The summer season happens to contain the 100 deadliest days of the year for drivers. This includes teens and adults alike in Connecticut and the rest of the U.S. Due to their inexperience, teen drivers are especially at risk. This is the time to talk to them about acting responsibly on the road so that tragedy won’t result.
Teen drivers are at risk during summer
The warm summer months are considered the 100 deadliest days of the year for teen drivers. Motor vehicle accidents are at their most common during this time. Teens are out of school and often drive to their jobs and social activities. The more they drive, the higher the potential for accidents will be.
Teen drivers have a higher propensity to engage in incidents of risky or unsafe behavior while behind the wheel. This includes speeding, tailgating, changing lanes without signaling, and not wearing their seat belts. It also includes such activities as driving while impaired by alcohol or distracted by their phones.
Safety education can prevent teen deaths
There are many reasons why many drivers feel that the summer season is the most dangerous time to be on the road. Crashes involving vehicles are the leading cause of death for teens.
The average number of deaths during the summer months is 260, an increase of 26% compared to other months. Studies have shown that 60% of these deaths are due to distracted driving. Teens have the highest crash rate of any age group.
Safety experts feel that the best way to prevent these needless deaths is through education. Measures are being taken to provide teen drivers with more info and training to instill in them safer driving practices. While promising, the results of these measures remain to be seen.
