Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, a season filled with road trips, family vacations, and increased freedom for teen drivers. However, people also call the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day the “100 Deadliest Days.”
Historically, it is the most dangerous time of year for teen drivers in the United States. According to The National Road Safety Foundation, teens are 20% more likely to be involved in a fatal crash in the summer months than during the rest of the year.
Why is Summer Driving More Dangerous for Teens?
Several factors contribute to the rise in teen driving fatalities during the summer:
- More time on the road: With school out, teens spend more time driving to jobs, social events, vacations, and activities
- Inexperience behind the wheel: Teen drivers are more likely than older drivers to be involved in crashes because of limited driving experience
- Distracted driving: Distractions such as passengers, cell phones, eating, and adjusting music can increase the risk of car crashes
- Speeding: Driving too fast continues to play a major role in deadly accidents
- Impaired driving: Alcohol use remains a serious risk factor in fatal crashes
Safe Driving Tips for Teens
Teen drivers can reduce their risk of crashes by following a few important safety habits.
- Limit passengers in your vehicle
- Always obey speed limits, traffic signs, and signals
- Wear your seat belt every time you drive or ride in a vehicle
- Never drink and drive or ride with someone who has been drinking
- Get enough rest before driving to avoid drowsy driving
- Stay focused by putting away phones and avoiding unnecessary distractions while driving
How Parents Can Keep Their Teen Drivers Safe
Parents can play a key role in helping teens develop safe driving habits and stay safe behind the wheel by:
- Setting clear rules about passengers, curfews, phone use, and seatbelt use.
- Limiting nighttime driving, especially in the first year.
- Installing a tracking app or device to monitor driving habits.
- Most importantly, leading by example with safe driving behavior.
What is the “100 Safest Days of Summer?”
The National Road Safety Foundation encourages families and teens to make summer safer by practicing responsible driving habits. Their initiative is called the “100 Safest Days of Summer,” a campaign focused on reducing crashes and promoting safe driving during the busy summer months.
Along with following the driving safety tips, families can strengthen accountability by taking the safe driving pledge together. This pledge represents a shared commitment to making smart, responsible choices behind the wheel. Summer should be a time of fun and freedom. By taking the time to discuss expectations with your teen, you can help avoid potential tragedy.
What to Do After a Collision With a Teen Driver
Being injured in a crash involving a teen driver can raise unique concerns, but your legal rights are the same as in any other collision. You may still have the right to pursue a claim for your injuries and losses.
Steps to take after the crash:
- Call 911 and report the collision
- Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor
- Exchange information and document the scene with photos of vehicles, damage, and injuries
- Ask about insurance coverage and whether the teen is listed under a parent or guardian’s policy
- Speak with a personal injury attorney to understand your options and next steps
In some cases, additional factors such as distracted driving, impairment, or violations of licensing restrictions (including passenger limits or curfew rules) may be relevant to your claim.
An experienced attorney can help you understand how these details may impact your case and guide you through the process ahead.
Speak to an Experienced Washington Personal Injury Attorney Today
Involved in a car accident? An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and legal options after an auto collision.
GLP Attorneys has decades of experience representing individuals and families injured in car accidents across the Pacific Northwest. We provide trusted guidance and strong advocacy to help clients move forward after serious injuries.
Call (800) 273- 5005 for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney.
