Summer is finally here, a time when teenagers across the country look forward to no school work, relaxing with friends, and using their newly-acquired driver’s licenses. While this sense of freedom can be exciting for new drivers, it’s important not to let the relaxing attitude of summer translate into relaxing behind the wheel. As always, safety is the top priority for everyone on the road. This is especially true when it comes to the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer.”
Statistics On The 100 Deadliest Days
Year after year, rates of fatal teen accidents increase during the time between Memorial Day in May and Labor Day in September. Statistics from We Save Lives, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting safe driving practices and bringing awareness to dangerous driving choices, show that:
- An average of 260 teens are killed in car crashes each month during the summer, a 26% increase compared to other months of the year
- Teens have the highest crash rate of any age group
- Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teens
Couples with a lack of honed driving and decision-making skills, the most common factors for fatal teen accidents include:
- Speeding
- Drunk driving
- Distracted Driving
Safety Tips for Parents & Teen Drivers
We believe that education is key to road safety and accident prevention. While teens may make mistakes while first learning how to drive, it’s important to continue educating them on safe driving practices and make sure they understand the risks of dangerous driving behaviors.
AAA suggests making a parent-teen driving agreement that sets family rules for the teen driver beyond road laws. This can include agreements that your teen will:
- Not drive past a certain time or when it’s dark outside
- Put their phone on silent and out of sight when driving
- Reduce or eliminate passengers in their vehicle
- Always wear a seatbelt
We hope that these tips help you and your family stay safe during the summer season.
However, if your teen or another family member is injured in a car accident, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman for legal assistance. Our attorneys are here to listen to your story and fight for your financial recovery.
Contact Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman at (662) 222-0597 to schedule your free consultation.