Now that Memorial Day weekend has passed, the most anticipated days of summer are coming. Who doesn’t like the long, warm days (and nights) where hanging out with friends dominates the season. Summer is nirvana for teen drivers, especially those who recently obtained their licenses during the school year.
Indeed, Pennsylvania has graduated licensing requirements that imposes restrictions on teen drivers, but the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is still known as the 100 deadliest days of summer. It gains this moniker because the number of auto accidents involving young people tends to increase during the summer months. As we alluded to earlier, teens are more apt to be on the road (even when they shouldn’t be) during the long summer days.
Also, young drivers are more likely to experiment with alcohol and illegal drugs before getting behind the wheel, and they may not understand the impact that these substances may have on their judgment and motor skills; two things that can be compromised by alcohol and drugs. Further, distracted driving (i.e. texting and driving) could lead to lapses in judgment that cause accidents as well.
Because of this, it is important for young drivers and their parents to have discussions about the dangers of distracted driving as well as drunk driving. This is important because of the lifelong implications a criminal charge could have, as well as the civil implications (i.e. the financial issues) that can come about if an accident occurs.
The preceding is not legal advice, but it is always helpful to discuss your individual situation with an experienced personal injury attorney.