presumably related to the partial economic recovery that has taken place. in addition, the pace of state legislation further strengthening Gdl-systems has slowed since 2010, which may also be a contributing factor. despite the recent increases in driver deaths among 16- and 17-year-olds, deaths remain at much lower levels than in the early years of the 21st century. nevertheless, the present situation calls for renewed and focused efforts. Substantial further reductions in deaths can be achieved by strengthening Gdl-systems and by improving compliance with the provisions. there is a need to improve driver education and training programs so that all young beginners can have access to high-quality training. additionally, the many programs addressing young drivers should be subjected to scientifically-based evaluation, and resources should be concentrated on those shown to have positive effects. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting