Data from the New York State Department of Health shows that around 10 people are killed or have to visit a hospital for their injuries after being involved in car accidents caused by teen drivers. The risk of auto accidents is highest in the 16-to-19 year age group as compared to all other ages.

The causes of teen auto accidents are many and diverse, but most of them stem from behaviors that are typical for that age. Data from New York City teen car accidents show that teen drivers often resort to speeding and driving without paying sufficient attention to the road. They have a tendency to follow other vehicles too closely and not yield to other drivers and generally tend to drive in an unsafe manner.

Under New York law, a person who has been involved in an accident that resulted in damage to property or personal injury, must remain at the site of the accident and report it. However, most people do not wish to be held liable for their involvement and therefore, they flee from the accident scene, willfully ignoring the law.