New York Tops List as Best State for Teen Drivers in 2024
New York has been recognized as the best state for teen drivers, according to a recent analysis by WalletHub. The personal finance website evaluated 23 criteria related to teen driving safety, including fatality rates, insurance costs, and the presence of critical driving laws.
Key Metrics and Rankings
- Fewest Teen Driver Fatalities: New York ranks second in the nation for the fewest teen driver fatalities per 100,000 teens, demonstrating a strong safety record.
- Teen DUIs: The state also holds the seventh spot for the lowest rates of teen DUIs per 100,000 teens.
- Car Repair Costs: New York is ranked 23rd in terms of the average cost of car repairs.
- Driving Laws: The state excels in having laws that combat distracted driving, including texting-while-driving bans, ranking first in this category.
- Insurance Premiums: New York ranks 26th for the increase in insurance premiums after adding a teen driver to a parent’s policy.
- Graduated Licensing Program: The state is rated first for its graduated licensing program laws, which are designed to help young drivers gain experience gradually.
- Vehicle Miles Traveled: New York also leads with the highest per capita vehicle miles traveled.
- Occupant Protection and Impaired-Driving Laws: New York ranks first in both occupant-protection laws and impaired-driving regulations.
Why New York Stands Out
Despite its notorious traffic congestion, particularly in major cities, New York’s low teen driver fatality rate and effective safety measures set it apart. The state’s extensive network of driving schools and stringent driving laws contribute to its high rankings in teen driving safety metrics.
WalletHub highlights that New York’s comprehensive approach to driving safety, including its adherence to optimal driving laws recommended by safety advocates, and its relatively low auto insurance premiums, makes it a model state for teen drivers.
Also Read: “New York State Urges Drivers to Go Green: ‘Don’t Drive’ on These Days”
