The “100 deadliest days of summer” refers to the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the number of traffic fatalities affecting teenagers tends to increase.
To stay safe during this time, it is crucial for parents and teens alike to be prepared and take necessary precautions.
Get your teen ready
In anticipation of the 100 deadliest days of summer, parents may benefit from taking these tips seriously:
- Prohibit distracted driving: Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents. Teach your teen to keep their focus on the road by refraining from using electronic devices while driving. If necessary, they can use hands-free devices or pull over to a safe location to address any distractions.
- Address DUI risk: Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction times, making it extremely dangerous to drink and drive. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver, use ridesharing services or arrange for alternative transportation if you think your teen may consume alcohol at a party or event. Wishing that they wouldn’t engage in this behavior won’t make the risk go away, unfortunately.
- Regular vehicle maintenance: It’s important to ensure that your teen’s vehicle is in good working condition by following a regular maintenance schedule. Check the tires, brakes, lights and fluid levels to make sure they are functioning properly. Properly maintained vehicles are less likely to experience mechanical failures that can lead to accidents.
- Buckle up: Insist that your teen always wears their seatbelt and requires any passengers to wear theirs. This simple step significantly reduces the risk of injuries or fatalities in the event of an accident.
The summer months can be a wonderful time for teens. However, if teens and parents aren’t careful and conscious of increased risks, a preventable tragedy could occur. It is far better to be safe than sorry.
If your teen is involved in a crash caused by a reckless or negligent driver, having experienced legal guidance can help ensure that they receive the compensation needed to cover medial bills and other expenses and damages.
