In March of 2025, Consumer Affairs published an analysis on teenage drivers in the United States. The researchers determined that Missouri has the “fourth worst for teen drivers overall.” It is an alarming finding for parents in our region because teenagers in all 50 states are more likely to get into a crash than the average. Here, our Kansas City motor vehicle accident attorney provide a more comprehensive overview of the report.
Missouri Teen Driving Safety in Crisis: Among the Worst in the Nation
As found in the study conducted by Consumer Affairs, Missouri ranks as the fourth most dangerous state for teen drivers. Unfortunately, our state has a fatal crash rate that far exceeds the national average. Shockingly, teen driver deaths in Missouri occur at more than twice the national rate. Teen drivers were involved in speed-related crashes at a rate nearly three times higher than the national average. Notably, poor road conditions may exacerbate the danger that teen drivers face in our state. Consumer Affairs found Missouri has some of the worst roads in the country—especially in rural areas. The state’s current graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws also remain among the country’s most lenient. Teens are permitted to drive solo until 1 A.M. in Missouri.
Teen Driving Safety Tips that Parents in Missouri Can Use
1. You Should Model Safe Driving Behavior
Your teen is watching your every move behind the wheel—what you do matters more than what you say. Model safe behaviors like obeying speed limits, staying off the phone, and remaining calm under pressure. A consistent example goes a long way in shaping lifelong driving habits.
2. You Can Set a Far Strict Curfew for Night Driving
Night driving is more dangerous. Although Missouri law allows teens to drive alone until 1 a.m., the data is clear that the risk of fatal crashes increases significantly after dark. Parents should set their own household curfew—ideally no later than 10 p.m.—to reduce nighttime driving risks.
3. You Should Help Your Teen Driver Practice
Inexperience is one of the leading reasons why teen drivers crash at a higher rate. Practice is a must. Missouri’s rural and urban roads are among the worst in the nation, with potholes, narrow lanes, and limited lighting. Supervised practice on these road types can help teens build confidence.
4. You Must Make Seat Belt Use a Requirement
Wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent serious injury in a crash. It should be noted that Missouri law only mandates seat belt use for front-seat passengers. Parents can and should enforce strict seat belt rules (back seat passengers as well).
5. You Should Take the Keys if Your Teen Breaks the Rules
What happens if your teen driver breaks the rules? You can and should take your keys back. Whether your teen is speeding, staying out past curfew, or using their phone while behind the wheel, it is imperative that you punish unsafe behavior. It could save your teenager’s life.
Set Up a Free Case Review With a Kansas City Automobile Accident Attorney Today
At House Law LLC, our Kansas City car accident attorney is committed to fighting for justice for victims and families. If your teenager was involved in a collision, we are here as a legal resource. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case review. With an office in Kansas City, we represent motor vehicle accident victims in Missouri and Kansas.
Tags: brain injury, personal injury, traumatic brain injury
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