Virginia Teen Driver Fatalities Rose This Year
As fatal crashes involving 15- to 19-year-olds climb, students must attend mandatory safety sessions.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Teens
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Teen driver deaths in Virginia reached 39 between January and September 2026, marking an increase from the 33 deaths reported during the same period in 2025. Students are now required to attend a Partners for Safe Teen Driving presentation to continue their behind-the-wheel training.
Why it matters
The rise in fatal accidents highlights a growing safety concern for families with teen drivers. Attending these mandated sessions helps ensure young drivers understand critical road safety measures to mitigate these risks.
Virginia saw 39 teen driver deaths among 15- to 19-year-olds through September 2026, up from 33 in the same timeframe last year. Students must attend one of five presentations to receive the DEC-1 card required for training.
The players
Partners for Safe Teen Driving
A safety program that mandates education sessions for students and parents to improve road safety.
The details
To complete the Partners for Safe Teen Driving requirement, students and parents must attend one of the designated safety presentations. Instructors at these sessions teach defensive practices, such as storing mobile phones in the glove compartment, to help keep teen drivers focused on the road. Attendance is mandatory for students to proceed with their behind-the-wheel training curriculum.
Timeline
33 teen driver deaths occurred from January to September 2025.
39 teen driver deaths occurred from January to September 2026.
Four additional safety presentations are scheduled for fall 2026 in Roanoke.
The Home Front
The uptick in fatalities contradicts recent efforts to stabilize teen driving outcomes across the state. This trend underscores the importance of ongoing safety mandates in the licensing process.
If you have a teen driver in the house, check the current schedule for local safety presentations to ensure you meet the mandatory attendance requirement. Review your household driving rules, including the practice of keeping mobile phones out of reach while behind the wheel.
The takeaway
Teen driver safety remains a critical priority for Virginia families as fatality numbers continue to rise. Ensure your student completes the required session for their DEC-1 card to stay on track for their license.
Further reading
Find more guidance on supporting your new driver in the Teens section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WSLS.
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Do you believe parents are the most important influence on a teen's driving behavior?
