Why National Teen Driver Safety Week Was Started: Who, What & Why

Learn how National Teen Driver Safety Week was established by Congress and safety groups to address the rising teen crash rate.

​Discover the original sponsors, the driving statistics behind the initiative, and how it’s grown since its launch.

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🧑‍⚖️ Origins: A Response to a Growing Crisis
Motor vehicle crashes are consistently the leading cause of death for U.S. teens (ages 15-18). National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2023 there were 2,611 people killed in crashes involving a teen driver, with 822 of those being the teen themselves. Traffic Safety Marketing

To respond to this ongoing public-health issue, the week-long observance was officially established.

🏛️ The Official Establishment
In 2007, the U.S. Congress formally created National Teen Driver Safety Week through a resolution, supported by sponsors such as Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) and State Farm Insurance. Wikipedia

The idea: focus nationwide attention each October on teen-driving risks, behaviors, and prevention.

🎯 Purpose & Focus of the Week
The week is built around educating teens, parents, schools, and communities about the crash risks unique to young drivers. Key issues include:

• Distraction (cell phones, passengers)
• Speeding
• Not wearing seat belts
• Nighttime and peer-passenger driving

NHTSA emphasizes that the week isn’t just a one-time message — parent-teen conversations and safe driving habits should continue year-round. NHTSA

📈 How It’s Grown Over Time
From a Congressional resolution and a handful of safety-group partners, NTDSW has expanded into a broad, multi-stakeholder campaign with:

• Schools distributing pledges and safety contracts
• Insurance companies creating awareness materials
• State departments of transportation engaging teens
  As of 2025, NTDSW is in its 18th year of annual observance. Teen Driver Source

✅ Why It Matters for Families
For parents and teen drivers alike, NTDSW serves as a catalyst for action:

• A designated week reminds households to review rules and safe driving expectations.
• It provides reputable resources through NHTSA and affiliated organizations for fresh discussions and contract creation.
• It highlights how insurance and vehicle safety tie into driving habits and crash risk.

📝 Final Takeaway
National Teen Driver Safety Week began as a targeted response to alarming teen crash statistics, supported by Congress and safety organizations. It now serves not only as a spotlight week, but as a reminder that safe driving for teens is a continuous responsibility — for families, schools, and communities.
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At Corin Insurance, we encourage every family with a teen driver to use this week as a springboard for safe habits and protection through the years.

Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as legal or insurance advice. Always consult a licensed insurance agent or safety professional for personalized guidance.