The summer months represent a time of freedom for teenagers. With school out of session and more time spent with friends, teen drivers are on the road more frequently. This increase in unsupervised driving raises concerns about whether teen drivers pose a greater danger during this time of year. Data from national safety organizations and law enforcement agencies suggests that the answer may be yes.
What Makes Summer Driving Riskier for Teens?
Several factors contribute to heightened risk during the summer for teen drivers. Increased free time often means more social activities and longer hours spent behind the wheel. Teens who work at summer jobs and drive to work also spend more time behind the wheel.
With both situations comes a greater likelihood of driving at night, which can present visibility challenges and delayed reaction times, especially for young, inexperienced drivers.
How Do Crash Rates Compare in the Summer Months?
Statistical trends consistently show an uptick in motor vehicle accidents involving teen drivers during the summer. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is sometimes referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers due to the marked increase in fatal crashes. During this time, teens are more likely to be involved in collisions than at any other time of year.
Contributing to this pattern is the inexperience that many teens bring to the road. They may not know how to respond effectively in high-pressure or emergency situations, particularly if road conditions are poor or traffic patterns are unfamiliar. Combined with increased road activity in the summer from vacationers and local events, this lack of experience can become a significant hazard.
What Are Common Causes of Teen Driver Accidents in the Summer?
These are the three most common causes of teen driving crashes:
- Distracted Driving: This includes using the phone while driving, particularly texting and social media. Other instances include eating, interacting with passengers, and daydreaming.
- Impaired Driving: Summer gatherings increase opportunities for underage drinking. Even a small amount of alcohol can impair judgment and coordination. When combined with inexperience, this can lead to catastrophic results.
- Fatigue: Teens often keep irregular hours during the summer, staying up late and driving at times when they may be less alert. Drowsy driving can mimic the effects of alcohol or drug impairment.
Are There Legal Consequences for Teen Drivers After an Accident?
Teen drivers involved in accidents can face a wide range of legal and financial consequences. Depending on the severity of the incident, they may be subject to citations, license suspensions, or even criminal charges. Liability for injuries or property damage may fall on the teen or their parents, particularly if the vehicle was registered in the parents’ name.
Parents may also be held accountable under certain legal theories, such as negligent entrustment, which applies when a vehicle owner allows an inexperienced or reckless driver to operate their vehicle. Insurance policies may provide some coverage, but limits can be exceeded quickly in serious crashes.
What Can We Do to Help Reduce Risk?
While teens ultimately make their own choices behind the wheel, parents and guardians can influence those choices through clear communication and consistent rules. Discussing safe driving habits, setting curfews, and limiting the number of passengers can help reduce distractions and dangerous behaviors. Monitoring a teen’s driving record and using available technology to track driving behavior can also serve as a deterrent to risky conduct.
It may also be beneficial to restrict driving during high-risk times, such as late at night or on weekends when accident rates tend to spike. Participating in graduated driver licensing programs, which introduce driving privileges in phases, can provide teens with a more structured experience.
Learn How the Knowledgeable West Chester Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Can Help Your Case
If you have concerns about a teen driving crash, our West Chester car accident lawyers provide legal support backed by motor vehicle claim skills and experience. To learn more, call our Media or West Chester, Pennsylvania office at 610-565-3701 or complete our online form. Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. proudly serves clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.