Teen DUI Statistics

Drunk driving and driving under the influence of other drugs is among the leading causes for teen deaths in the U.S. About 8 teenagers die in car accidents every day and almost 60% have had at least one alcoholic drink by the age of 18. The legal age for drinking is 21 in all states, yet the law does not stop the youth from consuming alcohol and subsequently getting behind the wheel. Personal Injury Attorney in Houston explains that the majority of teens is new to driving or lack sufficient skill, which increases the chances of fatality in DUI cases. Teens do not understand when they are fit to drive or how dangerous driving can be when senses are partially impaired. About one in seven teens has the habit of binge drinking, while only one out of hundred parents is aware of the fact that their teenage child drinks.

The majority of car crashes that involve teenagers occur over the weekend during dark hours. The most horrendous road accidents involving teen drivers happen between 9p.m and 6a.m. A quarter of these accidents are associated with DUI/DWI crimes, while the remaining sprout from inexperience, speeding, traffic violations, and distractions. Research shows that male teenage drivers are more likely to drive recklessly and exhibit carelessness on the highway. A high percentage of underage drinkers arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs are also males. On average, only one third of youngsters injured in car crashes are females.

Over 227 million people in the U.S are licensed drivers and about 10 million of them are teenagers, which is less than 5%. Yet, teenagers are responsible for over 8% of auto accidents that result in casualties. About half of the students in high school become regular drinkers by the 10^th grade. More than 90% of adult alcoholics admit that they started drinking before the legal age. This shows that the probability of developing a drinking problem is higher among individuals who are exposed to alcohol at a tender age.

While most parents are unaware of drinking habits in their teenage children, many are the reason for their child to take up drinking at a young age. The ease of accessibility to alcoholic beverages at home and unrestricted consumption by the guardian encourages the child to indulge. This child may also influence other peers his age, thereby introducing more kids to a prohibited substance. A lot of teens have taken a ride with a drunk adult driver and acquired the impression that driving under the influence is harmless.

Typically, teenagers who have a good relationship with their parents or other adult family members are less likely to participate in alcohol abuse. Hence, it is important that parents take interest in their kid’s life and keep track of their day-to-day activities. Teen alcohol abuse kills more than 4000 people each year, which exceeds deaths caused by other harmful drugs altogether. Over 30% of teens believe that they drive better under the influence of drugs like marijuana. Underage drinkers do not realize that the BAC level limit of 0.08 is only applicable for ages 21 and above.