The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day each year is known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers. According to the National Road Safety Foundation, this summer stretch brings more freedom and more time on the road, but also, unfortunately, more danger. As a result, there’s a sharp increase in car crashes involving teens across the country during this timeframe.
Why Is Summer So Dangerous for Teen Drivers?
Car crashes remain the number one cause of death for teens in the United States, and the risk rises significantly during these 100 days. So why is this time of year especially dangerous? For many teens, summer means school is out, routines are relaxed, and there’s more time spent driving to work, to hang out with friends, or to enjoy trips and activities. But that extra time behind the wheel, combined with limited driving experience, often leads to more accidents.
According to the CDC, teen drivers (ages 16–19) are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash per mile driven than adults. Their inexperience affects hazard recognition and decision-making, which increases risk, especially when speeding or driving at night (IIHS).
Why Are The 100 Deadliest Days So Deadly:
- Teens are traveling with friends: Teen or young adult passengers increase the crash risk of unsupervised teen drivers. This risk increases with each additional teen or young adult passenger.
- Distractions: In 2019, 39% of U.S. high school students who drive admitted that they had texted or e-mailed while driving at least once during the prior 30 days.
- Driving on Summer nights: Driving at night is riskier than in the daytime for drivers of all ages – but is particularly dangerous for teen drivers.
These factors create a dangerous mix that makes summer one of the riskiest times of year for teens behind the wheel.
What Can Parents Do?
Teens who have supportive, involved parents are more likely to drive safely.
The CDC provides information on how parents can be proactive in creating safe driving habits:
- Set clear rules: No texting while driving, always buckle up, and limit nighttime driving.
- Be a role model: Your teen watches how you drive, so set the example.
- Keep practicing: Even after your teen get s their license, ride along regularly and talk through tough situations.
Summer should be a time for fun, freedom, and new memories, not for tragedy. By staying informed, setting smart rules, and working together, teens and parents can help make the “100 Deadliest Days” a whole lot safer.
