The 100 Deadliest Days are ending. Safe driving season isn't. | PEMCO

Labor Day marks the unofficial end of summer and the end of the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers. But safe driving isn't seasonal. 

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the 100 Deadliest Days because teen drivers face a higher risk of being involved in serious crashes during the summer months. School is out, schedules change; roads are busier, and young drivers often spend more time behind the wheel. 

As families settle into back-to-school routines, it's worth remembering that many of the factors that contribute to crashes don't disappear after Labor Day. Distractions, inexperience, fatigue, weather conditions, and impaired driving are risks drivers face all year long. 

Whether you're a teen driver, a parent, or someone with decades of driving experience, now is a great time to refresh your safe driving habits for the seasons ahead. 

Back-to-school means more activity on the road 

September brings a major shift in traffic patterns across Washington and Oregon. School buses return to the roads; student drop-off zones become busier, and more pedestrians, cyclists, and young drivers are commuting each day. 

Here are some important reminders about school zone road rules: 

• Slow down in school zones and watch for changing speed limits. 

• Be prepared for pedestrians crossing unexpectedly near schools and neighborhoods. 

• Leave extra space around school buses and follow local laws regarding stopped buses. 

• Give yourself a little extra travel time to reduce the temptation to rush. 

Distracted driving is more than texting 

When people think about distracted driving, texting is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But distractions come in many forms. 

For teen drivers, passengers remain one of the biggest sources of distraction. Conversations, joking around, and the natural excitement of driving with friends can pull attention away from the road. 

Other common distractions include: 

• Adjusting navigation systems 

• Changing music or podcasts 

• Eating or drinking 

• Looking for items inside the vehicle 

• Grooming while driving 

• Losing focus during familiar routes 

The safest approach is simple: when you're driving, driving should be your primary job. 

New drivers need practice in all conditions 

Many teens earn their licenses during the summer months. But summer driving doesn't prepare new drivers for every situation they'll encounter. 

As fall and winter approach, young drivers may face: 

• Driving in darkness during morning or evening commutes 

• Heavy rain and reduced visibility 

• Wet leaves and slippery roads 

• Fog 

• Snow and ice in many parts of the Pacific Northwest 

Parents can help by gradually exposing new drivers to different conditions while offering guidance and feedback. 

Consider practicing: 

• Night driving 

• Highway driving 

• Wet-weather driving 

• Defensive driving techniques 

• Emergency braking and following-distance awareness 

The more experience a driver gains in controlled situations, the more confidence they'll develop when conditions become challenging. 

Talk openly about impairment and fatigue 

Alcohol and drug impairment remain serious concerns for drivers of all ages. But impairment isn't the only risk that affects judgment and reaction time. 

Fatigue can impair driving abilities in ways that closely resemble alcohol impairment. Busy school schedules, sports, extracurricular activities, work, and social commitments can all contribute to drowsy driving. 

Make sure young drivers understand that there is never a good reason to drive when they are: 

• Impaired by alcohol or drugs 

• Overly tired 

• Sick or experiencing medication side effects 

• Emotionally distressed or distracted 

Consider establishing a family agreement that allows teens to call for a ride any time without fear of immediate punishment or judgment. 

The goal is always to make the safest choice. 

Safe driving is a year-round responsibility 

The 100 Deadliest Days may be ending, but the habits that prevent crashes are important every day of the year. 

Wear your seatbelt. Eliminate distractions. Stay alert. Drive sober. Give yourself enough time to reach your destination safely. 

And as students head back to school and drivers prepare for changing weather conditions, remember that a few thoughtful choices behind the wheel can help protect you, your passengers, and everyone sharing the road.