Summer is a time of freedom and adventure for teenagers. Longer days and a break from school offer ample opportunities to hit the road.
However, these months can also be dangerous for young drivers. In fact, the days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the deadliest for teen drivers. As a parent, understanding the risk that teen drivers face and taking proactive steps can help ensure your teen’s safety
Summer vacations often lead to increased traffic
With more people traveling for vacations and summer events, roads can become congested, leading to a higher likelihood of accidents. Teens, who may be less experienced in navigating heavy traffic, can be particularly vulnerable.
Parents can help by encouraging their teens to plan routes in advance and avoid peak travel times like rush hour on Fridays. Parents may also want to discuss the importance of maintaining a safe following distance and being patient in traffic.
Distraction is a common risk
The allure of texting, social media or chatting with friends can be strong. As a result, distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents among teens.
Parents should set clear rules about phone use in the car, such as keeping phones out of reach while driving. They should also model good behavior by avoiding distractions when behind the wheel.
Drunk drivers are more common
Summer is the deadliest season for alcohol-related collisions, and summer holidays like Labor Day, Independence Day and Memorial Day are among the most dangerous for drunk driving crash risk. This means that teens are at greater risk of encountering a drunk driver while on the road.
Summer parties and gatherings can also expose teens to situations involving alcohol, increasing the risk of impaired driving. Parents should have open conversations about the dangers of driving under the influence and establish a plan for safe transportation alternatives.
Teens are more likely to drive at night than they are during the school year
Without the need to get up for school in the morning, teens may be out later. They may work later hours or spend more time with friends. This can tempt teens to drive late into the night, when visibility is lower and fatigue may set in. Parents may want to set curfews and discuss the risk of fatigued driving.
Inexperience is a common challenge for teen drivers
Social events may take teen drivers to unfamiliar locations. Summer storms can lead to wet roads. Construction projects can create detours and unfamiliar routes. All of this may mean that inexperienced teen drivers face new and dangerous situations without the knowledge of how to handle them.
Thankfully, parents can use their own experience as a resource for teens. They can encourage practice on different types of roads and conditions during less busy times and provide advice on what to do if the unexpected occurs.
You can protect your teen this summer
As parents, it is essential to provide guidance and support to help your teen develop safe driving habits. Regular communication, setting clear expectations and leading by example can make all the difference in ensuring their safety on the road this summer. By taking these steps, you can help your teen enjoy their summer adventures while limiting the risk of a car accident.