Rutherford County, TN -  As summer kicks off, local officials are warning parents and teen drivers about the dangers of the 100 Deadliest Days—the stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day when teen-involved crashes spike dramatically. Tennessee crash data shows that teen drivers in Rutherford County face higher risks during this period, with distraction, speeding, and failure to wear seatbelts among the leading causes of fatal accidents.

According to the Tennessee Department of Safety, teen crash rates increase significantly in summer months, mirroring national trends. On average, eight people lose their lives every day in a teen-related crash nationwide during this time.

"Teens are on the road more often in summer, often with friends, which increases the risk of distraction and dangerous driving habits," said Megan Cooper, spokesperson for AAA – The Auto Club Group. "Many feel invincible behind the wheel, but crashes hit different when they happen to you—and by then, it’s too late."

Local Risk Factors for Teen Drivers - New teen drivers (ages 16-17) are nearly three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash compared to adults. The biggest contributing factors include:

• Distraction: Nearly six out of ten teen crashes involve some form of distraction, with teen passengers and cell phones being the top culprits.
• Speeding: Almost 30% of fatal teen crashes involve excessive speed.
• Failure to wear a seatbelt: Seatbelt use significantly reduces the likelihood of serious injury or death.
• Driving with teen passengers: Studies show that the risk of a fatal crash increases with each additional teen passenger.

AAA’s Advice for Parents - AAA urges parents to take proactive steps to ensure their teens are driving safely:

• Lead by example. Model good driving behavior by avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits, and always buckling up.
• Provide at least 50 hours of supervised driving practice. Give teens experience driving in diverse conditions—nighttime, inclement weather, highways, and busy streets.
• Teach defensive driving skills. Encourage teens to anticipate hazards, stay alert, and maintain a safe following distance.
• Create a parent-teen driving agreement. Establish clear rules about when, where, and with whom your teen can drive.

'Crashes Hit Different' This Summer

AAA’s "Crashes Hit Different" campaign highlights the four leading contributors to traffic injuries and fatalities for all drivers: impaired driving, distractions, not buckling up, and speed. The Auto Club Group is partnering with roadway safety organizations and community groups in Rutherford County to reduce teen crash rates and prevent senseless tragedies.

For more information on teen driver safety, visit AAA’s Driver Education Resources.