100 Deadliest Days of Driving

100 Deadliest Days of Driving

As summer continues and we approach Labor Day so does the trend on the roads called the “100 Deadliest Days.” Started by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), it is the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal car accidents involving teenagers spike. This is when young drivers are out of school and often driving more. While summer should be fun, Dr. Aaron Workman, a patient favorite at one of the highest rated auto injury medical clinics in Lexington, Kentucky, emphasizes the importance of knowing the risks and staying safe.

During these days, the NHTSA notes fatal teen driver accidents increase by about 16% compared to other times. In 2019, 2,080 people died in crashes involving a teen driver during this period. Many factors contribute. As a father of four it is important to understand these risks and relay those risks to my own upcoming teen drivers.

One of the significant issues is the inexperience of teen drivers. Many are still learning the ropes of driving and may lack the necessary skills to handle challenging situations on the road. They just will not know the best thing to do unless they practice. Distractions are also a concern, with teenagers frequently engaging in activities like social media or chatting with friends while driving, diverting their attention from the road ahead.

Peer pressure can also play a role during the summer months when teens are more likely to have friends in the car. This pressure might lead to risky behaviors such as speeding or showing off, always increasing the risk of accidents. The presence of alcohol and drugs at summer parties further compounds the dangers on the road, as some teenagers might choose to drive while impaired. Communicate that it is always ok to call you in this situation.

Nighttime driving poses additional risks for young drivers. If they are not good drivers during the day, they will be even worse at night. Reduced visibility and the potential for driver fatigue make nighttime driving hazardous. Seat belt usage also tends to decrease among teenagers during the summer, increasing the chances of severe injuries in the event of a car accident.

Parents play a crucial role in setting the tone for safe driving habits. Establish clear driving rules, including curfews and restrictions on the number of passengers. Be the role model as kids will do what you do when driving. Talk with your teens about the dangers of impaired and distracted driving and provide lots of driving practice to build experience for different situations.

For the teens it is important to be proactive. Avoid distractions such as your phone while driving and always wear your seat belt. Adhere to speed limits and other traffic rules, especially when driving with friends. If you are new to driving, limit nighttime driving until you’re more experienced and confident. Never assume other drivers will do what they are supposed to do. If you do not expect people to stop at a stop sign, you will never be caught off guard when they run one.

In the end, being a responsible and cautious driver can significantly reduce the risks. Safety should always be a top priority, especially during the months when the fun of summer activities can overshadow the hidden dangers on the road.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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Have you been in a car accident? If you or somebody you know has been in a car accident, be sure that you seek medical attention from a car accident doctor or car accident chiropractor to treat your injuries. Visit Chambers Medical Group  to receive world-class medical treatment for your injuries.

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