Summer is nearly here, which means that more teens will be hitting the roads in Michigan. This time is known as the 100 deadliest days of summer due to the increased risk of teen car accidents.
What are the 100 deadliest days of summer?
The 100 deadliest days of summer span Memorial Day through Labor Day. The reason this time has been given that name is because teens are off from school and free to drive more. Sadly, it’s also a time when teen drivers are more likely to get into serious car accidents resulting in injuries and death.
Why are teens more likely to crash during the summer?
With school being out during the summer, more teens hit the road to enjoy fun days out with friends. More cars are on the roads as people go on vacation or take day trips.
There’s also a higher likelihood of teens attending parties and getting drunk during this time. The combination of inexperience and intoxication makes for a potentially deadly situation behind the wheel. Teens also have a sense of invincibility that causes them to behave more recklessly.
Teens have a higher rate of car accidents than any other age group. Car accidents are the top cause of death for teen drivers and passengers. Close to 300 teens are killed in crashes each summer, which is a remarkably higher number than during other times of the year.
How can teen drivers stay safe?
Teens can stay safer while driving this summer. Parents should instill the following in their kids:
• Wear a seat belt at all times.
• Never use alcohol or drugs while driving.
• Avoid distractions such as cell phone use while driving.
• Obey all rules of the road and follow traffic signs and signals.
• Limit the number of passengers in the vehicle.
• Limit nighttime driving.
Summer doesn’t have to be deadly for teens when they drive. Make sure your child knows how to be as safe as possible.
