According to AAA, statistics show a sharp increase in automobile fatalities involving teen drivers from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

The span of time, referred to as the 100 deadliest days, aligns with the end of one school year and the beginning of another. More free time indicates more drive time, and for teens, who are often relatively new to being behind the wheel, driving can be a real risk.

Across the nation, 7,435 people died in teen driver-related crashes over the 100 deadliest days between 2013 and 2022, according to the National Highway and Traffic Association.

A May 2024 report by AAA indicates 790 people were killed in teen-driver crashes in 2022 alone. It notes the 2022 numbers are up from pre-pandemic (2019) numbers. Specifically, 2022 fatalities were up by 10% compared to 2019, and 2021 numbers were up by 25% compared to 2019.

Running for a portion of the 100 deadliest days is an initiative by Cranberry Township police. Beginning last week, Thursday, June 6, the department is running a two-week Slow Down campaign.

The campaign places radar speed signs in neighborhoods and increases police presence in those areas. The process will be repeated later as the next school year begins. It’s modeled off a Nebraska-based initiative called “Keep Kids Alive – Drive 25.”

If it keeps one teen driver alive, it’s worth it, Cranberry Township police told us.

We agree. As summer gets into full swing, caution the young drivers in your life to slow down and take precautions.

— TL