The National Safety Council hosted its first Forum to Keep Teen Drivers Alive recently, as it works to remind parents and teenagers about the dangers of Chicago car accidents as we head into the holidays and the winter driving season.
Our Chicago accident attorneys frequently report about the dangers teens face on the road — the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continues to report that car accidents are the leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 20.In 2008, a total of 164 motorists were killed in Illinois car accidents involving young drivers.
Participants in the forum included law enforcement, educators and safety advocates from Arlington Heights, Grayslake, Mundelein and Oak Brook. The Safety Council also demonstrated its Alive at 25 safety course, geared toward teen drivers.
“The interest in this first teen driving forum reflects the need for effective teen driver training,” said John Kennedy, group vice president for programs and education at the National Safety Council. “The Alive at 25 course goes beyond the rules of the road by sharing the importance of making good decisions behind the wheel and the consequences poor choices can have on families and friends. Due to the success of this first forum, we look forward to hosting more across the country.”
Nationwide, the government reports that 2,739 drivers ages 15 to 20 were killed in crashes in 2008 and an additional 228,000 were injured. In all, teenagers account for about 1 in 9 drivers killed in accidents.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes offer free case evaluations . Call (866) 99-ABELS to speak directly to an attorney.