Traffic Safety Experts Warn 31% of Fatal Teen Crashes Happen During 100 Deadliest Days

In Texas and across the nation, the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer" refers to the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when there is a significant increase in fatal car accidents, particularly among teen drivers.

During this period, teen traffic fatalities spike by over 20%, contributing to 30% of the annual 2,100 teen fatal crashes, according to The National Road Safety Foundation (NRSF).

What causes car accidents involving teens?

The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer is the most dangerous time of year for teen drivers. SAAD executive director Scott Myers told Fox News this is primarily because they are out of school and on the road more frequently.

Summer activities such as hangouts, parties, and vacations lead to increased driving among teens. However, as inexperienced drivers, teens often lack the skills needed to navigate heavier traffic and unfamiliar routes safely. This inexperience makes them more easily distracted and prone to engaging in reckless driving behaviors. Some common causes of teen driver accidents include:

Inexperience

When teen drivers hit the road for the first time they do not yet have the developed skills and judgment necessary for safe driving. They often struggle with assessing risks, responding to unexpected situations, and making quick decisions under pressure. This lack of experience makes them more susceptible to accidents.

Distracted driving

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents among teen drivers due to mobile devices, interactions with passengers, or other in-car activities. Distractions divert attention from the road and impair the driver’s ability to react to sudden changes or hazards. Texting, for example, significantly reduces a driver's reaction time, making it difficult to avoid accidents. Teens are particularly vulnerable to distractions as they often overestimate their ability to multitask while driving.

Driving under the influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly increases the likelihood of accidents among teen drivers. Impaired driving affects coordination, judgment, and reaction times, making it difficult to operate a vehicle safely. Teens may not fully understand the extent of how substances impair their abilities, leading to risky behaviors behind the wheel.

Speeding

Speeding is a common cause of accidents among teen drivers because it reduces their ability to react to hazards and increases the severity of collisions. Teens may speed due to a lack of awareness about the dangers, a desire to impress peers, or a sense of invincibility. Inexperienced drivers often misjudge stopping distances and the time needed to navigate curves or avoid obstacles safely. Higher speeds exacerbate these miscalculations, resulting in a greater likelihood of losing control of the vehicle and causing serious accidents.

Tips for parents with teen drivers

Being an independent driver can be fun, especially in the summer. However, both teens and parents must prioritize safety on the road. Here are some tips to help teens drive safely:

• Lead by example; practice safe driving habits yourself.
• Set clear rules and expectations regarding driving privileges and responsibilities.
• Monitor your teen's driving progress and provide constructive feedback.
• Encourage participation in defensive driving courses or programs.
• Emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts and following speed limits.
• Use technology like GPS trackers or apps that monitor driving behavior.