The period from May through August is known as the "100 Deadliest Days of Summer," particularly for teenage drivers. Even though teens constitute only 5% of licensed drivers in Nebraska, they account for a disproportionate 21% of fatal crashes.
However, there is encouraging data indicating an 8% decrease in teenage traffic fatalities since 2020. This improvement can be due to targeted messaging campaigns that promote safe driving behaviors among teens and use relatable messengers to capture their attention effectively.
Why do teen driver crashes increase during the 100 Deadliest Days?
According to the Nebraska Highway Safety Administrator, approximately 70% or more of fatalities from car accidents on Nebraska roads involve drivers not wearing a seatbelt, and teenage drivers are no exception. Distracted driving and speeding are also significant contributors, accounting for 30% of these fatalities. Teenagers are particularly susceptible to distractions such as cell phones, passengers, and other activities that take their attention away from the road. Their lack of experience behind the wheel can also lead to poor decision-making and increased risk-taking behaviors.
Other common causes of teen driver car accidents during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer include:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Nighttime driving
- Driving with teen passengers
- Peer pressure to engage in risky behavior
How can teen driver car accidents be prevented during the 100 Deadliest Days?
Preventing teen driver car accidents requires a multi-faceted approach. Parents play a key role in influencing their teenage drivers' behavior. William Kovarik, the Nebraska highway safety administrator, states, "Teens will most often listen to a parent above anyone else, even though parents may not think they're listening or may not think that they influence them. Parents are the greatest influence on their teens. So we need to remember as parents to remind our teens continually and to check in with them."
Therefore, it's important for parents to get involved by doing the following:
- Practicing safe driving habits themselves to set a good example.
- Establishing rules and consequences.
- Supervising their teen's driving.
- Limiting passengers and nighttime driving.
- Encouraging seatbelt use.
- Discussing the dangers of impaired driving, distractions, and speeding.
However, parents can only do so much. It's also important for teen drivers to do their part to prevent crashes during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer. That includes:
- Obeying all speed limits and traffic laws.
- Keeping cell phones in "do not disturb" mode and/or out of reach.
- Keeping a safe following distance from other vehicles.
- Always avoid driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
What should you do if you or a loved one were injured in a crash?
Regardless of your age or how careful you may be, accidents can happen to anyone. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash involving a negligent driver in Nebraska, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. An experienced Omaha car accident attorney at Ausman Law Firm, P.C., L.L.O. can protect your rights and fight to maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other related losses.
Since 2007, our law firm has been dedicated to helping crash victims seek justice and rebuild their lives. Don't face this alone—contact us today for a free consultation. There's no obligation, and you don't owe us any fees unless we secure a recovery for you.
"I just would like to say thank you to Jason and his team. They kept me informed the whole process. They were very thorough with everything that needed to be done and I couldn't be happier. I'm very glad that they represented my daughter and me in court." — Roxanne F.