The 100 Deadliest Days for Teen Drivers Have Begun

Memorial Day marks the start of the 100 most dangerous for teen drivers

The 100 deadliest days for teen drivers have begun.

Beginning on Memorial Day, the summer months mark the “100 deadliest days” for teen drivers in the U.S. According to AAA: The average number of deaths from crashes involving teen drivers ages 16-19 increased by 16 percent per day compared to other days of the year.

Several factors combine to create these dangerous conditions. When school is out, teenagers have more free time and drive more often. It is also a celebratory time, as prom and high school graduation tend to see an increase in fatal car crashes involving teenagers. These celebrations will often include underage drinking, drug use, and late-night driving – all factors tied to fatal accidents. Texting and use of social media behind the wheel is another disturbing and unnecessary trend contributing to fatal crashes at an unprecedented rate.

But one of the most dangerous summertime driving habits for teens is one that seems far more innocent: carpooling. The presence of one non-family passenger increases a teen driver’s risk of a crash by 44%. The risk doubles with the addition of each additional passenger.

Pennsylvania law allows junior license holders no more than one teen passenger under the age of 18 for the first 6 months of driving, and no more than three teen passengers under 18 after that first six-month period, unless supervised by a parent or guardian. Still, it is wise for parents to limit the number of non-family passengers that their teen driver travels with even beyond that recommended six-month period, and especially during high-risk times like prom, graduation, summer break, and late at night.

It is probably tempting (for parents as well as teenagers) for teens to pile into the car of their newly licensed friend, no longer relying on mom and dad for rides. But, especially during the first year of driving, the priority must be on safety, not convenience.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car accident, we are here to help. Call Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys for a free consultation with one of our car accident lawyers. We will review the details of your situation at no charge, explain your legal rights, and help you decide what to do next.