(COLO) – Proms, graduations, warmer weather and college students returning home – May is a busy time for your household and your youngest drivers. Last year, May was also the peak month for at-fault crashes involving drivers aged 16-21 when looking at Colorado State Patrol investigation data. Of the 3,577 at-fault crashes by 16-21-year-olds investigated by troopers, 355 happened during the month of May.
Knowing that teens have the lowest usage rate for seat belts may increase your concern. “Some parents and teens falsely believe that airbags are enough to protect themselves in a crash, but airbags were designed to work with seat belts, not replace them,” explains Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “The force of an airbag can violently push you into the vehicle's interior or another passenger.”
Some of the most common injuries from airbags without a seat belt include whiplash, traumatic brain injuries, and neck and spine injuries.
Looking at the top causal factors for the 355 at-fault crashes by 16-21-year-olds in 2024, Colorado State Patrol investigators found:
- Inattentive to Driving (74)
- Lane Violations (59)
- Following too closely (59)
- Speeding (44)
- Failed to Yield Right of Way (26)
Studies have shown that as kids get older, they are less likely to want to buckle up,” stated Col. Packard. “Yet, despite what parents think, kids observe and learn from you as they age. Parents or caregivers are the top influence in whether your kids will buckle up.”
The Colorado State Patrol is launching a multi-month RU Clicking campaign to increase awareness and use of seat belts across Colorado. This campaign targets the youngest and newest drivers to close the gap between the 92% national seat belt use rate and Colorado’s 88% seat belt use rate. Buckle Like a Boss.
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ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs. In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more.