While summer offers teens a break from school, it also marks an increased risk for car accidents, as AAA has coined the period from Memorial Day to Labor Day the “100 Deadliest Days” due to an increase in serious and fatal accidents involving teen drivers. To address this concerning trend, AAA Northeast emphasizes the importance of teens understanding the reasons behind safe driving practices during the summer, while parents play a crucial role in promoting safety.
Meanwhile, at the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our commitment to safer roads spans two decades through our Arrive Alive Creative Contest. This initiative has empowered Maine high school seniors to raise awareness about distracted and impaired driving through innovative projects that make a lasting impact. Together, we strive to foster a culture of responsible driving and reduce the risks associated with negligent driving among teens.
What causes the spike in teen car accidents during the 100 Deadliest Days?
While more teens are out driving for longer periods during the summer due to increased free time, risky driving behaviors greatly contribute to the higher likelihood of crashes.
Distracted driving, such as phone use and driving with multiple teen passengers, is a major factor. Research shows that when a teen driver has only teen passengers in their vehicle, the fatality rate for all people involved increases by a staggering 51%. However, when older passengers (35 or older) ride with a teen driver, there’s an 8% drop in the fatality rate.
Additionally, speeding and running red lights are among the top unsafe driving practices exhibited by teens, according to the AAA Foundation Traffic Safety Culture Index. Peer pressure also plays a role in teen driving risks.
How many people are affected by the 100 Deadliest Days?
From 2013 to 2022, 7,435 people lost their lives nationwide in teen driver-related crashes during the summer months. In 2022 alone, 790 people were killed in such crashes, marking a 10% increase compared to pre-pandemic 2019.
The year prior, in 2021, 900 people died in these types of accidents, a 6% increase from the previous year and a 25% rise over pre-pandemic levels.
What role can parents play in promoting safe teen driving?
Parents can play an important role in promoting safe driving habits among their teens. For starters, when selecting a driving school, look for one that is a member of a professional association, uses a curriculum meeting national standards, and offers parent sessions to provide guidance on coaching and managing teen driving.
Once your teen has obtained their driver’s license, you can get involved by doing the following:
- Model safe driving behaviors.
- Discuss the dangers of speeding, impairment, and distracted driving.
- Set clear household rules regarding your teen’s driving.
- Restrict the number of passengers your teen can have in a car at once.
- Put limits on nighttime driving.
What can teen drivers do to prevent car accidents?
Teen drivers can take several steps to increase their safety on Maine roads. Here are some tips to consider during the 100 Deadliest Days and other times of the year:
- Always wear a seatbelt.
- Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Put away phones and avoid distractions while driving.
- Adhere to posted speed limits.
- Limit the number of passengers, especially other teens.
- Practice defensive driving techniques.
- Avoid driving late at night or in inclement weather when possible.
Get experienced legal support from a Maine car accident attorney
Teen drivers and parents should continue to do their best to promote safety during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. However, no matter how safe you drive, you can’t always predict the actions of other drivers, regardless of their age.
At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, our experienced car accident lawyers understand the unique challenges crash victims face and are dedicated to fighting for the compensation you and your family deserve. Since 1974, our firm has handled some of the toughest car accident cases in Maine, and we have a proven track record of successful outcomes. To see how we can help you, contact us today for a free case evaluation. We have 7 offices located throughout Maine and offer legal representation to clients statewide.
