For your kids, summertime may be the best season of the year. Long, sunny days give way to free non-school nights and make for months of fun.
However, summer is also one of the most dangerous times of year to drive, so much so that researchers have coined the term “100 deadliest days of summer.”
When are the 100 deadliest days of summer?
Based on a AAA study, the 100 deadliest days of summer occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. From 2010 to 2019, over 7,000 people died in teen-related summer crashes in the United States. Data from USAA’s SafePilot telematics app shows that Connecticut has one of the lowest distraction rates among teens.
What factors contribute to the dangers of summer driving?
Many factors contribute to the increase in teen driving-related accidents in the summer. For example, minor drivers have more time to be on the road when school is out of session. Teen drivers have limited experience, increasing the likelihood of a crash. Even an 18-year-old has, at most, a couple of years of legal driving experience. Making driving more risky, young people commonly carpool to summer parties and other activities, creating potentially deadly distractions in the car.
- Distractions: Interacting with other passengers, using a smartphone, apply makeup and trying to eat while behind the wheel can all contribute to crashes. According to We Save Lives, 60% of teen crashes result from distracted driving.
- Not using a seatbelt: According to the NHTSA , 53% of teens who died in a car accident in 2023 weren’t wearing a seat belt. Ensuring your teen understands that wearing a seatbelt is not only the law but the easiest way to stay safe behind the wheel can reduce the chance of injury or death in an accident.
- Speeding: Speeding is a factor in many accidents, and teens should understand when to reduce their speed such as when there is bad weather, construction, winding roads, etc.
There is no substitute for vigilant driving to prevent accidents. Reinforcing the importance of safe driving habits with your teen by modeling responsible behavior and discussing the issue with them may help keep your child and those around them safe on the road.
