Road traffic accidents: young adults particularly at risk
On average, 32 young adults are killed and 450 others seriously injured on Swiss roads each year. Often it happens when they are driving a car or riding a motorcycle. In a new safety dossier, the AAIB shows what is important in driver training. At the same time, vehicles and road infrastructure must become even safer.
Young adults aged 18 to 24 suffer an above-average number of serious traffic accidents as car and motorcycle drivers compared to other age groups. The AAIB has analyzed the risk factors of this age group and identified possible prevention measures. The results are now available: The safety dossier published today shows how to respond to the high annual Victim Count (32 dead, 450 seriously injured) should be responded to.
The reasons for the high Accident risk in early adulthood are complex: On the one hand, experience and routine, which are extremely important for safety, are understandably lacking in the initial phase. On the other hand, 18- to 24-year-olds are still in the phase of growing up. This is accompanied by a certain tendency to overestimate oneself, risky behavior and alcohol consumption.
Distracted driving even more dangerous for young drivers
There are also other age-specific risks: Because many have not yet fully internalized vehicle operation, distractions - such as cell phone use behind the wheel - are all the more dangerous for young drivers. Carrying passengers of the same age, peer pressure or the search for exciting experiences can also play a part, especially for young men.
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