This is National Teen Driver Safety Week, a campaign designed to raise awareness about the importance of avoiding risky behaviors that could lead to injuries and deaths on the roadways.
According to the Nebraska Office of Highway Safety, in 2020 teen drivers accounted for only 5.2% of all licensed drivers in Nebraska, however they accounted for 14% of all crashes.
Teens also accounted for 25% of crashes between 9pm-midnight, 31% of all crashes involving a cell phone, 28% of single vehicle rollover crashes, 26% of rear end crashes and 11% of alcohol involved crashes.
“The Lincoln Police Department is asking parents to please take the time and sit down with your teen driver to discuss the importance of safe and responsible driving,” says Captain Todd Kocian. “This simple conversation could save their life.”