Summer marks ‘100 deadliest days’ for teen drivers, Palm Springs police share safety recommendations

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day are known as the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers, with a 30% increase in crashes involving teens during the summer months, according to AAA.

"A lot of them just got their license and they're super excited. They got that freedom. And a lot of times they go out there and they're overconfident," says Captain Gustavo Araiza with Palm Springs Police.

In 2023 alone, there was around 2,900 deaths resulting from crashes involving a teen driver, according to AAA.

Araiza recommends teens drive defensively. "It's not just about trying to get there fast, but it's trying to anticipate what the other drivers are doing before they do it," says Araiza.

He also warns teens limit distractions like cellphones and loud music. For concerned parents, he says they may consider apps or devices that allow them to keep an eye on their teens driving.

"It's constantly having discussions about their driving behaviors, and one of the ways they could keep track of their driving behaviors is through technology," he says.

Local parents like Ruby Rivera say knowing her son's location gives her peace of mind. Rivera says she always reminds her 17-year-old son to leave early to avoid speeding.

"Once he feels late, he might rush a little bit while driving. And that's where small accidents can happen," she says.

Rivera says she's most concerned about distracted driving when it comes to her son hitting the road. She tells her son to always stay vigilant. "Even though you're following the rules, you have to be aware that not everyone else is on the road," says Rivera.