The “100 Deadliest Days” refers to the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, when fatal crashes involving teen drivers increase nationwide. The Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition urges families, schools, and communities to take action and help protect teen drivers during this high-risk time.
Distraction plays a key role as the cause of teen crashes. According to the AAA Foundation for Safety, distraction plays a role in nearly six out of 10 teen crashes. Distractions like phone use and passenger interaction are major risk factors.
Safety belts save lives. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 50 percent of passengers killed while riding with teen drivers in 2023 were not buckled up. Teens who consistently wear safety belts greatly reduce their chances of dying in a crash.
Speeding is another top risk. According to NHTSA, speeding was a factor in 29 percent of all fatal crashes in 2023. Research by AAA found it was involved in 34 percent of fatal teen driver crashes.
Teen drivers face the highest crash risk by age. According to the National Safety Council, drivers ages 16 to 19 are involved in 4.8 fatal crashes per 100 million miles, nearly twice the rate of drivers in their twenties. According to AAA, 31 percent of all teen driver fatalities from 2019 to 2023 occurred during summer.
Parents play a key role. Set rules about phone use, passengers, speed, and safety belt use. Model safe behavior behind the wheel. Together, we can reduce crashes and save lives during the 100 Deadliest Days and beyond.
Tips to Keep Teen Drivers Safe
Limit Passengers. When a teen driver has their friends in the car, the risk of a crash increases dramatically! Two additional passengers increase the risk of a crash by 158%.
Eliminate Distractions. It’s just not worth the risk! That text, social media interaction, or email can wait. Instead, focus on driving, or pull over to a safe location if you must interact with your phone.
Restrict Nighttime Driving. Night driving is riskier for teens due to low visibility, inexperience, and fatigue. Florida law sets curfews for licensed drivers ages 16 and 17 during nighttime hours.
Obey Posted Speed Limits. Speed is a factor in more than 33% of all fatal teen crashes. By paying attention and obeying all posted speed limits, we can all greatly reduce the likelihood of being involved in a crash.
Pay Attention. It only takes a second of driver inattention to trigger a fatal outcome. Scanning the road ahead helps you remain alert and be prepared for hazards or traffic conditions.
Buckle Up. Using a safety belt is one of the most effective ways to save lives and reduce injuries in crashes. Encourage teens to buckle up every trip, every time.
Never Drive Impaired. Drugs and alcohol can alter your ability, perception, attention, coordination, reaction time, and other skills needed to drive alert and safe. Never ride with an impaired driver and always have a plan to get home safe!
Download our Social Media Kit:
The Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition created a set of social media graphics and supporting content to raise awareness about the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. Download the 100 Deadliest Days Social Media Kit, which includes images and sample posts for Facebook, Instagram, and X. Together, we have the power to make a difference and move toward zero fatalities and serious injury crashes on our roadways. Be sure to use the hashtags #FLTeenSafeDriver and #100DeadliestDays.
To request FREE printed materials to help raise awareness, please click here.
