The disproportionately high number of young people (17-24 years) involved in highway accidents is examined. Data are 37 within each country are reported which show the extent of the problem. It is noted that all accident categories in which the young age group is over-represented, including traffic, drowning and firearms, involve activities with clear elements of risk taking. Studies of such activities and of how young people become involved in them may provide the key to a better understanding of their accidents and to the solution of the problem. Areas of concern with regard to young drivers are categorized as: exposure and experience; type and state of the vehicle; use of alcohol and drugs; personality; driving skills and training; and features of accidents and methods of data collection and analysis.
Samenvatting