Virginia Young Driver Crash Facts
2001
There were 144,585 traffic crashes reported. (DMV)
There were 935 total fatalities. (DMV)
There were 80,187 total injuries. (DMV)
There were 358 alcohol-related fatalities. (DMV)
There were 8,211 alcohol-related injuries. (DMV)
28,478 persons tested with a BAC .08 percent or greater. (DMV)
The average BAC of tested drinking drivers was 0.0376 percent. (DMV)
A BAC as low as .02 percent has been shown to affect driving ability. The probability of a crash rises significantly after the BAC reaches .05 percent and even more rapidly after about .08 percent. (IIHS)
A driver with a BAC of 0.15 percent is 300 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash. (NHTSA)
A Closer Look at This Years Fatal Crashes Involving 18 to 20 year olds
Primary causes of the crashes included:
Driver inexperience
Driver distraction
Excessive speed
Low usage of safety belts
Use of alcohol
This information provided by the Department of Motor Vehicles
Nine basic actions that can minimize the number of crashes
Inexperienced, as well as experienced drivers, can prevent crashes by avoiding distractions and maintaining control of their vehicles. The following basics will help drivers with all levels of experience perform safely behind the wheel. But before you do anything BUCKLE-UP. And, be sure all of your passengers are buckled up.
1.Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel.
2.Set or adjust the controls on the vehicle and other devices as soon as you get in the car.
3.Keep your body alert .
4.Avoid using a cell or wireless telephone.
5.Anticipate the traffic and the environment around you.
6.Know the type of braking system that your vehicle uses.
7.Reduce your speed and increase your following distance.
8.Maintain the speed limit.
9.Avoid sudden moves or over-corrections.
Remember, always fasten your safety belt and make sure everyone in your vehicle is securely buckled up. Never drink and drive or ride with someone who has been drinking.