AAA Kansas Highlights Teen Driver Safety During 100 Deadliest Days
The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, known as the "100 Deadliest Days," sees a significant spike every year in car accidents involving teenage drivers. During these months, the increased travel and free time for teenagers can lead to more hazardous driving conditions, highlighting the need for heightened awareness and preventive measures to ensure road safety for everyone.
“Traffic crashes remain one of the leading causes of death for U.S teens between the ages of 16 and 19,” said AAA Kansas spokesman Shawn Steward, per WIBW-TV. “Teens often have a lot of unstructured time in the summer but don’t have the experience and skills of older drivers. Those factors can often lead to deadly consequences on the road.”
Teen car accident statistics
Teen driver accidents carry devastating consequences, impacting not only the young drivers themselves but also their passengers and other road users. WIBW-TV has compiled alarming statistics shedding light on the severity of these accidents:
- Traffic crashes rank among the leading causes of death for U.S. teens aged 16-19.
- Between 2013 and 2022, teen driver-related summertime crashes resulted in 6,697 deaths.
- In 2022 alone, 707 individuals lost their lives in teen driver-related crashes, marking a 10% increase from 2019.
- During the "100 Deadliest Days" from 2013 to 2022, Kansas witnessed 99 fatalities involving teen drivers aged 15-18, accounting for 33% of all teen-related vehicle crash fatalities within that period.
Why are teens more prone to crashes?
Teen drivers are particularly prone to crashes due to several factors:
Inexperience
Teen drivers often lack the experience needed to navigate challenging or unexpected driving situations, resulting in poor judgment, slower reaction times, and an increased likelihood of accidents.
Distracted driving
Teenagers are highly susceptible to distractions such as smartphones, passengers, and other activities, which can divert their attention from the road and heighten the risk of a motor vehicle collision.
Reckless driving
Easily influenced, teens may engage in reckless behaviors like speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol, and neglecting to wear seatbelts, all of which significantly increase the risk of severe accidents.
Additionally, factors such as peer pressure and overestimation of driving abilities contribute to teen driver accidents.
How parents can promote safe driving habits
Promoting safe driving habits as a parent is essential, especially considering the heightened risks for teen drivers during the summer months. Equipping your teen with the knowledge and habits they need to navigate the road safely is critical.
“Parents remain the best line of defense to keep everyone safe behind the wheel,” said Michael Belcuore, driver education manager for AAA Club Alliance, per WIBW-TV. “It’s never too soon for parents to talk to their kids about the dangers of distracted driving, speeding, and alcohol and marijuana impairment. But, and this is an important but, they also need to model good driving behavior themselves.”
Here are some key tips to guide your conversations and actions as you support your teen in becoming a responsible driver:
- Communicate regularly: Have open discussions about the dangers of speeding, drinking and driving, and distractions while driving.
- Lead by example: Demonstrate safe driving practices by avoiding risky behaviors when you're behind the wheel.
- Establish guidelines: Develop a driving agreement with clear family rules and expectations for your teen.
- Practice together: Spend ample time driving with your teen, aiming for at least 60 hours of practice, including 10 hours at night.
- Choose the right driving school: Select a reputable driving school with a current curriculum covering topics such as advanced vehicle technology, the effects of cannabis, updated laws, and road-sharing. Look for programs that include parent sessions to reinforce safe driving principles.
Protect your rights after a car wreck in Kansas
Accidents on the road can happen to anyone, regardless of age or driving experience. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a novice behind the wheel, there's still a risk of getting injured in a crash caused by someone else. In such situations, it's essential to understand your legal rights and options. Dealing with insurance companies can be complex, and you may encounter challenges in obtaining fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Seeking guidance from a knowledgeable car accident attorney can help navigate the legal process and ensure your rights are protected. At Warner Law Offices, our team can advocate on your behalf, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Our case results include many meaningful outcomes for crash victims, including a $3.9 million settlement for a car rollover and ejection.
To see how we can help with your potential legal case, contact us to schedule a free case evaluation. Our office is located in Wichita, and we offer legal representation to clients throughout Kansas.