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Safety Focus

100 Deadliest Days

photo of a Teen Driver behind the wheel of a driver education car

The "100 Deadliest Days" in Oregon refers to the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, a time when fatal car crashes involving teen drivers significantly increase. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nationwide more than 14,000 people died in teen-driving related summertime crashes from 2010 to 2021. Summer is here and when teens are out of school, they are more likely to be driving, which is why 100 days of summer can be the deadliest days, especially for teen drivers. However, the risk can be reduced by avoiding the top factors that contribute to teen driving crashes. You can begin by talking to your teen about avoiding unnecessary risks while driving: 

Factors Contributing to the "100 Deadliest Days"

  • Speeding is the leading cause of crashes involving teen drivers. Speeding also greatly reduces reaction time and increases the risk. It can also reduce your peripheral vision field, making it more likely you won’t see objects or people about to enter the roadway. 
  • Impairment or “buzzed” driving can happen very quickly when drinking alcohol or taking drugs (even “over the counter” medicine). 
  • Distractions are deadly. In Oregon, drivers under the age of 18 are completely prohibited from using a cell phone (even hands-free) for any purpose while driving.
  • Increasing the number of passengers in a car also increases the risk of a crash. If a teen does have passengers, they can ask a friend to act as a co-pilot to lend an extra set of eyes and to remind the driver of their responsibility to help keep occupants and other road users safe.

Consider Completing a Formal Driver Education Course

Teens who complete an ODOT-approved driver education course have a lower crash rate and fewer traffic convictions compared to those who don't. The training equips drivers with better driving habits and experience, leading to safer practices on the road. They also have fewer traffic convictions and suspensions. But to achieve those results, aspiring drivers need guidance and teaching. 

Driver Education Resources for Parents and Teens

To get started, visit the Transportation Safety Office Driver Education Program Resources for Parents and Teens webpage for details on how to find a driver education provider, get information about DMV drive test waivers, and download other media and publications.

You can also visit the Oregon DMV Teen Driving webpage for resources and information.

Pedestrian Safety - Oregonians Stand Out

Image - Oregonians Stand Out Billboard showing people walking in the dark wearing reflective gear

Most pedestrian fatalities occur at dusk or at night when visibility is low. Help prevent these tragedies by following these tips:

As a driver:
• Be extra vigilant at dusk—it’s harder to see pedestrians.
• Watch for pedestrians at corners and mid-block crosswalks.
• Slow down and scan for movement in the dark.
As a pedestrian:
• Avoid dark clothing that blends into your surroundings. Wear bright colors during the day and light or reflective gear at night.
• Carry a flashlight or use a headlamp when it’s dark, rainy, foggy, or overcast.

Together, we can make Oregon’s streets safer for everyone.

Check out our pedestrian and speeding PSA: English / Spanish.