Why summer is considered the most dangerous season for teen drivers

Summer months are considered more dangerous for teen drivers. Photo: Alex Jumper // UnSplash

PARK CITY, Utah — With the last day of school around the corner and summer travel ramping up across Utah, safety advocates are warning families about the “100 Deadliest Days,” the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day that sees a spike in fatal crashes, especially those involving teen drivers.

According to the National Road Safety Foundation, teen drivers are significantly more likely to be involved in fatal crashes during the summer months than at any other time of year.

The organization, alongside several youth and safety groups, is promoting a “100 Safest Days of Summer” campaign aimed at reducing preventable crashes through education and safer driving habits.

Car crashes remain the leading cause of death for American teens, and studies from AAA show teen drivers are about 20% more likely to be involved in a fatal crash during the summer period. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports teen drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a deadly crash during these months.

Over the last decade, more than 900 fatalities have occurred during the summer season, according to data from Zero Fatalities, averaging out to almost one death per day.

Safety experts say several factors contribute to the increased risk.

With school out, teenagers spend more time on the road, often driving with friends in the car. Distracted driving — including phones, passengers and eating while driving — accounts for roughly 60% of teen crashes, according to the foundation.

Speeding and impaired driving also remain major concerns. National statistics show more than one-third of male drivers between 15 and 20 years old involved in fatal crashes in 2022 were speeding. Alcohol also continues to play a role despite the legal drinking age of 21.

Safety officials are encouraging parents to talk openly with teens about driving expectations before summer activities begin. Recommendations include limiting passengers, enforcing phone-free driving, and setting curfews.

The campaign also encourages both teens and adults to practice defensive driving habits, wear seatbelts, and avoid driving while tired.

“Children do what you do, not what you say,” the foundation noted in its guidance for parents, encouraging adults to model safe driving behavior themselves.

The organization is also asking families to take a safe driving pledge through its summer safety campaign, which focuses on reducing distracted driving and encouraging responsible choices behind the wheel.