100 Deadliest Days

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is referred to as the ‘100 Deadliest Days of Summer’ when the “average number of deadly teen driver crashes climbs 15%.” According to the CDC, teen drivers between the ages of 16-19 are three times more likely than drivers 20 and older to be involved in a deadly crash.

Another summer is making its way upon us and as we make plans for vacations and summer fun. ” This may be the time to relax and plan for summer fun but IT IS NOT the time to relax while driving, especially for your teens. Just look at some of the facts:

• Motor Vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens.
• Teens have the highest crash rate of any age group.
• An average of 260 teens are killed in car crashes each month during the summer, an increase of 26% compared with the other months of the year.
• 60% of teen crashes today are caused by distracted driving.
• Surprisingly, the top distraction for teens is other passengers, accounting for 15% of teen driver crashes, compared to 12 % caused by texting or talking on a cell phone.
• For every 100,000 Americans under the age of 21, 1.2 people were killed in drunk driving fatalities in 2015.
• Not only are teens themselves more likely to die in car crashes, but they also have the highest rates of crash involvement resulting in the deaths of others, including passengers, pedestrians, or occupants of other vehicles.

The 100 deadliest days are threatening primarily due to increased freedom, inexperience, and reckless behavior. The excitement of summer can lead to carelessness, and the increased number of vehicles on the road, including vacationers and other young drivers, exacerbates the situation.

TIPS FOR KEEPING TEEN DRIVERS SAFE

Ensuring the safety of teen drivers also contributes to overall road safety. Here’s how parents can help:

• Educate Your Teen: Share statistics and real-life stories about the consequences of reckless driving.
• Limit Passengers: More passengers often equate to more distractions. Limit the number of people your teen can have in the car.
• Enforce Traffic Laws: Ensure they obey speed limits, wear seat belts, and follow all traffic laws.
• Set Driving Curfews: Night driving is more dangerous due to lower visibility and fatigue. Establish sensible curfews.
• Be Available: Encourage them to call you if they ever feel unsafe or unable to drive.
• Lead by Example: Demonstrate responsible driving behavior.
• Familiarize Yourself with local traffic laws: Knowing the law can help in setting boundaries for your teen driver.