AAA is urging drivers to commit to “100 Days of Safe Driving” between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  Designed by Magnific

SACRAMENTO REGION, CA (MPG) - Memorial Day marks the beginning of the summer driving season, a time when teens gain more independence behind the wheel, families hit the road for vacations and celebrations bring more drivers onto the nation’s roadways. To encourage safer choices during this high-travel period, AAA is urging drivers to commit to “100 Days of Safe Driving” between Memorial Day and Labor Day.  

This message comes at a critical time as an AAA review of national crash data shows that more than 30% of fatal crashes involving teen drivers and nearly one-third of all impaired-driving fatalities occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day. By making smart choices behind the wheel, drivers can help make summer roads safer for everyone.

In 2024 alone, the most recent year of complete crash data, 2,636 people were killed in crashes involving a teen driver. One-third of those deaths, 825, happened in the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. 

“The ‘100 Days of Safe Driving’ campaign is about encouraging drivers to make simple choices behind the wheel that can help save lives,” said Doug Johnson, spokesperson for AAA Mountain West Group. “By staying focused, slowing down, wearing your seatbelt, and making plans for a safe ride home, every driver can ensure all road users make it home safe this summer.”

AAA encourages teens to use the summer months as an opportunity to build safe driving habits through the following actions: 

Limiting distractions. Put away cellphones, keep your eyes on the road, limit the number of passengers in your vehicle. 

Obey posted speed limits. Speeding is the leading factor in fatal teen crashes during the summer.  

Wear Your Seatbelt. Ensure you and your passengers are fastened before driving. 

Never drive impaired or drowsy. Alcohol, illegal and prescription substances seriously impair someone’s ability to drive. Drowsy driving is nearly as dangerous as driving under the influence.

Slow down, move over. With a record number of travelers on the road this holiday weekend, AAA reminds drivers to put safety first, Slow Down Move Over for all stopped vehicles on the roadside. 

Parents also play an important role by setting expectations early and modeling safe behavior behind the wheel.

Take advantage of AAA Driver Training Resources for essential tools teen drivers need to safely prepare for navigating the road.

Summer celebrations and travel can also increase the risk of impaired driving. According to AAA crash data analysis, nearly one in three summertime traffic deaths involves an impaired driver. AAA, in partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving, reminds everyone to arrange a safe ride home before going out.