BOTHELL, Wash. - A study released by Allstate Insurance Co. found that the Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area is among the least deadly American cities for teen drivers.

The "Allstate America's Teen Driving Hotspots" study ranked Seattle 40th out of 50 cities surveyed.

The study found that Seattle's urban driving environment works in its favor. Fatal crash rates for teens are double in rural areas compared with cities and suburbs. In Washington State, the per capita fatality rate among rural teen drivers is 38.9, compared with 18.9 in metro areas of the state.

"Even one fatality is too high," said Michelle Lee, Allstate Northwest Region Field Vice President. "But we are gratified that our efforts are working in Seattle to educate parents and teens about safe driving."

The study, which reviewed 2000-2006 federal crash statistics and Allstate claims data on teen driving fatalities, found that in 49 percent of the fatal crashes involving teens in the metro area, speeding was cited as a factor.

The 100 days beginning with Memorial Day and ending with Labor Day are historically the most deadly for teens behind the wheel.

Lee said Washington has made great strides in promoting driver safety through mandatory seatbelt laws, graduated drivers licenses and by banning texting and talking on handheld cell phones while driving.

"And parents should start talking to their teens - even before they get behind the wheel - about smart driving decisions, while setting a good example through their own good driving behavior," she said.

Portland ranked No. 43 on the list.