A Sporting Chance For teen drivers, the time span between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the “100 deadliest days.” Nationwide, an average of 260 teens are killed per month in auto crashes during this stretch — over 25 percent higher than other months of the year. They’re also more likely to be involved in crashes that result in the deaths of:
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Passengers
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Pedestrians
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Occupants or riders of other vehicles
Several factors contribute to this tragic pattern:
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School break = more teen drivers. With high school and college classes on hold, more teens are on the road — many of them inexperienced behind the wheel and prone to making critical misjudgments.
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Lack of maturity. Speeding is involved in 35% of teen crashes, and distracted driving is a major issue. While all age groups can be guilty, teen drivers are affected at disproportionately higher rates.
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Underage drinking and driving. Although more drunk-driving fatalities are attributed to the 21–24 and 25–34 age groups, underage drinking remains a serious risk during summer months filled with parties and gatherings.
How Parents Can Help:
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Set a good example: follow traffic laws, buckle up, put away your phone, and practice patience.
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Talk to your teen about the risks of driving — even if they seem uninterested, they’re likely listening.
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Never condone underage drinking, even at home.
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Encourage your teen to avoid riding with anyone who has been drinking or using drugs.
If you or a family member is injured by a negligent driver, contact our office to protect your rights.
