Summer is a time for relaxation and fun. However, should your destination require travel, you should not be so quick to act carefree when behind the wheel. In fact, you should be much more attentive when driving for the next few months considering that we are facing the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.
During this time, drivers face a higher risk of fatal crashes. Teenagers are especially vulnerable during this period. However, there are certain steps parents and teens can take to lessen the risk of becoming involved in a serious car accident this summer.
Since our teens are still learning to perfect their driving skills, it is important that we encourage safe driving habits to reduce the number of roadway accidents and fatalities. If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident this summer, contact the McAllen attorneys of J. Gonzalez Injury Attorneys to learn about your legal options.
What Are The 100 Deadliest Days Of Summer?
The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer is the timeframe between Memorial Day to Labor Day during which car accidents rates increase, especially those involving teenaged drivers. According to AAA, over the last five years, an average of 1,022 people have died during this time period in a crash involving a teen driver.
It is estimated that an average of 260 teenagers are killed on U.S. roads during each month of the summer. This is a 26 percent rate increase in comparison to other months of the year. Although many factors can contribute to these accidents, one, in particular, has been devastating: distracted driving.
Well over half of all teenage car accidents are the result of distracted driving. Given that teens are new to driving and lack the experience to always make the best decision when behind the wheel, anything that distracts them from their responsibilities as a driver can lead to a serious – or deadly – car accident.
The presence of too many passengers accounts for nearly 15 percent of teenage car wrecks, as opposed to 12 percent caused by phone-related distractions. Additionally, reports from 2015 estimate that out of every 100,000 U.S. persons that are below adult age, 1.2 die in car crashes with intoxicated drivers.
These statistics highlight the importance of emphasizing safe driving habits.
Protecting Your Teen Drivers This Summer
Teenagers should be reminded of the consequences that can arise from engaging in dangerous driving. This encompasses all that is considered distracted driving, driving under the influence, getting in the car when they know it is not safe, and other improper behaviors.
Such actions can result in a ruined record, cause parents’ insurance premiums to increase, and in the worst cases, can lead to catastrophic injuries or even death.
The AAA encourages parents to take the following measures:
- Do not permit teenage consumption of alcohol.
- Set a good example of driving sober.
- Remind your teen to refrain from using their cellphone while driving.
- Encourage them to call you when they are in a dangerous situation.
- Remind them to always use their seatbelt.
- Talk with your teen about abstaining from dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding.
