Is summer more dangerous for teenage drivers? Data suggests this could be the case | WNDB

Chris Gollon

With Memorial Day passing Monday, begins a time of year that could be the most dangerous time to be a teen driver in Florida. According to an assessment by AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins, we are currently experiencing a period known as the “100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers,” where data shows an increase in fatal car crashes involving adolescents.

Data collected from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that nearly half of fatal crashes involving teen drivers occur during the 100-day period in question, which extends through the holiday weekend of Labor in September. In 2023 in Florida, teenagers were involved in nearly 20,000 crashes during this period, including 68 fatalities and 83 people killed overall.

So why is the risk suddenly higher in summer? It may be as simple as teens having more time to drive. “The risk increases during the summer for teen drivers and everyone else they share the road with,” Jenkins spoke about the trend. “Now that school is out, these young, inexperienced drivers will spend more time on the road with their friends.”

Still, this worrying trend isn't necessarily a reason for parents and guardians to stop driving their teens altogether. According to Jenkins' report, several steps can be taken to reduce the risk of fatal traffic accidents during the summer. Namely, teens should refrain from distracted driving habits like cell phone use, avoid peer pressure to drive dangerously for fun, obey the speed limit, and always wear their seat belt. In particular, teenage drivers who were speeding or not wearing seat belts accounted for a large portion of fatal crashes in 2023.

Beyond that, parents and guardians can also play an active role in keeping their teens driving safely. “The most important thing parents can do to help their teens become safe drivers is to get involved in their learning to drive process,” added Rachel Wilson, director of AAA driver training programs. “Spend time coaching your teen while they are behind the wheel and have serious discussions about safety. »