Improving safety for teen drivers

Promoting Transportation Safety in Adolescence

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10485285

This study is looking for ways to help teens drive more safely and reduce car accidents by testing parenting programs and driving assessments during their learner's permit period.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10485285 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on reducing motor vehicle crashes among adolescents, who are at a higher risk of accidents. It aims to evaluate comprehensive parenting programs and on-road driver assessments that can enhance the driving skills of teens during their learner's permit period. By addressing the inexperience of young drivers, the study seeks to complement existing Graduated Driver Licensing programs, which primarily restrict access to high-risk driving situations. The goal is to identify effective interventions that can significantly lower the incidence of crashes involving teen drivers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are learning to drive or have recently obtained their driver's license.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the age range of 12 to 20 or those who are not involved in driving activities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer driving practices among adolescents, ultimately reducing the number of motor vehicle crashes and related injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that comprehensive driver education and parental involvement can improve driving outcomes for teens, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.