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Study reveals top driving distractions for teens during the summer

Posted at 8:53 AM, Jun 01, 2016
and last updated 2016-06-01 08:53:39-04

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A new study released by AAA reveals the top driving distractions for teens during the “100 Deadliest Days.”

That period of time begins during the summer months when Memorial day kicks off.  It’s coined the “100 Deadliest Days” because teen crash deaths historically climb.

The study says that an average of 1,022 people die every year from crashes involving teen drivers.  The average number of deaths from crashes involving teen drivers ages 16-19 increased 16 percent per day, compared to any other day of the year. This year’s report is from a comprehensive eight year research program focused on teen and distracted driving.

According to the study, talking or attending to other passengers in the vehicle is the top reason for incident, causing about 15 percent of crashes.  The second at 12 percent is talking, texting, or using a cell phone.  Lastly, 11 percent of crashes are caused by looking at something inside the vehicle.

The study also says that texting and social media use while behind the wheel are actually on the rise among teens.  This is a topic that’s been targeted over the last couple of years, but so far not much progress has been made.

For a full look at the study you can visit the AAA website, here.