Is your teen driving during the 100 Deadliest Days of the year?
The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often filled with excitement, freedom and new experiences for teenagers. But this stretch—known as the “100 Deadliest Days”—is also the most dangerous time of year for teen drivers. With more free time, less adult supervision and increased driving activity, teens are at significantly higher risk of being involved in serious or fatal car crashes during the summer months than they are at other times of year.
As a parent, one of the most important questions to ask yourself is: Is my teen coping well during this high-risk season? Coping doesn’t just mean following basic driving rules. It means managing the emotional, social and behavioral challenges that come with new levels of independence. It also means resisting peer pressure, avoiding distractions and taking driving seriously—even when friends are encouraging risky behavior.
Many teens struggle with overconfidence behind the wheel. After passing their driving test, they may feel invincible. Add to that distractions from passengers, smartphones, loud music and late-night driving, and the risk multiplies. According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the number of fatal crashes involving teen drivers spikes dramatically during the summer. These tragedies are often preventable.
Being as proactive as possible
It’s important to maintain open communication with your teen during these months. Talk about their driving habits regularly, not just once. Discuss how distractions, speeding and impaired driving—whether due to alcohol, cannabis or even sleep deprivation—can lead to devastating consequences. Remind them that accidents don’t just happen to “other people.” They happen in familiar neighborhoods, with friends in the car and sometimes in just a moment of inattention.
Monitoring your teen’s behavior can also provide you both with greater peace of mind. This might include using a driving app, setting curfews, limiting the number of passengers allowed in the car or requiring regular check-ins. These boundaries aren’t about control—they’re about safety and accountability.
If your teen seems anxious, overly distracted or reckless, take it seriously. They may be overwhelmed by the pressures of social life, summer jobs or new experiences. Helping them navigate these challenges can improve not only their mental well-being but also their ability to drive responsibly.
The 100 Deadliest Days are not just a statistic—they’re a call for awareness and action. Helping your teen cope well during this time could save their life and protect the futures of everyone on the road.