Peter Schorsch
Florida is more than a third of the way into the 100 Deadliest Days, a period when fatal traffic accidents involving teens increase nationwide as young drivers enjoy summer break and spend more time traveling on roads.
Already, 90 people have died during the period, including a tragic accident earlier this week in Fort Myers that claimed the lives of five teens.
Recognizing the dire consequences, Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody is reminding drivers to employ extra caution this holiday weekend as roads become even more congested.
“As a mother, it is heartbreaking to hear the stories of young lives cut short in terrible traffic accidents. As we enter the holiday weekend and prepare to celebrate our nation’s independence, please remember to buckle up, don’t text from behind the wheel, and never drink and drive,” Moody said.
Between Memorial Day — the beginning of the 100 Deadliest Days — and Labor Day seven people die a day from accidents involving teen motorists, according to Moody’s Office.
So far this month, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Crash Dashboard, reports:
— 16,994 crashes.
— 95 fatal accidents.
— 6,931 chases causing injuries.
— 191 crashes involving alcohol.
The Fourth of July is the second-deadliest holiday for drunk drivers, behind only New Year’s Eve.
Reports show 493 people nationwide died in crashes over the holiday weekend in 2021 and more than 200 of those accidents involved alcohol. Additionally, 1,460 people died in accidents during the holiday period from 2017 to 2021, with more than 550 of those fatal crashes involving alcohol impairment.
Research shows fatal crashes on Independence Day peak between 9 and 10 p.m.
Moody is asking parents and guardians to talk to teens about road safety and the increased risk of fatal accidents during the summer.
