The 100 Deadliest Days Have Begun

Memorial Day weekend marked the unofficial start of summer and unfortunately, a dangerous time of year for young drivers. Nationwide, more than 30 percent of deaths involving teen drivers occurs during what’s called the: “100 Deadliest Days” - a period that runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

“Now that the CDC has lifted many COVID-19 Pandemic Restrictions, young adults are eager to reconnect with friends, which means young inexperienced drivers will spend more time on the roads,” said Mark Jenkins, spokesman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “This increases the chances that they’re involved in a crash and for every mile driven, new teen drivers (ages 16-17 years old) are three times more likely, to be involved in a deadly crash, compared to adults.”

100 Deadliest Days
statistics from 2010 - 2019

Nationwide
• Each year, an average of 2,081 teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes; 636 of those (30%) occurred, during the 100 deadliest days.
• More than 7,038 people died, in teen-related summertime crashes, from 2010 to 2019.
• That’s more than seven people a day, each summer compared to the rest of the year (six people/day).

Florida
• An average of 36 teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes during this time.
• On average, 158 people are killed in teen driver-related crashes every year; 40 of those occur during the 100 deadliest days.
• 400 people were killed in teen driver-related crashes, during the past 10 summers.

Traffic crashes are the leading cause of death for U.S. teens ages 16-19. In fact, six teens are killed each day in crashes that are entirely preventable. Per miles driven, teen drivers are nearly three times more likely, than drivers aged 20 and older, to be killed in a crash. Even the best and brightest teens, have an increased risk, of being involved, in a deadly crash.

“Teens lack the experience, skills and maturity of a seasoned driver, which contribute to an increase in the chance that, there will be a deadly outcome, not just for the teen driver, but also for any passenger, as well as others on the road,” Jenkins continued. “So, we all have a vested interest, in ensuring that teens are safe behind the wheel.”

Understanding the risks and knowing the facts, will prepare, both, you and your teen(s) for the road ahead. Here are some of the highest risk factors for teens.

Driving with passengers. Teen drivers’ crash risks multiply, when they have teen passengers, so, set limits and enforce them.

Driving at night. Night driving is more dangerous due to limited visibility, fatigue and impaired drivers, on the road. This is especially, a risky time for teens. Limit the time that your novice driver spends, behind the wheel, at night.

Not wearing a safety belt. Wearing a safety belt, greatly reduces the risk of being hurt or killed in a crash. Make a rule: Everyone buckles up, for every trip.

Speeding. Speeding, is a leading factor in crashes for teens and adults. Teens need to follow posted speed limits and parents, should set a good example and have strong rules.

Distracted driving. Teen passengers, are the biggest distraction to teen drivers, but, cell phones, come in second. Many teens admit to interacting with their phone and in-car infotainment systems while behind the wheel, despite the clear dangers. Make a family rule, covering these and other distractions, that everyone abides by.

Drowsy driving. Teens have a hard time getting enough sleep and often struggle with drowsiness. Drowsy driving, is as dangerous as drunk driving and teens, have the highest risks. Ensure everyone who is behind the wheel, has gotten enough sleep.

Impaired driving. Driving impaired from alcohol and other drugs puts everyone at risk. Enforce strict zero tolerance rules with your teen and be, a good role model.

Advice for Parents
Talk with teens early and often about abstaining from dangerous behavior behind the wheel, such as speeding, impairment and distracted driving. Teach by example, minimize all risky behaviors, when you drive. Establish a parent-teen driving agreement, that sets family rules for all drivers. Conduct at least 50 hours of supervised practice driving with your teen(s). Enroll your teen, in both on-line and in-person, driving courses.

On-line Driving School
AAA offers a comprehensive on-line education course for new drivers, how to drive on-line, is a 25 hour supplemental course. This course delivers the rules and essential elements of safe driving in an interactive and innovative way. This on-line program aims to ensure that safe driving habits are developed and are maintained, for life.

To find out more about approved driving schools in your area,
call: (888) 222-7108. E-mail us at: DriverTraining2@acg.aaa.com.
Or visit our web-site at: https://autoclubsouth.aaa.com/safety/adsn.aspx