Age of Driver

The number of crashes by driver age varies greatly. Some age groups are over-represented in crashes. Sixteen- to 19-year-olds represent 3.6% of licensed drivers, but account for 9.3% of drivers in all crashes and 6.3% of drivers in fatal crashes. Other age groups are under-represented. For example, drivers 65 to 74 account for 13.3% of licensed drivers, but represent only 7.1% of drivers in all crashes and 8.1% of drivers in fatal crashes.

The overall crash rate per 100,000 licensed drivers steadily decreases as driver age increases. The same trend is generally true regarding the fatal crash rate, with the exception of an increase among 75 and older drivers.

Among the youngest drivers (under 25), the number of licensed drivers steadily increases from age 16 to 24, while the overall crash rate per 100,000 drivers steadily decreases. The fatal crash rate remains relatively flat from age 16 to 19 and decreases starting with 20-year-old drivers. Explore other crash trends by driver age group using the interactive chart.

  • Chart
  • Data Table
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Source: National Safety Council estimates.