Summer is just around the corner for residents of Maryland, and teens in particular will be thrilled to be enjoying warmer temperatures, longer days, and a lengthy school break. Unfortunately, many of the attractions of the season can also combine forces to create an increased risk of auto accidents. The phenomenon known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer” – running from June through August – is when teens are at a 26% higher risk of being involved in fatal teen car accidents as compared to other nine months of the year.
With an eye to safety and preventing teen auto crashes, researchers have identified the “8 Danger Zones” related to driving that have a particular effect on young people. Regardless of whether you are a teen driver, a parent, or someone sharing the road with a younger motorist, it is important to understand these factors and how they impact car accidents in Baltimore County, MD.
Eight Danger Zones are Cause for Concern
There are certain risk factors that are not within the control of a teen driver. But a few other danger zones are a conscious, albeit poor, decision. They include:
- Experience:
Teens simply do not have as much time behind the wheel as adults. So they have not developed skills and the ability to react to accident-related situations. Parents can help by encouraging and participating in practice. - Distracted Driving:
Around 60% of all teen auto crashes are linked to texting, talking on the phone, posting to social media, and other unlawful cell phone use. - Teen Passengers:
Conversation and interaction with others in the vehicle can be just as much of a distraction as a cell phone. The danger is amplified when a teen is in the driver’s seat. - Reckless Driving:
Some teen motorists seeking to impress their peers may engage in unsafe acts that constitute reckless driving. Such as drag racing, tailgating, or driving excessive speeds. - Failing to Buckle Up:
Despite decades of public awareness campaigns and statistics on how seatbelts save lives, wearing a safety restraint might be considered “uncool” by some younger drivers. - Night Driving:
When combined with a lack of experience, operating a vehicle at night puts younger motorists at extreme risk of car accidents. - Drowsy Driving:
Longer days of summer mean later nights for teens. This can sometimes lead to fatigue when they get behind the wheel. - Drunk Driving:
While obviously illegal, those under 21 years old still consume alcohol and/or drugs when having fun with friends. A young person who then decides to drive puts everyone on the road at risk of serious collisions.
Consult with a Baltimore, MD Car Accident Attorney for Free
Together, the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer and the Eight Danger Zones for teens combine to create a considerable risk of crashes from June through August. If you were involved in a collision, please contact attorney Michael A. Freedman to schedule a no-cost case evaluation. Once we review your circumstances, we can advise you on legal options.
