Car crashes are the number one killer of teens today, and teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes at three times the rate of adult drivers. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), in 2010 seven teens ages 16-19 died every day from motor vehicle injuries. Despite these statistics, for many years teen traffic safety didn’t receive attention or funding equal to the challenge, perhaps because there wasn’t a “voice” for the issue on Capitol Hill.

Automobile crashes are the leading cause of death for teens.  In Tennessee alone, more than 70,000 young drivers were involved in a traffic collision in 2013.  Many factors – including inexperience, alcohol, speeding, cell phones, and other countless distractions – all contribute to these crashes, with many resulting in death.

Teens Learn Alcohol Danger: MADD Sponsored Alcohol Safety Awareness Program For Seniors

MADD's Phaedra Marriott-Olsen has been very busy this April, traveling the state and speaking at schools for Alcohol Awareness Month. She shares her own personal story and talks about MADD's messaging geared toward the prevention of underage drinking at a time of year when prom and graduation festivities often tempt teens to make potentially life-threatening choices.