Every year in northern British Columbia 320 people are injured or killed in crashes involving teen drivers.
Now the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) has launched an awareness campaign with a road safety speaker and a paramedic travelling across northern B.C. talking to high school students about their experiences.
According to the ICBC 19% of drivers speeding in crashes resulting in injury or death are 16 to 21 years old. Yet these young drivers make up only 6% of all licensed B.C. drivers.
The top contributing factors for youth in fatal crashes are speeding (36%), distracted driving (23%) and impaired driving (20%).
Tiana Tozer, a two-time USA Paralympic medalist and humanitarian worker in Iraq, is discussing how her life changed when she was injured in a crash with an impaired driver at 20 years old.
Meanwhile paramedic, Ted Swan, will talk about his experience as a first responder at crash scenes to explain the science involved in a crash for both the vehicle and passengers.
“We’re thrilled our speakers are back sharing their personal stories to help teens realize the potentially devastating impact that unsafe driving decisions can have not only on themselves but their loved ones and community,” said Lindsay Matthews, vice president of customer experience and public affairs.
“We encourage adults to also speak to the teens in their lives to create safer roads for everyone.â€
