CLEVELAND — This week marks the start of the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers, which has been marked as the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal crashes involving teen drivers have historically increased, according to AAA.
Between 2008 and 2018, more than 8,300 people died in crashes involving teen drivers, and this year, the combination of schools closed, activities curtailed and summer jobs canceled could increase the number of fatal crashes.
“The crash data from the last decade are alarming, and with the combination of COVID-related factors at play this year, it’s essential for parents to talk with their teens now,” says Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central in a news release. “Setting ground rules and modeling safe driving behaviors will go a long way towards saving lives.”
Data from AAA found that for every mile driven, new teen drivers ages 16 to 17 years old are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash compared to adults.
To keep roads safe this summer, AAA encourages parents to talk to teens about the dangers behind the wheel, such as speeding, impairment and distracted driving. AAA said parents should also conduct at least 50 hours of supervised practice driving with their teen.
