NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Speeding, distracted driving and alcohol are putting teenagers at risk on the road, with teen vehicle deaths on the rise.

Tennessee is listed among the most dangerous states for teenage drivers.

Schools are out for the summer, which means more people are hitting the road, including teen drivers.

“They just don’t have the experience yet, like anyone that is new to anything that you’re doing,” Tennessee Highway Patrol Lt. Bill Miller said.

Troopers said teenagers’ driving inexperience can be dangerous.

According to the most recent data from Zutobi.com in 2023, Tennessee had 41 deaths for every 100,000 teenage drivers.

“Tennessee is quite a unique state,” remarked Miller. “The population is rising, motor vehicle traffic is increasing, and we still have numerous rural highways, which create challenges for young drivers.”

Investigators said the top causes for teenage driving deaths are alcohol, distracted driving and speeding.

“The slower you go, the safer you are,” Miller said.

They also encouraged drivers to buckle up.

“We frequently observe young white males driving unrestrained in pick-up trucks,” Miller noted. “The reason behind this behavior is unclear, but we are diligently working to understand, educate, and address it.”

Troopers said parents should talk with their teens about safe driving habits to help prevent a heartbreaking knock at the door.

“When we show up at their doorstep, they immediately realize we’re not there with good news,” Miller explained. “Their world collapses as they learn their child has died in a car accident.”

Zutobi.com ranked Tennessee as the third most dangerous state for teen drivers behind Mississippi and Kentucky. Alaska is considered the safest state.