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'100 Deadliest Days' for teen drivers: Keep your kids safe on the roadways

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is considered the deadliest for teen drivers.

TAMPA, Fla. — The time between Memorial Day and Labor Day are usually marked by summer vacations, but they're also considered by some the "100 Deadliest Days" for teen drivers.

AAA Spokesperson Mark Jenkins says it starts the day after Memorial Day.

"This is really a time when students are out of school and they're joyriding around with their friends and, unfortunately, bad things happen," AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins said.

It's during this time period an average of 700 people die each year across the country in crashes involving teen drivers. It comes out to an average of about seven per day.

The top factors are speeding, drinking and distractions.

"It can be a deadly mix, you've got inexperience combined with cell phone use, drugs, alcohol, even other passengers that can be very distracting," Jenkins said.

There are several apps parents can download to track their teens' driving habits like True Motion and LifeSaver. Both block phone use while driving. They also even notify parents of speed and location.

While these apps are a great tool, Jenkins says parents should think about their own driving habits.

"Set a great example for your kids when you're driving. Don't be using your cell phone while behind the wheel," Jenkins said. "Don't be putting on makeup or any other distractions. Just try to focus on driving because you're kids are always watching."

AAA has several resources for teens and parents on its website.

Related: Florida leads country in bicycle deaths, study finds

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