As summer approaches, it’s important for parents to start preparing their teen drivers for what is known as the “100 Deadliest Days” — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal car crashes involving teens spike significantly. With school out and more time spent behind the wheel, the risk of serious accidents rises sharply.
Even though it is only starting to feel like Spring, the 100 Deadliest Days of 2025 are just around the corner. That means now the right time to talk with your teen about safety.
What can parents do?
Several factors contribute to an escalated risk of danger during these months. Teens often drive more frequently in the summer, sometimes late at night or on unfamiliar roads. They are also more likely to drive with friends in the car, increasing distractions. Inexperience, combined with distractions and sometimes poor judgment, can create a dangerous mix. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, teen crash rates during the summer are much higher compared to the rest of the year.
One of the best ways to prepare teens involves open communication. Talk honestly about the risks they face and the responsibility they carry when they get behind the wheel. Set clear expectations about safe driving behaviors, such as always wearing a seatbelt, avoiding distractions like texting, obeying speed limits and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
It’s also a good idea to set limits on driving hours and the number of passengers allowed in the car. Graduated driver licensing (GDL) laws in many states already restrict nighttime driving and passenger numbers for teens, but parents can enforce even stricter rules during the summer months if needed.
Practice is also important. Consider scheduling extra driving practice sessions, focusing on skills like highway driving, merging and handling heavy traffic. Real-world experience under a parent’s supervision can build a teen’s confidence and ability to react to unexpected situations.
The 100 Deadliest Days are a real and serious concern, but with preparation, education and ongoing conversations, parents can help their teens stay safe this summer. A few proactive steps now could make all the difference in protecting your teen’s life and future as summer unfolds.
