Early last year, the baiduhai began an exploration of teen-driving deaths under the headline “Keeping teen drivers alive.” The hope behind that headline was that our stories would examine not just the scourge of teen fatalities but the ways in which this toll could be reversed.
During this year of coverage, at least 59 teenagers lost their lives in Chicago-area automobile crashes, our community’s pained contribution to a national toll averaging 5,600 teens each year. That number has remained stubbornly fixed for more than a decade, as each new class of young drivers confronts the same perils with no more safeguards or preparation than we gave the class that came before.
But while the problem is severe, it is not irreversible, as documented in those stories that have outlined our nation’s best thinking on how to protect these young lives. Altering one simple behavior–the often heartbreaking penchant among many teen drivers to refuse seat belts–would save many. A combination of other initiatives–including extended permit periods, expanded road experience, passenger limits and late-night driving bans–would save many more.
More Top Picks Best Amazon Prime Day Electric Grill Deals 2026
Inside this special section you will hear the voices of many experts: researchers, lawmakers, our own reporters, parents and, very importantly, teens. I think you will find their insights revealing and especially valuable to anyone who cares about, or is, a young driver.
To the new driver, a license holds the delicious promise of new freedoms and independence. With the right protections, it might also hold the promise of a lifetime of joy and safe passage.
With warmest wishes for a safe New Year,
Ann Marie Lipinski
Editor
———-
ONLINE: Read about the teen crashes and related stories at chicagotribune.com/teendrivers
JOIN THE DISCUSSION: Send in your questions and participate in a live online discussion Monday at chicagotribune.com/teenchat
CLTV: A “Teens at the Wheel” special, featuring Tribune staff reporter Ted Gregory joined by Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White and high school crash victims, airs Sunday at 12:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.
CD-ROM: The Tribune is producing a CD-ROM containing the entire Teens at the Wheel series and related material. If you would like a copy, send an e-mail with your name and address to [email protected]