Summer is the most dangerous time of year for teen driving

(WJET/WFXP)– As school ends for summer vacation across the United States, AAA reminds parents and all other drivers to teach and model good driving behavior as summer marks the “100 Deadliest Days” for Teen Drivers.

According to AAA East Central, the summer period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the deadliest time for teen drivers, with more than 7,000 deaths in traffic accidents between 2011 and 2020.

AAA also said that new drivers aged 16 and 17 are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash, with speed and night driving playing a significant role in crashes and deaths.

“Without the responsibilities of school during the summer months, teens will spend more time on the road, often driving with friends at odd hours of the day and night. Young drivers don’t have as much experience behind the wheel, so they often engage in dangerous behaviors like speeding and distracted driving,” says Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central. “AAA urges parents to practice safe driving practices and reinforce safe driving habits so their teen drivers are as safe as possible this summer.”

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found the following:

• 36 percent of all motor vehicle deaths involving teen drivers occurred between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m.
• The data shows a 22% increase in the average number of nighttime crashes per day involving teen drivers during the 100 deadliest days compared to the rest of the year.
• 30 percent of all motor vehicle deaths involving a teen driver were speed-related

To help reduce risks, AAA advises parents to take the time to educate teen drivers about risky behaviors such as speeding, distracted driving with a cell phone or other distractions, to wear seat belts and establish rules for safe driving.

According to the NHTSA, more than 50% of teen drivers who died in 2020 were not wearing seat belts.