AAA warns of ‘100 Deadliest Days’ for teen drivers as summer begins

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — As summer kicks off, AAA is informing residents on what it calls the “100 Deadliest Days” the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal crashes involving teen drivers increase.

“We’re in a time period now known in traffic safety as the 100 deadliest days,” said Nick Chabarria, a spokesperson for AAA. “It’s the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when we typically see teen deaths on our roadways rise.”

According to Chabarria, roughly one-third of all fatal crashes involving teen drivers each year occur during this summer stretch. He encourages parents and guardians to take proactive steps.

“It’s an important time for young drivers and their families to talk about how to stay safe on the roads and understand the risks they might face,” he said.

Missouri, in particular, has seen troubling trends. Between 2019 and 2023, 413 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers across the state. In 2023 alone, Missouri reported 97 such fatalities.. This ranking fourth-highest in the nation on a per capita basis. In comparison, Illinois ranked 29th, just below the national average.

“We really have some work to do here in the state,” Chabarria added.

Cape Girardeau residents say they’ve noticed a seasonal uptick in road accidents as well.

“I would say yes,” said Betsy Markhart, who previously worked at a hospital. “It was always busier in the summer than the rest of the year.” Fellow resident Jairo Sanchez agreed.

Chabarria encourages parents to take action by talking to their teens about traffic laws and even creating a written driving agreement.

“The simplest thing they can do is just have that conversation,” he said. “Safe driving agreements, you can find templates online, they are a great way for families to establish their own rules and expectations.”

He also encouraged the importance of setting a good example behind the wheel.

“Drive how you want your kids to drive when they’re not with you,” Chabarria said. “From a very young age, kids are watching how their parents drive.”

As for what Cape Girardeau residents want their neighbors to remember?

“Look for motorcycles and pedestrians,” Markhart said.