Summer begins deadliest time for teen drivers, says AAA

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The end of the Memorial Day holiday might mean the start of summer, but it also marks the start of what AAA calls the 100 Deadliest Days; the most dangerous time for teenagers and inexperienced drivers.

AAA is concerned about teen driving behavior during the summer.

AAA Mountain West spokesperson Julian Paredes said this time is very dangerous for teens because they are out of school during the summer and are statistically more likely to engage in risky behaviors, such as sending Texting while driving, because they are inexperienced.

“Being a new driver is exciting,” Paredes said. “It's a lot of fun. You have a lot of freedom, but it also comes with a lot of danger.

He said accidents were falling before the pandemic, but road deaths and risky driving behavior have increased since 2020.

The increase is driven by data from the Alaska Department of Transportation that shows the number of drivers under the age of 20 involved in fatal crashes increased by 55 percent.

To keep teens safe, AAA urges parents to talk to their children about safe driving and practice safe driving habits, such as obeying speed limits and turning off phones while on the road.

It's also recommended that parents give their teens some driving experience before sending them off this summer.

Jeannie, an Anchorage mother, said that when her son took a driving course, he became a more responsible driver.

“It was way more than I would have been comfortable doing with him,” Jeannie said. “I mean, I drive, but I wasn't comfortable with him half-listening to me and so that's my big recommendation. A driving course, if it's affordable. Or put him with someone you know who isn't you because teenagers don't listen.

AAA wants drivers to enjoy summer safely.

“We’re not trying to discourage people from taking road trips or having fun,” Paredes said. “It really is a reminder, the numbers back it up, it’s a more dangerous time to hit the road, so while you’re taking that road trip, just be smart and have fun safely.”

More information on teen driver safety is available on the AAA website.

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