Teen Deaths by Accident, Homicide, and Suicide With teen violence on the rise, this indicator is frequently highlighted in the media. It is important to note, however, that accidents in the form of vehicle accidents continue to account for far more teen deaths that either homicide or suicide. Late adolescence poses serious peril to young people. Youth in this age group are almost three times as likely to die as their younger counterparts. Teenagers as a group are more willing to take risks, less likely to use safety belts, and are more susceptible to the effects of alcohol. Teens with a history of psychiatric disorders, exposure to suicide, disruption of the family, and exposure to violence are at greatest risk for suicide. Graduated licensing programs for teen drivers, access to mental health facilities, crisis intervention programs in schools, as well as family and community support groups are suggested as protective factors to help reduce teen death. Back to Wilmington KIDS COUNT Menu