Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of fatalities for teens nationally, resulting in 40% of teen deaths. Five primary factors contribute to teen vehicle accidents including distraction, speed, alcohol, non-use of seatbelts, and inexperience. While these causes disproportionately affect young drivers, resulting in fatal traffic crashes at over twice the rate of the rest of the population, we can prevent accidents arising from these factors.

"We know that all of these factors are preventable, and there are corrective measures that can drive down these statistics. The call today is to take action and determine what we can do collectively to save the lives of young Iowans," stated Kevin W. Techau, Commisioner, Iowa Department of Public Safety.

On September 21, 2005, the Iowa Department of Public Safety hosted the Traffic Safety Policy Summit to draw attention to the leading cause of teen deaths, develop real solutions that will save the lives of young Iowans, and engage a coalition of interested individuals and organizations to advocate for change. The Summit brought together law enforcement, transportation, and education experts as well as policymakers to examine the facts and develop a series of recommended policy initiatives. Attendees participated in a series of breakout sessions that explored improving and expanding current policies and examined the barriers to advancing policy improvements aimed at prevention. Iowa legislators participated in the Summit through a panel discussion, providing feedback on the proposed policy initiatives.

Please use the links below to view the Coalition Card and the Traffic Safety Summit Proceedings.