Montgomery, AL – The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is joining with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to observe National Teen Driver Safety Week, taking place October 19–25. This year’s campaign, themed “Driven to Drive Right,” encourages families across Alabama to help young drivers develop responsible driving habits from the beginning.
According to Drive Safe Alabama, 25,047 crashes in 2024 involved licensed drivers ages 15–19, resulting in 95 fatalitiesstatewide. ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor emphasized that these figures represent real lives lost, reminding parents of their responsibility in shaping safe driving behaviors.
“These are not just numbers. These are classmates, sons and daughters, friends and teammates whose lives were cut short,” said Taylor. “New drivers are still learning, and we all have a duty, especially parents, to guide, teach and model safe driving behaviors before handing over the keys.”
Nationally, 2,611 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers in 2023, including 822 teen drivers and 604 passengers. Data shows that 62 percent of passenger fatalities were also teens, and two-thirds were young males.
ALEA is urging parents to take an active role in promoting safety by setting expectations early and reinforcing key rules such as:
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Putting away cell phones while driving
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Obeying speed limits
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Never driving impaired
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Avoiding alcohol and drugs
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Limiting passengers, especially other teens
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Knowing Alabama’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Law
“Teen Driver Safety Week is an ideal time to start these conversations, but it shouldn’t stop there,” said Colonel Jonathan Archer, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety. “Safety starts at home and continues every time they get behind the wheel.”
Research shows that teens with parents who set clear driving rules are less likely to engage in risky behavior. ALEA and NHTSA recommend families visit www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/teen-driving for conversation guides, agreements, and resources to encourage safer driving.
“Teenagers are excited to gain their independence, and driving is a big part of that,” added Taylor. “But independence comes with responsibility. The best gift we can give them is the knowledge, support, and structure to help them make it home safely, every time.”
