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The 100 deadliest days of summer

On Behalf of | May 9, 2023 | Personal Injury

The 100 deadliest days of summer begin on Memorial Day and ends on Labor Day. These days are usually the deadliest on Mississippi and the nation’s highways because the number of teen drivers increases during this time.

Distracted driving

Teens often drive distracted, and these accidents are more likely to happen at night. They usually have other teens in the car and give in to peer pressure that encourages them to get distracted while driving. Teens are also more likely to talk or text on a cell phone, change the radio, eat or apply makeup, and anything that takes their minds off driving increases the chances of having an accident.

Impaired driving

Impaired driving usually occurs when a teen drinks or uses drugs, including marijuana. It can also happen when teens get drowsy behind the wheel. Impaired driving impacts the teen’s judgment, reaction time and situational awareness. Teens often die or get a personal injury in accidents when riding with an impaired driver, even if they are not impaired.

Speed

Speed is a factor in about 28% of all teen driving accidents. While most of these accidents happen because a teen exceeds the posted speed limit, some happen because the teen is going faster than road conditions allow.

Parents must be role models of safe-driving habits. Signing a safe driving contract can help. Let your teen know they can call you anytime for a ride, and you will not discuss their drinking or drug use until the next day. Numerous apps allow parents to monitor their teen’s driving habits when not in the vehicle. Set limits with your teen about when and where they can drive. While your teen may call you strict, they will appreciate you setting limits.