Teens can get a driver’s license as young as age 16 and, according to the New York Department of Health, car crashes are the biggest reason for accidental deaths in 16- and 17-year-olds.

Not every accident or tragedy can be prevented, but when it comes to teen drivers behind the wheel, there are precautions that can make driving a little safer.

One of the biggest things AAA driving instructor Eric Smith suggests is spending more time behind the wheel. He says inexperience can be one of biggest causes of a crash with young drivers.

AAA research says a majority of teens get their licenses before they're 18. According to the CDC, almost 2,400 teenagers in the United States aged 13-19 were killed in 2019 due to car crashes.

The organization uses the acronym READ – Right speed for right now; Eyes up; Anticipate their next move; Donut of space around your vehicle – to stress staying as safe as possible while driving.