Idaho ranks 23rd in U.S. for most teen-involved crash deaths per capita

BOISE — It’s the “100 Deadliest Days,” the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when many teens get their first experience driving on their own. But AAA warns that the learning curve can be steep, and at times, deadly – new teen drivers 16-17 years old are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash than their adult counterparts.

Idaho currently ranks 23rd in the country for most per-capita crash fatalities involving teen drivers. The Gem State is in the middle of the pack when compared with neighboring states.

Montana and Wyoming rank 1st and 2nd, respectively, with the most per-capita deaths in the U.S.

“In states with large rural areas, it may be tempting to think that somehow the wide-open spaces will prevent bad things from happening. But youthful inexperience can have dangerous consequences anytime, anywhere,” says AAA Idaho spokesman Matthew Conde. “Studies show that teen drivers benefit greatly from quality instruction by a trained professional, and ongoing coaching and support from their parents.”