2019's worst states for teen drivers

For teens around the country, nothing rivals the thrill of receiving a driver's license. But for parents, it's an anxiety-inducing worry trap, especially considering motor vehicle accidents continue to be the leading cause of death for 16-to 19-year-olds. According to the CDC, young people aged 15-19 represented 6.5% of the U.S. population in 2016; however, they accounted for an estimated $13.6 billion (8.4%) of the total costs of motor vehicle injuries. From inexperience and reckless driving to distracted driving and texting, teens are eager to throw inhibition out the window when they first get behind the wheel. As important as safe driving habits are, a teen's driving environment also plays a role in road safety. Recently, WalletHub analyzed the teen driving environment in each of the 50 states using 23 key metrics, including number of teen driver fatalities, average cost of car repairs and presence of impaired driving laws. Maryland, New York, Massachusetts, Louisiana and Texas earned top spots as the country's five safest states for teen drivers — which states were named the worst? Review the slideshow above to find out. Related:

• 10 best states for teen drivers
• 5 most expensive states for insuring a teen driver
• 2018's 10 worst states to drive in