Cause and Cost of Teen Drunk Driving

People who are between the ages of 16 and 24 only make up about 14 percent of the population. However, they make up 28 percent of the people who are involved in a drunk driving accident are between the ages of 16 and 24. It is estimated that 10 percent of high school students drink and drive.

There are a number of things that can lead to teen drinking and driving. Below is a list of some of the possible causes of teen drunk driving:

Peer Pressure

Most teens want to fit in and be liked by all of their peers. The pressure to fit in and be cool can drive a teen to do something that he or she does not want to do. Many teens drive while under the influence because they want to show off in front of their friends. Additionally, many teens choose to drive while under the influence because they do not want anyone else driving their car.

Teens Have A False Sense Of Invincibility

Many teens believe in living for the moment and not thinking about the consequences of their actions. This can give them a false sense of invincibility. Many teens also believe that nothing will happen to them if they drive while they are under the influence. However, that is far from the truth.

Teens Do Not Realize The Dangers Of Drinking And Driving

Many teens do not understand how dangerous it can be to get behind the wheel of a car after one has been drinking. That is why it is important for parents to educate their teens about the dangers of drinking and driving and how it can affect your entire life. Many driver’s ED programs are also including this as a part of their curriculum.

Cost Of Teen Drunk Driving

Teen drunk driving can be costly in many cases. Teens who have a blood alcohol content of 0.8 or higher are 17 times more likely to be involved in a fatal car crash. Keep in mind that teen drivers are already more likely to be involved in a car accident because of their inexperience.

It is estimated that 3,000 teens die each year as the result of drunk driving. Twenty percent of teens who are involved in a fatal accident have alcohol in their system at the time of their accident. Eighty-one percent of them have a BAC that is higher than the legal limit for an adult.

Teens who are caught drunk driving can face many of the same consequences as adults. This includes things such as jail time, community service and fines. Teen drivers can also get their license suspended or revoked. It is also important to note that teens who refuse to take a BAC test may also face serious consequences.