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New Study and Vehicle Recommendations Aim to Reduce Teen Driving Fatalities

Research highlights heightened risks for teens in older cars, while experts release a list of safe, affordable vehicles for families.

Teenage girl driver in glasses sitting behind wheel of car.
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Overview

  • A JAMA Network Open study shows teens driving cars over 15 years old face a 31% higher fatal crash risk compared to newer vehicles.
  • Each driver assistance feature, such as automatic emergency braking, reduces teen driver fatality risk by 6%, according to the study.
  • The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports released a 2025 list of 144 recommended vehicles for teens, including 74 budget-friendly used models under $10,000.
  • The list excludes mini cars, high-performance vehicles, and SUVs due to handling and crash protection concerns.
  • Experts urge families to prioritize newer vehicles with advanced safety technologies to mitigate teens' elevated crash risks.