Fatal Teen Crashes Spike in Summer, AAA Warns of ‘100 Deadliest Days’
As summer begins, AAA is urging parents and young drivers to be especially cautious on the roads. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the “100 Deadliest Days,” sees a sharp increase in fatal crashes involving teen drivers.
According to AAA, this is one of the most dangerous times of the year for young people behind the wheel.
Between 2019 and 2023, more than 13,000 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers across the United States. Over 30% of those deaths occurred during the summer months.
On average, eight people die every day in crashes involving teen drivers during the 100 Deadliest Days, compared to seven per day throughout the rest of the year.
AAA stresses the importance of proper training for young drivers. In Ohio, teens must complete at least eight hours of driving instruction with a certified driving instructor to receive a license.
AAA offers a driver education program for teens ages 15½ to 18, which includes four two-hour driving lessons with an instructor and access to a AAA training vehicle.
“Teaching new teen drivers helps them learn how to drive and handle different situations safely,” said Matt Philips, director of automotive services operations for AAA East Central. “Our goal is to help these new drivers avoid common mistakes that can lead to crashes.”
Distracted driving is a major concern, and AAA recommends that parents encourage their teens to use “Do Not Disturb” features on smartphones to help reduce temptation behind the wheel.
Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety shows that teen drivers ages 16 to 17 are three times more likely than adults to be involved in a crash that results in a fatality.
Speeding and nighttime driving are also key factors in many of the deadly crashes that occur during the summer. AAA is calling on parents to stay involved in their teens’ driving habits, set clear rules, and provide ongoing guidance even after their teen is licensed.
By staying informed and proactive, families can help reduce the risk and make the roads safer for everyone during the summer months.
