Summer is a prime time for teen auto accidents

One major rite of passage in your teenager’s life is the day they pass their driving test. Your newly-licensed teen may be eager to have just about any opportunity to get behind the wheel of a car in New York. However, teenagers simply do not have the maturity and experienced to always make wise decisions while driving, which could lead to serious auto accidents.

The “100 Deadliest Days”

Teen auto accidents are so common in the summertime that the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day are referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days” for fatal teen motor vehicle accidents. Across the U.S. from 2010 to 2019, 7,038 individuals lost their lives in car crashes caused by teens during the “100 Deadliest Days.” AAA reports that this amounts to 196 fatalities on average per summer compared to the 320 fatalities on average over the course of the non-summer months.

Talk to your teen about safe driving practices

It is important for parents to discuss safe driving practices with their teen. Many teens are seemingly glued to their cellphones. However, cellphone use while driving is against the law and should always be avoided. Eating while driving, chatting to passengers and daydreaming can also lead to distracted driving accidents. Teens may consume alcohol even if they are not legally old enough to do so, so it is important to discuss the dangers of drunk driving with your teen. Teens may also not see the point of following the posted speed limit and may be prone to speeding or running stop signs or red lights, which could lead to motor vehicle accidents.

Learn more about motor vehicle accidents in New York

If you are involved in an accident involving a teen driver this summer, you will want to learn more about your rights and options. This post is for educational purposes only. Those who want to learn more about car crashes in New York are encouraged to explore our firm’s website for further information.