ORLANDO, Fla. — Fatal crashes continue to rise across Florida. With teens out of school now, they are at a greater risk on our roads.
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Data shows more than 30% of deaths involving teen drivers happen during Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Traffic agencies across the state are hoping teens heed their warning.
We are now in the period known as the 100 deadliest days for teen drivers.
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“Everyone should be conscious that we all have a duty to drive safe,” said Melissa Valido, with the Florida Teen Safe Driving Coalition.
The Florida Department of Transportation said average crashes and fatalities involving teens increase 16% from Memorial Day to Labor Day as kids are out of school.
“Be aware of your surroundings. You can only control yourself and your vehicle,” said Lt. Tara Crescenzi.
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AAA expects two years’ worth of pent-up travel demand will lead to more traffic, which raises the crash risk, especially for young drivers.
“Teens don’t have a lot of experience on the road. It’s something that they have to kind of work through to get that experience. But in the meantime, of that there’s dangers,” Valido said.
Remind your teens to stay focused, drive the speed limit, and don’t drive when drowsy or impaired. Also, remember to buckle up.
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AAA said teen drivers’ crash risk multiplies when they have teen passengers.
AAA said it is important to set limits for your kids and enforce them.
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