As the school term ends for the summer, Pennsylvania families may be focused on planning vacations and other activities as they take advantage of the break. With free time on their hands, teenagers often focus on social activities, as well as summer employment. However, it is also important to revisit basic driving safety concepts as the season begins to reduce the risk of serious or even deadly car accidents among the 15-20 age group of teen drivers. AAA considers the period between Memorial Day and the return to school to be the deadliest 100 days of the year on the roads.
Car crashes affect many lives during the summer months. In fact, statistics show that the average deaths per day during this period exceed 10, and more than 1,000 people have died in teen-related crashes around the country during this period for each of the past five summers. Teen drivers are particularly affected by distractions ranging from conversing with others in their vehicles to using their cell phones while driving.
Research related to the cellphone activity of teens shows that young people are very involved with their devices. More than half of teens participate in text messaging on a daily basis, and their average number of texts each day is at least 80, according to the Pew Research Center.
Nearly one-fourth of teens indicate that they are constantly active online. Unfortunately, this activity carries into the realm of driving, and the risk of an accident increases by 23 times when a driver is texting. Parents may find that it is helpful to review and reinforce family rules about texting and driving as their teenagers spend more time on the road during summer vacation.
A teen could be responsible for a deadly accident while texting, and parents can be liable for damages caused by their teen in such an incident. An individual who has been seriously injured might want to have legal assistance in seeking compensation from the responsible parents in such a case.
Introduction
The summer months are a time of excitement and freedom for many teenagers, but they also pose a significant risk for teen drivers. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” due to the increase in teen driving accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), teen auto collision deaths increase by 26% during this period. In this article, we will explore the factors that contribute to the increased risk of fatal crashes among teen drivers during the summer months and provide safe driving tips to help reduce this risk.
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer refer to the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day, during which the number of fatal car crashes involving teen drivers increases significantly. According to the NHTSA, an average of 260 teens are killed in car crashes each month during the summer. This is a staggering statistic that highlights the need for increased awareness and education about teen driving safety during the summer months.
Distracted Driving Risks
Distracted driving is a significant risk factor for teen drivers during the summer months. According to the NHTSA, texting while driving is a major contributor to distracted driving and teen crashes. Looking at a phone for 5 seconds while driving at 50 miles per hour can be equivalent to driving the length of a football field blind. Other distractions include talking to other passengers, eating and drinking, changing music, and adjusting navigation.
Safe Driving Tips for Teens
To reduce the risk of accidents during the summer months, teen drivers should follow these safe driving tips:
- Avoid distractions: Put away your phone and avoid eating, drinking, and talking to other passengers while driving.
- Follow traffic laws: Obey speed limits, stop at stop signs and red lights, and use turn signals.
- Stay focused: Keep your eyes on the road and avoid looking at other things while driving.
- Maintain your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is in good working condition by checking fluid levels, oil, tire pressure, and cooling system.
- Stay safe in the heat: Drink lots of cold water, stay in the shade, and keep windows cracked to avoid heat exhaustion.
- Take a driver’s ed course: Enroll in a driver’s ed course to learn safe driving habits and become road-ready.
By following these safe driving tips and being aware of the factors that increase the risk of fatal crashes, teen drivers can reduce their risk of accidents during the summer months.
Why Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C. Is Your Advocate in Teen Driving Accidents
The summer months can be a challenging time for families navigating the risks of teen driving. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C., we are dedicated to helping those affected by teen driving accidents secure the support and compensation they need. With over 65 years of experience, we understand the unique challenges of these cases and offer compassionate, effective representation.
Recognized by U.S. News & World Report and Pennsylvania Super Lawyers, our team is here to advocate for victims and ensure justice is served. If you or a loved one has been injured in a teen-related accident, contact us at (215) 822-7575 or through our contact form for a consultation.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
January 29, 2025
