Final answer:
Motor vehicle traffic injuries were the leading cause of death among persons aged 1 to 24 years in the U.S. according to 2006 data. These injuries are a significant public health issue, with traffic accidents being a major cause of head and traumatic brain injuries. On average, eight teens die every day in the U.S. from motor vehicle injuries. Option b. is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
Motor vehicle traffic injuries (2006 data) were the leading cause of death in the U.S. among persons aged 1 to 24 years. Traffic-related incidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are a major public health concern, especially when it comes to the younger segments of the population. Young drivers are often at increased risk due to factors such as inexperience, which can contribute to driver error. The CDC has reported that head and traumatic brain injuries, which can result from motor vehicle accidents, are significant causes of injury-related deaths.
Motor vehicle accidents and their consequences have been the subject of various statistical analyses. For instance, while in 1999 motor vehicle crashes were a more common cause of accidental death compared to drug overdoses, by 2014, this trend had reversed. Nevertheless, traffic accidents remain a leading concern for adolescents and policymakers, prompting debates on driving age regulations. While on average eight teens die from motor vehicle injuries every day in the United States, it's not common for there to be more than 20 teen deaths from such injuries on a given day.
The impact of traffic accidents is widespread, affecting not just individuals and families, but also public health resources and policies. States are continuously evaluating and improving their traffic laws and safety measures, such as the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) programs, to reduce the risk of motor vehicle injuries among young drivers. However, the responsibility also lies within the driver, where adhering to safety regulations and avoiding distracted driving can reduce the occurrence of such tragic incidents.