Summer is a great time for family vacations, road trips, and outdoor activities. However, with school out for the summer, it can also be one of the most deadly seasons for teen drivers. In fact, the period from the unofficial start of summer Memorial Day to Labor Day is one of the riskiest times to be on the road. This dangerous time is also known as “The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer, during this time there is a spike in teen deaths on roadways In fact, more than 7,000 individuals lost their lives in teen driving-related crashes from 2010 to 2019 the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
While several contributing factors lead to these fatal crashes, the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention reveal that motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of death for teen drivers. While these facts can be disturbing, it’s important to understand what specific factors contribute to these dangers for teen drivers during the summer season. We will also provide essential safety tips for teen drivers so that they can stay safe during this summer season.
Summertime Dangers: What Factors Put Teens at Risk?
Speeding
So, what makes summer such a dangerous time for teen drivers? One of the biggest dangers is speeding. Many teens feel the need to speed and drive recklessly during this season. Whether they are late for their summer job or trying to get to the beach before it gets too crowded, speeding plays a significant role in fatal crashes.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents, and it is even more dangerous for teen drivers who are inexperienced behind the wheel.
Distracted Driving
Did you know that driver distraction plays a part in roughly 6 out of 10 teen crashes? With so many distractions during this season, from friends in the car to events happening outside, it can be easy for a teen driver to take their eyes off the road. This can lead to serious accidents, especially if the teen is multitasking behind the wheel and not paying attention to their surroundings.
Inexperienced Drivers
According to research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, new teen drivers ages 16-17 are three times as likely as adults to be involved in a deadly crash. One of the main reasons that teen drivers are more likely to crash in the summer is because they are inexperienced drivers. They have not had as much time behind the wheel as older drivers, and they may not know how to handle certain situations.
Driving Under The Influence
Driving while impaired is also a major danger for teen drivers during summer. Whether they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, driving while impaired can lead to fatal accidents. It is vital for teens to always drive sober and be aware of their surroundings when behind the wheel.
Other Factors That Lead To Fatal Teen Crashes
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Not buckling the seat belt properly while in the car.
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Reckless and aggressive driving.
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Traffic congestion.
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Disobeying traffic laws.
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Peer pressure.
Safety Tips For Teen Drivers To Prevent a Fatal Crash This Summer
So, what can teen drivers do to stay safe this summer? First and foremost, they should always obey the speed limit and never drive recklessly. Additionally, they should avoid distractions by putting away their phones and focusing on the road. Finally, they should always drive sober and be aware of their surroundings. If they follow these safety tips, they will be much less likely to get into a severe accident.
If you or someone you love was involved in a serious accident, we can help. Contact Raymond Ravis Law Firm today at (904) 358-4004 to schedule a free case consultation.
