The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and its partners encourage motorists to “Survive your Drive.”

State Highway Safety Director Lauren Stewart says in a news release: “While summertime may be the best time to relax and have fun, it is NOT the time to relax while driving, especially for teens and new drivers.”

Starting Memorial Day, May 30 and running straight through Labor Day, September 5 is known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer.” It is the time of year when we see the most activity on our roads and highways. School is out, kids are working summer jobs, people are traveling to vacation destinations, and enjoying all that Maine has to offer in the summer.

“Parents have plenty to be concerned about as their teen hits the road this summer,” said Pat Moody, AAA Northern New England Director of Public Relations, in a MBHS news release. “Teens are making deadly mistakes on the road. Parents are the best line of defense to keep everyone safe behind the wheel.”

Tools to help parents prepare for the “100 Deadliest Days” of summer driving and other resources to coach teens through the learning-to drive process can be found on AAA’s website TeenDriving.AAA.com.

100 Deadliest Days (Memorial Day through Labor Day)

Of these fatalities between 2019 through 2021, six of them were teens (between the ages of 13-19). As evidenced by data in the years past, this high-density travel period is living up to the unfortunate moniker, said MBHS.

There are several things you can do to increase your chances of surviving a crash, one of the easiest is using your seatbelt.

“Seatbelts not only save lives, but prevent injuries that can cost you medical expenses, missed time at work, and time away from family events. Please always wear your seatbelt to ensure you and your family can spend time together!” says Chief Erik Baker, ofSabattus Police Department.

The Maine Bureau of Highway Safety wants to remind you to obey all traffic laws, stay alert, not drive if you are impaired by drugs or alcohol, and make sure all passengers are buckled up, including that children are properly restrained.

Stewart says, “when you are behind the wheel, Just Drive!”