“It’s Not Me Driving Dangerously — It’s Them”

  
       

Erie, PA, Aug. 23, 2007

News Facts

  • Year after year, auto crashes are the number one killer of U.S. teens. In fact, according to the National Safety Council, young drivers are involved in fatal traffic crashes at more than twice the rate as the rest of the population.
  • In a recent survey of 1,356 teens conducted by Erie Insurance and Lookin’ Out, the company’s teen driving awareness program, many high school students freely admit to risky behavior while driving.
    • 58 percent sometimes or often talk on a cell phone.
    • 52 percent sometimes or often read or send text messages.
    • 10 percent sometimes or often drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
  • However, the Erie Insurance survey measured attitudes and perceptions as well as behaviors.
    • Nearly all (96 percent) of the respondents reported seeing other teens taking risks (speeding, not wearing seatbelts, etc.) while driving.
    • In addition, nearly all (95 percent) consider themselves to be good drivers — but less than half (42 percent) think their friends are good drivers.
  • The written survey was conducted among licensed drivers aged 16-19 at 20 Lookin’ Out participant schools during the 2007 spring semester.

Quotes

  • “These survey results reveal a real discrepancy between how students perceive their own driving habits and how they judge others’.” – Matt Bresee, Lookin’ Out program administrator
  • “It’s crucial that teens avoid taking unnecessary risks while driving — and it’s equally important that they avoid riding with others who are engaging in risky behaviors such as speeding, text-messaging or driving under the influence.” – John Brinling, president & CEO, Erie Insurance

Links

About Erie Insurance

Known for competitive rates and superior service, Erie Insurance Group is a leading property/casualty insurer in the United States. With more than 3.8 million policies in force, Erie Insurance Group includes seven companies operating in 11 states and the District of Columbia and is rated A+ (superior) by A.M. Best Company. Erie Indemnity Company (Nasdaq: ERIE) is the management company for Erie Insurance Group. Headquartered in Erie, Pa., since 1925, Erie Insurance provides auto, home, business and life insurance through more than 8,200 independent agents representing more than 1,800 agencies. Erie Insurance Group ranks No. 463 among the FORTUNE 500 and is included in FORBES "Platinum 400" list of America's best-managed companies. For more information and a listing of independent agents representing Erie Insurance in your community, visit the company's Web site at http://www.erieinsurance.com/

      
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