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From Memorial Day to Labor Day, teens at highest risk for crashes

On Behalf of | Jun 5, 2019 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has stated that the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the “100 deadliest days for teen drivers,” so parents in New York may want to take notice. Teens are out on the road more during the summer, and they sometimes drive impaired by drugs and alcohol on their way back from parties. And to begin with, teens are inexperienced behind the wheel. These explain AAA’s position.

During those 100 days, teens are about 15% more likely to get in a fatal car crash. With some parental guidance and the establishment of safe driving practices, though, teens can remain fairly safe during this season. It all starts with having a well-maintained vehicle. Teens should be aware that under-inflated tires, for example, or bad brakes will compromise their safety.

Teens should plan out their routes beforehand; that way, they do not become lost and distracted. All distracting activities should be avoided, especially phone use. If having many passengers in the car is distracting, limit their number.

Avoiding drowsy, drugged and drunk driving goes without saying. Teens may also want to minimize the amount of time spent driving at night when visibility is undermined. They should be careful around construction zones. Lastly, the law requires everyone to buckle up.

Teens who get in a motor vehicle crash may be deemed at fault. In this state, one can file a personal injury claim even if one is partially to blame, but the actual filing and the negotiating for a settlement can be difficult. Those injured by a negligent teen driver may want to speak with a lawyer. The lawyer may have investigators gather proof against the defendant, which could encompass the police report, physical evidence at the crash site and phone records.

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