Municipal Court Promotes Teen Driver Safety

Published on May 27, 2025

SAN ANTONIO (May 27, 2025) – As part of its year-round Drive SAfely SAinitiative, the San Antonio Municipal Court is raising awareness about the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers, the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when fatal car crashes involving teens significantly increase.

“With summer approaching, it’s important we take steps to protect our young drivers,” said Presiding Judge Carla Obledo. “By talking with our teens and raising awareness, we can help ensure safer roads for everyone. Summer should be about making memories, not mourning tragedies.”

Last summer, the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) issued more than 15,000 citations to drivers for violations such as speeding, failure to wear seat belts, and cell phone use. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this period is a time of increased risk for teens due to factors like inexperience, increased driving time, and potential for distractions and risk-taking behaviors.

To help combat this trend, the Court will distribute driver safety materials throughout the summer to court visitors, and the City will share safety tips on its social media channels. Parents can download the Parent-Teen Driver Safety First Agreement from the Court’s website.

The Court offers the following tips for safe teen driving:

• Limit Passengers: Talking with friends in the car is a major distraction. Passengers under 21 significantly increase the risk of a crash.
• Obey Speed Limits: Teens monitored by parents are less likely to speed. Be consistent in your expectations and your own behavior.
• Always Buckle Up: Seat belts save lives—every trip, every time, for all passengers.
• Eliminate Distractions: Avoid texting, eating, grooming, or adjusting music while driving. Plan before hitting the road.
• Restrict Night Driving: Limited visibility, fatigue, and inexperience make nighttime driving more dangerous for teens.
• Never Drive Impaired: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal and deadly. Have a plan to get home safely.

The Court encourages the entire San Antonio community to promote responsible driving habits and help keep young drivers safe. For more information and educational tools, visit SA.gov/Court.