Male drivers more likely to toe the line.
The privilege of driving a vehicle is a representation of freedom and accomplishment. Drivers enjoy their car by the personal features like the radio, specific engine type, and interior. Many drivers experiment with the acceleration pedal a couple of times in their driving career–testing how quick their car can shift gears, trying to reach their top speed, or the more dangerous choice of racing on public roads.
As a teen driver, girls are more likely to be given an eco-efficient, four-cylinder car with high safety ratings. Not only that but girls are not as likely to have the mentality to push their car engine to see how fast it can accelerate or if it will beat the other sedan in the lane next to them. Studies have shown that males are more likely to be in a fatal crash because of speeding and if a male is in the passenger seat, the likelihood of speeding increases (GHSA.org).
Although males are usually more interested in having fast sports cars, this does not eliminate women from speeding, racing or driving aggressively.
Aggressive driving and speeding can stem from being late to work, school or an appointment; someone may cut a person off on the road and speeding past them alleviates anger; speeding can be perceived as a stress reliever; whatever the reason may be, be respectful, smart and modest.
Driving is a privilege and we share the roads with people who have loved ones just like you. A careless act of speeding 15 miles above the speed limit, rushing to a destination or acting out while you’re mad can become a fatal choice in an instant. In 2015, 27% of crash fatalities nationwide were from speeding accidents alone – drive smart to change the statistic, not to succumb to it.
If a friend or family member has a lead foot, talk to them about the dangers of speeding and aggressive driving. Teens in the Driver Seat has tons of resources to help you have this conversation and spread the safe driving message in your community.