AAA: Summer most dangerous for teen drivers

Kansas has already begun loosening COVID-19 restrictions in communities across the state. This includes the reopening of restaurants, churches, movie theaters, summer camps and community centers.

This all comes during the most dangerous time for teen drivers. It's called the "100 Deadliest Days" and runs from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. AAA dubs the loosening of restrictions during this time a potential "perfect storm" for teen drivers.

That's because teen drivers, who lack years of driving experience, will be sharing the road with those who likely haven't driven for months. As Kansas transitions somewhat back to normal, we could see a major increase in traffic congestion and rusty driving skills.

Teen drivers three times more likely to be involved in a crash

According to Dr. David Yang, executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, teen drivers ages 16-17 are three times more likely to be involved in crashes than adult drivers. A survey conducted in the new AAA Foundation Traffic Safety Culture Index explains why.

The survey found that 72 percent of teen drivers have engaged in these risky behaviors within the last 30 days:

• Speeding on residential streets (47%)
• Speeding on highways (40%)
• Sending or reading texts while driving — (35%)
• Running red lights (32)%
• Engaging in aggressive driving (31%)
• Drowsy driving (25%)
• Failing to wear a seatbelt (17%)

Safety tips for parents of teen drivers

AAA explains why it's important for parents to be involved in monitoring their teens' driving habits and encouraging safe driving methods.

"It’s never too soon to educate teens on the dangers of distracted driving, speeding, and the impairing effects of alcohol and marijuana. But actions speak louder than words. Remember to model good behavior because your teen won’t take your advice seriously if you don’t follow it yourself," said Jennifer Ryan, AAA’s director of state relations.

Parents can be active in teaching their teen safe driving habits. Here's how:

• Discuss the dangers of risky driving, such as speeding, distraction and impairment.
• Lead by example and by practicing safe driving habits.
• Establish rules for teen drivers by developing a parent-teen driving agreement.
• Practice safe driving with teen drivers for at least 50 hours.

For more information on how to help your teen develop safe driving habits, download AAA's Coaching Your New Driver – An In-Car Guide for Parents.

What to do if you're injured in a car accident

If you were injured in a crash with a negligent driver, you have the right to pursue legal damages against the at-fault driver's insurance company. The Wichita car accident attorneys at Warner Law Offices are dedicated to helping injured motorists recover every penny owed to them.

To get started on your car accident claim, contact our law firm online or by calling 1-866-584-1032. We offer free and confidential case evaluations to new clients.