Kentucky ranks among worst states for teen driving deaths as National Teen Driver Safety Week begins

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – As National Teen Driver Safety Week gets underway, officials are raising concerns about a troubling trend in Kentucky — the state has reported one of the highest numbers of teenage driving fatalities in the nation for the fourth consecutive year.

According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet, more than 48,000 crashes involving teen drivers have occurred in the past three years, leading to over 13,000 injuries and 210 deaths. Motor vehicle crashes remain the leading cause of death for teenagers nationwide — three times higher than for other age groups.

AAA spokesperson Lori Weaver-Hawkins says Teen Driver Safety Week is a crucial opportunity for both teens and parents to focus on safe driving habits.

“It just gives us a reason to remind everyone — and parents specifically — that it’s really important to be practicing these good driving behaviors,” Weaver-Hawkins said.

Kentucky consistently ranks near the top nationally for fatal crashes involving teen drivers. Weaver-Hawkins said many of these crashes can be traced to preventable behaviors, especially distracted driving.

“The number one issue is distracted driving — and that’s a problem not only for adult drivers but for teen drivers certainly as well,” she said.

AAA officials say obtaining a driver’s license may represent freedom for teens, but it also marks one of the most dangerous stages of their lives. Parents are encouraged to set firm rules, monitor driving behavior, and emphasize the importance of buckling up and slowing down.

“It’s kind of a wake-up call,” Weaver-Hawkins added. “Weeks like this remind us how important it is that parents take seriously whether their teen is really ready to get behind the wheel.”

National Teen Driver Safety Week continues through Sunday, with campaigns nationwide aimed at reducing crashes and fatalities among young drivers.