More Texas teens die in traffic wrecks

AUSTIN (KXAN) - More teenagers in Texas die in traffic accidents than in any other state.

According to a report just released by Allstate, 556 teens lost their lives on Texas roadways in 2009.

The report also said Texas needs to strengthen its teen driving laws. A lot has changed throughout the last 10 years when it comes to teen driving laws in Texas.

Sarina Walden, who has a 17-year-old son, is getting a crash course.

"He's a pretty competent driver, but just the idea of him being so young and driving is scary to me," said Walden.

She also has 15-year-old twins, who are about to get their learner's permits.

"They're getting them over winter break," said Walden. "They're going to driving school, so now I have to worry about three people, instead of one."

In 2002, Texas placed new rules on young drivers -- limiting driving privileges the first year on the road.

Only one passenger under 21, who's not a family member, is allowed in the car. And driving between midnight and 5 a.m. is off limits.

In 2009, lawmakers went a step further and added no mobile talking or texting behind the wheel until drivers turn 18. And they nearly tripled the training time behind the wheel.

While you may think that's enough, a report released by the Allstate Foundation suggests there is still room for improvement.

They believe full driving privileges shouldn't come until the 18th birthday and that learner's permits shouldn't be allowed until teens turn 16.

"Fifteen, I think, is kind of nutty for getting your learner's permit," said Walden. "Yeah, I'd be all for it. My kids would kill me, but yeah."

The report estimates that those two changes alone could save 221 lives and nearly $1.5 billion every year.

Believe it or not, an Austin teenager with two years of driving under his belt supports tougher teen driving laws.

"My friends, well some of them are questionable drivers," said Jake Rivera, 18. "I think it might be good as far as driving at night because I think more accidents happen at night."

Congress is also considering phased-in driving privileges for teens as part of a new highway and transit spending bill.