Rochester, N.Y. - What has long been a parent's instinct is now backed up by new research: Risky behaviors behind the wheel increase when passengers are onboard.
AAA conducted a study of 16 and 17-year old drivers involved in fatal crashes. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found that:
*The prevalence of speeding increased from 30 percent to 44 percent and 48 percent with zero, two and three or more teen passengers, respectively.
*The prevalence of late-night driving (11 p.m. to 5 a.m.) increased from 17 percent to 22 percent and 28 percent with zero, two and three or more teen passengers, respectively.
*The prevalence of alcohol use increased from 13 percent to 17 percent and 18 percent with zero, two and three or more teen passengers, respectively.
AAA will hold a free "Start Smart" Teen Driving Seminars at the Penfield Travel and Insurance Center at 2156 Penfield Road on Thursday, November 8 at 6:30 p.m. To register, call (800) 836-CLUB (2582).
