The most dangerous days for teens to drive are here. Known as the 100 deadliest days of teen driving, these are the days where teens are more likely to be involved in deadly crashes. Why? It’s summer vacation.
The summer poses a particular threat to teens and others on the road due to the addition of school-aged teens who now have the full day to get behind the wheel. In the summer, they typically do not attend school, so more teens may get together to hang out or go to parties, which can result in distractions, speeding, drinking and driving and other hazardous behaviors.
Slow down!
Speeding is a factor in around 30 percent of all fatal crashes involving teen drivers. They may believe that the rules of the road don’t apply to them, that they have good control over their vehicles or just be worried about getting where they want to go as fast as they can. The problem is that speeding means you have less time to slow down, and an impact can be multiple times more dangerous than if you were traveling at a lower speed.
It’s uncool to skip wearing your seat belt
Failing to wear a seat belt is another reason for teens suffering more seriously in crashes. In 2015, data showed that around 60 percent of teens who were killed in collisions did not wear their seat belts. Those who do wear seat belts have a higher chance of surviving a crash.
Distracted driving is a third cause of teen crashes. Whether it’s talking to friends in the vehicle or texting people while behind the wheel, not paying attention to the road can quickly cause an accident. Around six out of 10 crashes involving teens involve some kind of distraction.
With this time of year being so dangerous, it’s important for everyone to stay focused on the road. If you’re hit by a young driver, you can file a claim and seek the compensation you deserve with the help of your attorney.