There is no aspect of traffic safety more urgent than the problem of the dangerous young driver under 25 years of age. Recent Michigan data are presented on types of fatal accidents which indicate that the single car, offthe-roadway crash is characteristic of young drivers.

Longitudinal cross-sectional studies of young drivers in Michigan are underway to probe the whys and wherefores of their driving behavior. Data from the Winter 1966-67 survey of 352 young male drivers suggest six driving categories:​ (A) safe younger, (B) safe older, (C) reformed, (D) unsafe, (E) dangerous--violations only, and (F) dangerous--accidents/violations.

Survey results in the important areas of risky driving behavior, involvement in cars, and social/emotional pressures are presented. The relationships between the six types are calculated as pair differences between types and are plotted as two-dimensional diagrams or 'polargrams.' For example, types B and F represent the extremes or opposite poles of behavior. Driver type D seems to be midway, uncommitted, and perhaps a target for preventive measures. Type C suggests a reformed young driver whose reasons for safer driving invite further study. Type E suggests a show-off personality with either better-than-average luck or driving skills.

Young drivers-in-transition require study of their lifesituations and life-styles as well as their driving styles. Better understanding of the norms and of the dangerous types should provide leverage points for preventive programs.