Sixty-one percent of teens admit to engaging in one or moredangerous habits such as speeding, cell phone use and textmessaging while driving a vehicle, according to a survey announcedyesterday.

The study was conducted in April by the American AutoAssociation and Seventeen Magazine.

“Motor vehicle crashes are the leading killer of teens, andthese types of behaviors can set the stage for tragedy,” saidPatrice Frazier, managing director of community affairs for theAutomobile Club of Southern California.

The nationwide survey involved 1,000 16- and 17-year-oldrespondents, AAA said.

Of the 1,000 respondents, 66 percent said they have exceededspeed limits by 10 mph or more; 51 percent admitted to talking onthe cell phone; 46 percent said they text message while operatingthe vehicle; and 11 percent have driven while under the influenceof alcohol, the study revealed.

But what makes these statistics unique when adults are prone tosuch habits?

“The difference between students and adults is when a 16- or17-year-old driver is doing these activities, they don't haveexperience to be driving safely while using them,” said MarieMontgomery, spokesperson for AAA of Southern California. “Adultscan have a conversation in the car because we've been driving for alonger time and have the experience.”

Ms. Frazier echoed the problem of inexperience.

“Teens are inexperienced drivers who need to focus on drivingand not be distracted by friends or other activities,” added Ms.Frazier.

Rates for teenagers are consistently higher versus the rates foradults, said Ms. Montgomery.

“People are rated based on experience, and teen drivers tend tohave higher insurance rates,” she added.

California's legislature, in an effort to reduce distractions,passed the Graduated Driving License Law, which requires teens notto carry passengers under the age of 20.

Teens are also prohibited from driving between 11 p.m. and 5a.m. in California unless accompanied by a licensed driver age 26or older, AAA noted.