Jul 09, 2025

The 100 Deadliest Days of Summer in California: Are You Prepared?

A packed vehicle navigates a busy highway, embodying adventure amidst serene mountain backdrops.

Summer in California means golden sunsets, road trips up the coast, and endless outdoor adventures. From the beaches of San Diego to the redwoods of Northern California, the Golden State is a magnet for tourists and locals alike, all eager to soak up the season’s magic.

But behind the sunshine and surfboards, summer also brings a sobering reality: the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is known as the “100 Deadliest Days of Summer,” when the risk of injury and fatal accidents spikes dramatically.

Are you ready for “100 Deadliest Days?” This guide will help you stay vigilant and understand your rights if you are injured this summer.

Why Injuries Spike in California During the “100 Deadliest Days”

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, California experiences a significant rise in traffic accidents and injuries, especially involving teen drivers. This trend is well-documented: according to AAA and the Auto Club of Southern California, over 30% of deaths in crashes involving teen drivers occur during the summer months known as the “100 Deadliest Days.”

In California alone, 990 people died in teen-involved crashes from 2019 to 2023, with about 30% of those fatalities happening during this high-risk period. Nationally, an average of eight people are killed per day in teen-involved crashes during the summer, compared to seven per day during the rest of the year. California is no exception to this dangerous seasonal pattern.

A few key causes and California-specific risks include the following:

Teen Drivers and Increased Travel: With school out, inexperienced teen drivers hit the road in greater numbers, often with friends and less supervision. Many unlicensed student drivers also use their summer break to learn the rules of the road and rack up the required hours. Increased travel (i.e., summer vacations, holiday weekends, and road trips) means more vehicles on the road at all hours, congested highways, and unfamiliar routes, all adding layers of risk. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), teen drivers are involved in a disproportionate number of fatal crashes during summer.
Alcohol and Impairment: Summer gatherings often involve alcohol and other substances, leading to a rise in DUI incidents. In 2022, 1,479 people were killed in alcohol-involved crashes in California—nearly a third of all traffic deaths—and this trend remains a top concern, as reported by the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and SafeTREC’s 2024 report. These agencies confirm that alcohol-impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of fatal crashes.
Distracted Driving: Smartphone use and other distractions contribute to accidents. In 2022, 148 people were killed in distracted driving crashes in California, with mobile devices remaining the biggest distraction, according to OTS and SafeTREC’s 2024 distracted driving report.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving: With more open roads and vacationing drivers, some are tempted to speed or drive aggressively. In 2023, unsafe speed contributed to 113,697 crashes, resulting in 546 fatalities and 68,598 injuries statewide.
Increased Traffic Volume: More tourists and leisure travelers mean more vehicles on the road, congested highways, and unfamiliar routes — all of which add layers of risk. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) and California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) regularly issue public safety reminders about increased traffic during summer holidays.
Seasonal Construction: Summer is prime time for road work, leading to unexpected detours, slower traffic, and increased accident risk. The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) and CHP both provide updates and safety tips for navigating construction zones.
Hot Weather Hazards: High temperatures can cause tire blowouts, engine overheating, and driver fatigue. The CHP’s summer safety tips (2024) highlight the dangers of extreme heat and how to keep vehicles and passengers safe.
More Pedestrian Activity: Summer sees more people walking, biking, and enjoying outdoor events, especially in tourist-heavy areas. The California OTS reports that pedestrians remain a significant portion of traffic fatalities, with 1,158 pedestrian deaths in 2022, and continued concern for summer months.
Increased Water-Related Activities: Swimming, boating, and water sports surge in summer, leading to more drownings and water-related injuries. The 2024 California Water Safety Summit highlighted ongoing efforts to reduce drowning and promote aquatic safety, with a focus on summer risks and community education.
Recreational Vehicle Incidents: ATVs, dirt bikes, jet skis, and other recreational vehicles become popular during summer. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) regularly issues safety reminders, and recent news reports, such as the March 2025 fatal crash involving Can-Am vehicles in Imperial County, prove the ongoing risks during high-activity seasons.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Pool decks, resorts, and public spaces become crowded and slippery during the summer. The California Department of Public Health monitors injury trends and notes that falls are a leading cause of injury-related emergency visits and hospitalizations, especially among children and seniors.

Protecting Yourself and Others: Practical Safety Tips for the “100 Deadliest Days”

While understanding the risks of the “100 Deadliest Days” in California is important, taking proactive steps to prevent accidents and injuries can make all the difference for you and your family. Here are practical, actionable tips to help keep you, your family, and others safe on the road and beyond:

Routine Vehicle Maintenance: Before embarking on summer road trips, ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Regular maintenance checks, including oil changes, brake inspections, and topping off fluids, can help prevent breakdowns and accidents.
Check Your Tires: Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for safe driving. Underinflated or overinflated tires can lead to blowouts and loss of control. Use a tire gauge to check the pressure at least once a month and before long trips. Also, inspect your tread for wear.
Inspect Your Cooling System: Hot weather puts extra strain on your car’s cooling system. Ensure your coolant is at the correct level to prevent overheating, which can lead to sudden breakdowns and hazardous roadside situations.
Clean Your Vehicle: Dirt and grime can hide damage and affect visibility. Regularly wash your car, including the underbody, to spot potential issues and keep windows, mirrors, and headlights clear.

Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road. Put away your phone, limit loud music, and ask passengers to help you stay alert.
Always Wear Your Seatbelt: Seatbelts reduce the risk of death and serious injury by about half. Ensure that everyone in the vehicle is buckled up before you begin driving.
Never Drive Impaired: Alcohol, drugs, and even some medications can impair your ability to drive safely. Plan ahead for a sober and safe trip.
Get Enough Rest: Drowsy driving is a major cause of accidents. Get plenty of sleep before long drives, and take regular breaks to stay alert.
Drive Defensively: Be aware of other drivers, anticipate potential hazards, and maintain a safe following distance to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Consider taking a defensive driving course to refresh your skills.
Know Your Route: Plan your trip ahead of time, check for road closures or construction, and keep your phone charged in case you need to call for help.

Stay Visible: If you’re walking at night or in busy areas, wear bright or reflective clothing and use crosswalks whenever possible.
Supervise Children Near Water: Always supervise children around pools and lakes, and ensure proper barriers are in place. Teach kids basic water safety skills as summer starts.
Watch for Heat-Related Illnesses: Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade. Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
Pack an Emergency Kit: Include water, snacks, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and basic tools in your vehicle.

What to Do If You’re Injured During the “100 Deadliest Days”

If you or a loved one is involved in a car accident (or suffers another injury like a slip or fall) in California this summer, your actions in the moments and days after the incident can make all the difference:

Check for Injuries: First, check yourself and others for injuries. Even if you feel “okay,” some injuries may not be immediately obvious. Take special care if your teenager is involved in the accident. Since accidents during the “100 Deadliest Days” involve teens more than usual, both children and teens may be more susceptible to the effects of adrenaline. They will likely struggle to communicate their symptoms accurately. Be sure to help them understand the difference between “sore” and a serious injury.
Call 911: Emergency responders can provide medical care and create an official accident report for car accidents, which is crucial for any legal claim.
Move to Safety: If possible, move to a safe and stable location or shelter while waiting for help to arrive. In the event of a car accident, try to move your vehicle safely out of traffic. Get to a shady spot out of the sun and drink water to avoid dehydration on top of the stress and injuries you’re already dealing with.
Document the Scene and Gather Evidence: Take photos (or, better yet, a detailed video) of the scene, collect witness contact information, and document any damage to vehicles or property. Retain any other items that may have been damaged — clothing, shoes, and other personal items can all be used as evidence.
Exchange Information: Obtain the other driver’s contact information, insurance details, and license plate number. If you have been injured on someone’s property, tell the property owner, manager, or lifeguard what happened and ask for a written report. This creates a record that can’t be ignored.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, see a doctor to rule out hidden injuries. Document your recovery and follow all medical advice.
Stay Off Social Media: Avoid posting about your accident, as insurance companies may use your posts against you.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer: The sooner you get legal guidance, the better your chances of protecting your rights and recovering fair compensation.
Decline quick settlements from the insurance company: Insurance companies will usually offer quick settlements to individuals injured in vehicle accidents. These are designed to cap the insurance company’s liability, and are often offered well before the full extent of your injuries and damages may be known. It’s a sad reality, but for insurance companies, the bottom line comes before your well-being. If you are offered a quick settlement, politely decline.

Because You Deserve What’s Right, Contact Sam & Ash Injury Law

Navigating a personal injury claim in California can be complex, especially during the high-risk summer months. Sam & Ash Injury Law has a proven track record of helping clients recover life-changing results.

We understand California’s laws, such as the “pure comparative negligence” rule, which means your own negligence could reduce your compensation by a percentage, but won’t completely bar recovery. So, whether you’re not responsible at all or even if you’re more than half responsible, it’s essential to have expert legal representation either way.

We handle every detail, from preserving evidence to negotiating with insurance companies so that you can focus on healing. Our team is dedicated to fighting for what’s right and getting you the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

If you or a loved one is injured during the “100 Deadliest Days,” don’t face the aftermath alone. Sam & Ash Injury Law is here to help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.