As the summer season approaches, many of us eagerly anticipate the freedom, warmth, and adventure that come with it. However, amidst the joys of summer, there lies an unfortunate truth: the “100 Deadliest Days” on the road. This period, spanning from Memorial Day to Labor Day, sees a significant increase in accidents, making it crucial to be aware of the potential risks and take proactive measures to ensure your safety.
Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend is the most dangerous time of year for drivers, especially young ones. AAA shows that an average of 7 young people are killed every day during this time in automobile accidents.
One of the causes of many accidents during this time Is distracted driving. We all know cell phone usage is deadly while driving, but in this tech addicted age, we just can’t seem to help ourselves. Here are a few things you can do to minimize distracted driving: start your music playlists or audio books before beginning to drive; connect to your phone via Bluetooth; use Siri or google assistant to verbally send texts: “Hey Siri, send mom a text”; or keep your phone out of arms reach so you aren’t tempted to peek.
Impaired Driving is a dangerous game to play when driving during the summer. Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, beach and boat days, often leave people having more than they anticipated. Call a friend, ride share, or taxi if you feel like you are even the slightest bit impaired. It is simply not worth the financial or criminal risk you would face when trying to drive home. Not only may you be arrested for DUI, but you can also be charged for Aggravated Vehicular Homicide if you wreck and kill someone while driving impaired.
Summer vacation plans mean more people on the road. The more people on the road, the more opportunity for mistakes. When traveling, The National Safety Council recommends keeping a 3 second distance. You determine this distance by picking out a point out in front of the car you are following like a tree or sign. Once the car you are following passes that point, start counting 1-1000, 2-1000, 3-100. If it doesn’t take you at least 3 seconds, then you need to leave more room. During rain or low visibility, it is recommended that you leave more than 3 seconds.
While summer brings ample opportunities for enjoyment, it also demands heightened vigilance on the road. By understanding the risks associated with the 100 Deadliest Days, adopting responsible driving habits, and talking with your teens about their driving habits, we can navigate this perilous period with greater safety and peace of mind. Let’s prioritize our well-being and that of others by spreading awareness and taking the necessary precautions during this summer season.