‘100 Deadliest Days’ Begins For Teen Drivers: AAA Warning

With Memorial Day signaling the unofficial kickoff of summer, it's important to be aware of the increased risk for young drivers during this time. According to AAA, the period known as the "100 Deadliest Days," spanning from Memorial Day to Labor Day, sees over 30 percent of teen driver-related fatalities nationwide.

The AAA shared that summer can be risky for teen drivers. With school out, you'll find more teens hitting the road, often with their friends, at all sorts of weird hours. And since they're still new to driving, they're more likely to engage in dangerous behaviors like speeding, getting distracted, or neglecting to wear seat belts. That's why AAA is really urging parents to lead by example and instill safe driving habits in their teenage drivers.

Nationally, around 2,108 teen drivers are involved in fatal crashes every year. What's even more alarming is that about 31% of these crashes happen during what they call the "100 Deadliest Days." Sadly, these crashes result in an average of 2,341 deaths annually, with 732 of those fatalities occurring during those same "100 Deadliest Days."

Regarding road safety for teens, there are a few key points to remember. Distracted driving is a major risk, especially with electronics and teen passengers. Driving with teen passengers increases the likelihood of fatal crashes. Speeding is a significant factor in almost 30% of teen fatal crashes, said AAA. And wearing seat belts significantly reduces the risk of severe injuries or death.

According to AAA, parents can play a crucial role in promoting safe driving habits for their teens. They suggest parents lead by example, practice at least 50 supervised driving hours in various conditions, teach defensive driving skills, and establish a parent-teen driving agreement with clear rules and consequences. Parents can help shape their teens into responsible and safe drivers by being actively involved and providing guidance.

Nowadays, it seems like car manufactures and designers are putting more and more features in new cars. Sometimes, it's to make the car sleeker in appearance or give the car or give the driver more benefits with their vehicle. Many drivers can become intimidated or overwhelmed by the technology of cars. From cruise control and assisted parking to Bluetooth connection and more.

In a poll by SWNSDigital.com, they found the top new car features people struggle with the most. They gathered their data by polling 500 car owners with vehicles less than two years old. The results showed 20 pieces of technology in a car that "baffle modern car owners."

According to the poll, 68 percent of the "struggle to get to grips with everything." While 40 percent don’t believe they're using their car to its full potential. Also found in the research, is that it took about six months for 55 percent to discover their car came with certain features.

Dr Martha Newson, cognitive psychologist who facilitated the consumer study said they proved that over half of drivers are missing out on the full experience of their vehicle. "With any car purchase being one of life's bigger spends, drivers should take more time understanding the tech available at their fingertips, so they don't miss out on safer, more comfortable and more pleasurable experiences, every time they get in the car," said Newson.

The feature that most people feel that they aren't using happens to be cruise control.  It's been around for quite some time. Surprisingly, at the bottom of the list is blind-spot alert, massage seats, and 360-degree cameras. Some may find features like a heated steering wheel, remote engine start, and climate control easy.

You can view the full list here.