Safety Groups Say Teen Traffic Deaths Rising in Virginia

Safety groups are urging teenage drivers in Virginia to wear seat belts and slow down following a sharp increase in fatal wrecks.

Preliminary statistics show that traffic accidents killed 11 people ages 16 to 20 between Jan.1 and Jan. 24. Three teens died in traffic accidents during the same period in 2011.

Mary King with Youth of Virginia Speak Out says in a news release that the increase is significant. Her group and the Blue Ridge Regional Crash Investigation Team are seeking to raise awareness of the issue and to encourage teen drivers to be safety-conscious.

The groups also are asking parents to monitor their children’s driving and set clear rules.