Why the 100 Deadliest Days Are Especially Dangerous for Teen Drivers in San Antonio
The summer break should be a time for teens to relax and enjoy their freedom. But behind the wheel, it can quickly turn tragic. The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is nationally recognized as the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers, and the data is particularly alarming in Texas.
According to AAA Texas, more than 1,460 people died in crashes involving teen drivers in Texas between 2019 and 2023. Nearly a third of those deaths happened during the summer months. Across the U.S., an average of eight people per day lose their lives in teen-involved crashes during this time.
What Makes Teen Driving More Dangerous During Summer?
With school out, many teen drivers in San Antonio have more free time, fewer structured routines, and often drive without adult supervision.
These conditions create a perfect storm for dangerous behavior behind the wheel:
- Inexperience: Teens are still developing the judgment and reaction times needed to navigate high-traffic areas and sudden hazards.
- Distractions: From smartphones to passengers, distractions play a major role in teen crashes. AAA reports that 60% of teen crashes involve some form of distraction.
- Speeding: Speeding is a factor in nearly 30% of fatal teen driving crashes.
- Not Wearing Seatbelts: More than half of teen drivers killed in crashes weren’t buckled up.
- Driving Under the Influence: One in ten teens admits to drinking and driving, a disturbing trend that spikes in the summer.
San Antonio Crash Victims Have Legal Options
When a teen driver’s mistake leads to a serious injury or fatal crash, victims are often left with life-changing consequences—medical bills, lost income, and overwhelming grief. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a crash involving a teen driver, you may be able to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.
The San Antonio car accident lawyers at The Herrera Law Firm have been fighting for injured crash victims for generations. We understand the devastating impact of these crashes and know how to hold negligent drivers and their insurance companies accountable.
Parents: How to Help Keep Your Teen Safe
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety encourages parents to discuss responsible driving with their teens in an open and honest manner. As a parent, you can help reduce the risks by:
- Setting clear rules about speeding, seatbelts, passengers, and phone use.
- Leading by example—your own driving habits shape your teen’s driving habits.
- Creating a written driving agreement to spell out expectations and consequences.
- Enforcing Texas GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) rules, which restrict night driving and limit young passengers.
What to Do If You're Injured in a Crash With a Teen Driver
Even good kids can make dangerous mistakes on the road. If you or a family member is hurt in a crash involving a teen driver, it’s critical to act quickly. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages or future earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral costs in wrongful death cases
At The Herrera Law Firm, our car accident attorneys can investigate your crash, gather critical evidence, and deal with the at-fault driver's insurance company while you focus on healing. And if they won’t negotiate fairly, we’re ready to take your case to trial.
Justice for Families in the Wake of Teen Crashes
Every summer, families across Texas are devastated by teen driver crashes that could have been prevented. If your family is one of them, don’t face this alone. Our legal team is here to help you demand accountability and move forward.
If a teen driver’s actions caused your injury, we’re ready to fight for you.
Contact The Herrera Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation. There are no obligations, and we offer legal representation to accident victims on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay absolutely nothing unless we win your case.
