The summer months can be some of the most dangerous on the road, especially for teen drivers. The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often called the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer because of the spike in fatal teen driving crashes during this season.
Teens are out of school, on the road more often, and more likely to drive at night or with friends, which are all risk factors for accidents. If your teen is hurt in a crash, our Louisiana car accident lawyer will explain your rights and help you take legal action.
We can also help if your family is dealing with the aftermath of a teen-related accident. You can learn more about your legal options during a free consultation with our team.
What Are the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer?”
While school is out, crash statistics paint a serious picture: teen drivers face their highest risk of deadly crashes during summer break. In its news release, AAA has identified this period—between Memorial Day and Labor Day—as the “100 Deadliest Days” due to the consistent rise in fatal accidents involving young drivers each year.
According to AAA, a national group that studies driving trends and promotes safe travel, more than 30% of all fatal crashes involving teens happen during these months.
Teen drivers are already more likely to be in an accident due to inexperience. However, during summer, those risks multiply. This is why parents, caregivers, and teens themselves should be especially cautious.
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ClientWhy Are Teen Driving Accidents More Common in the Summer?
Teens are new to driving, which already makes them more likely to crash than older, experienced drivers. Add summer freedom, social outings, and holiday travel, and the risk increases even more.
Here’s why summer is so dangerous:
- More time on the road: With no school and more free time, teens are more likely to drive longer distances and more frequently.
- Nighttime driving: Teen crashes increase at night, and in the summer, teenagers are more likely to stay out late.
- Distractions: Teen drivers are more likely to have friends in the car or be distracted by phones, music, or a GPS (global positioning system) device.
- Speeding and risk–taking: Inexperience combined with peer pressure may lead to speeding or other reckless behavior.
- Alcohol use: Summer parties and gatherings can lead to underage drinking, which may result in impaired driving.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientWhat Parents Should Know About Teen Driving in Louisiana
Parents play a key role in helping their teens stay safe on the road. Louisiana law also makes parents responsible in certain situations if a teen causes a crash.
For example, parents may be liable for teen driving accidents in Louisiana if they knowingly allow their child to drive while unsafe or unlicensed.
In addition:
- Louisiana has a graduated licensing system. Teens begin with a learner’s permit and eventually earn a full license.
- There are restrictions on nighttime driving and the number of passengers for newly licensed teens.
- Auto insurance policies for teens may carry higher premiums due to the increased risk.
If your teen is learning to drive, set clear rules, talk about risks, and lead by example. Let them know that driving is a responsibility, not a right.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientWhat if Your Teen Gets Into an Accident?
It’s scary to think about, but accidents do happen, even to responsible young drivers. If your teenager is involved in a crash, you should:
- First, make sure they are safe and get medical help. Even if there are no visible injuries, you should take them to a doctor for an evaluation.
- Collect information from the scene, if possible, such as names, photos, vehicle info, and insurance.
- Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Contact a lawyer if anyone is hurt or at fault for the accident.
Here’s what to do if your teenager is involved in an accident, including steps to take at the scene and in the days after.
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ClientWho Is Liable in a Teen Driver Crash?
Liability depends on several factors, including who was driving, who owns the car, and how the accident happened. In Louisiana:
- The teen driver may be liable if they caused the crash.
- Parents may be responsible if they allow an unfit teen to drive.
- The vehicle owner could be liable if they let someone borrow the car, knowing it would be used recklessly.
- Instructors or schools may be liable for a student driver crash.
It is important to know who’s liable if a student driver is involved in an accident. These cases can get complex, and speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand what’s fair and what steps to take.
Common Injuries in Teen Driving Crashes
Even at low speeds, car crashes can cause serious injuries, especially to younger, smaller drivers and passengers. Some common injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Whiplash or neck pain
- Head injuries or concussions
- Cuts and bruises
- Internal injuries
Severe crashes can lead to long-term trauma or permanent disability. In the worst cases, families may face the heartbreak of losing a child or another loved one.
No matter how serious the injury, it’s important to get medical care, follow up with treatment, and speak with a lawyer if someone else was at fault.
Recoverable Damages After a Teen Driver Crash
If your teen was injured—or your family suffered losses due to a teen driving accident—you may be able to recover damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages (if the injured person is an adult or working teen)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Funeral costs in fatal crashes
Your case must be filed within two years under Louisiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits under CC Art. 3493.1. Acting quickly can help protect your family’s rights and preserve key evidence.
How We Help Louisiana Families in Accidents Involving Teen Drivers
When your family is dealing with the aftermath of a teen driving accident, you may feel overwhelmed, confused, or angry. We will guide you through the process and:
- Investigate the crash and gather evidence that supports your claim
- Handle communications with insurance companies to protect your case
- File your insurance claim and meet all filing deadlines
- Calculate fair damages and build a strong case for your damages
- Represent you at trial if we cannot settle your case outside of court
We will work to take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your teen’s health and recovery.
We Will Stand by You After a Teen Driving Accident
At Laborde Earles, we know how devastating a teen driving accident can be. We are not just your legal team—we’re part of the Louisiana community and treat every client like family.
Our firm has:
- Over 30 years of experience helping families across Louisiana
- Recovered more than $1 billion in verdicts and settlements
- 350+ years of combined personal injury experience
- A family-oriented, community-focused team committed to protecting your rights
- A promise to handle your case at no cost—you don’t pay unless we win
- Free consultations to help you understand your next steps
We understand the teen driving risks that can occur during the “100 deadliest days of summer,” and are here to manage what comes next.
Whether your teen was hurt or another driver caused the crash, we will explain your options, investigate what happened, and fight for the full damages your family deserves.
Call us today for your free case review. Let’s talk about how we can help you move forward.
