With Memorial Day last week kicking off Summer 2026, safety officials are reminding travelers that the stretch of months between late May and Labor Day brings a sharp rise in serious auto crashes across Pennsylvania.
AAA calls this period the “100 Deadliest Days” because fatal crashes involving teen drivers increase during summer months. This pattern affects communities throughout Eastern PA.
What makes summer so dangerous?
Statistics show that more than 30% of deaths involving teen drivers happen during this summer window, reflecting a statewide trend that places all road users at higher risk. Also, summer brings heavier traffic on roads, including the often-congested I‑95 corridor, Route 1 and the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
During these months, families travel, teens spend more time on the road and visitors head toward Philadelphia, the Jersey Shore and nearby regional attractions. The increased traffic can lead to sudden slowdowns, lane changes and high‑speed conflicts that raise the likelihood of severe crashes.
Some driving behaviors are risky
AAA’s analysis of Pennsylvania crash data highlights several behaviors that contribute to summer crash risk for teen drivers, including the following:
- Episodes of distracted driving
- Speeding
- Running red lights
- Impaired driving
- Drowsy driving
Back in 2023, 2,897 people nationwide were killed in crashes involving teen drivers, and 860 of those deaths happened during the 100 deadliest days. Pennsylvania’s share of these crashes reflects the same seasonal spike, with more fatal teen‑involved collisions occurring during summer than at any other time of year.
If you’re injured in a collision
No matter the age of the driver who caused your wreck, you could face a long road to healing. The medical bills alone can wipe out an individual’s or a family’s savings.
Filing a claim for damages is the first step that initiates the claims process and offers victims a path to civil justice for their injuries, damages and losses.