ABC and SADD Warn about the Deadliest Season for Young People

Los Angeles – Today, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, in partnership with the California SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), issued a statewide call to action in combating the deadliest season for young people — the summer months. Known as the “100 deadliest days,” the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the season when more young people lose their lives in car crashes and other destructive decisions.

In 2018, 2476 people between the ages of 13-19 lost their lives on the nation’s roadways, and thousands more were injured.  While young drivers make up 5.3% of all drivers, they represent a large percentage of all fatal crashes. The leading causes of crashes continue to be distracted driving, impaired driving, and reckless behavior. Combine these problems, with inexperience, and it is clear why car crashes continue to be the leading cause of death and injury for young people.

“Because of recent events, we’re reminded of the importance of public health, and public health includes traffic safety,” says Lynne Brown, California State Manager. “Our message is buckle up, every time. Drive sober. If you feel different, you drive different. Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel. Everyone’s actions impact all roadway users, every driver, passenger, and pedestrian.”

SADD encourages teens to take the lead in sharing this message. We have created a complete campaign of activities, volunteer opportunities, prizes, and more to raise awareness and empower young people, even in this time of social distancing. Parents can be involved too.

About SADD

Since 1981, SADD, the nation’s premier youth health & safety organization has worked to empower teens, engage parents, mobilize communities, and change lives around the issues of traffic safety, substance abuse, and personal health and safety. SADD equips students with the resources they need to advocate for change on their campuses and in their communities. Visit  SADD’s website to learn more.

The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) is administering a grant that provides resources to SADD for these summer educational activities. The funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Contact

Additional information may be obtained by contacting:

Public Information Office
3927 Lennane Drive, Suite 100
Sacramento, CA 95834
Email: pio@abc.ca.gov
Phone: (916) 419-2525

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