New Study Reveals Why Summer Is the Most Dangerous Season to Drive in America

A new nationwide traffic safety analysis from DeMayo Law highlights the serious risks American drivers face during the summer months, revealing that June through September consistently ranks as the most dangerous stretch of the year for motor vehicle accidents and fatalities.

The report, based on the latest available data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and additional road safety studies, explores how seasonal changes, especially heat, vacation travel, and inexperience on the road, contribute to a sharp rise in crashes during the warmer months.

In 2023, 2.44 million people were injured in crashes across the U.S, a 2.5% increase from 2022. Though fatality numbers dropped slightly year-over-year, 40,901 people lost their lives in motor vehicle accidents, with over 12,000 deaths involving alcohol and nearly 11,800 tied to speeding.

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“100 Deadliest Days” Put Teen Drivers Most at Risk

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day, often dubbed the “100 Deadliest Days,” is especially perilous for teenage drivers. According to the National Road Safety Foundation, teens are 20% more likely to be involved in a fatal crash during this time than during the rest of the year.

Primary contributing factors include:

• Inexperience behind the wheel

• Distracted driving (especially smartphones)

• Intoxicated driving

• Speeding and risk-taking behavior

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Southern States Hit Hardest by Summer Fatalities

The South saw more than half of all U.S. traffic deaths in 2023, accounting for 21,514 fatalities. Study data shows this region also leads in summer crash fatalities, with 6,473 deaths occurring between June and September—corresponding with its peak heat window.

Summer fatality breakdown by region:

• South: 6,473

• West: 3,195

• Midwest: 2,901

• Northeast: 1,382

The correlation between higher temperatures and higher crash risk is clear. The South’s average summer temperatures reach 80–85°F, with some areas exceeding 100°F, putting drivers at greater risk of fatigue, dehydration, and mechanical failure.

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How Heat Physically Impacts Drivers

Extreme heat impairs driver performance by:

• Causing rapid fatigue and reduced concentration

• Increasing reaction time delays

• Raising the risk of heat-related drowsiness and fainting

Drivers without functioning air conditioning systems are especially vulnerable. Research shows that even mild dehydration can reduce focus and coordination, essential for safe driving.

In addition to driver impairment, vehicles themselves are at risk. Excessive heat can lead to tire blowouts, engine overheating, and brake issues, especially on long-distance trips.

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Tragic Toll of Hot Car Deaths

Heat-related car deaths are not limited to drivers. Children left in hot vehicles remain a devastating and ongoing danger.

Between 1998 and 2024, 1,011 children died after being left in overheated cars—an average of 37 deaths per year, according to NoHeatStroke.org.

Top states for hot car deaths:

• Texas – 147

• Florida – 113

• Georgia – 42

• North Carolina – 41

• Louisiana – 38

On a 95°F day, the temperature inside a car can reach 150°F or more within minutes—fatal for children and pets.

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Summer DUI Fatalities Spike in Heat

Alcohol is another major risk factor. The study found that drunk driving fatalities increase by 3.4% during heatwaves.

Why? Dehydration accelerates alcohol absorption, intensifying impairment even after one or two drinks. Combined with hot weather fatigue, this leads to a dangerous reduction in judgment and reaction time.

In summer 2023, the South once again ranked highest, with 1,960 alcohol-related traffic deaths. Texas led all states, followed by other Southern and Western states.

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Most Dangerous vs. Safest States for Summer DUIs

Top 5 States by Summer DUI Fatalities:

1. Texas

2. California

3. Florida

4. Arizona

5. Georgia

5 States with Lowest Summer DUI Fatalities:

1. Vermont

2. Alaska

3. Rhode Island

4. North Dakota

5. Washington D.C.

Annual DUI data mirrors these findings. Texas, California, and Florida consistently report the highest total drunk-driving deaths nationwide.

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Prevention Starts with Awareness

While all seasons present driving challenges, summer remains statistically the most lethal, driven by:

• Higher traffic volume

• Teenage drivers

• Road trips

• Extreme heat

• Alcohol use

Experts urge drivers to take precautions:

• Stay hydrated, especially on long drives

• Never drink and drive, even in small amounts

• Check vehicle maintenance (tires, brakes, fluids) before travel

• Never leave children or pets in cars, even for a moment

With greater awareness and smarter choices, the dangerous trends tied to summer driving can be reversed.