Washington State Patrol: The '100 deadliest days for teen drivers'

SEATTLE -- Alarming statistics show the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day are the deadliest days for teenage drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, during those deadliest days in 2012, nearly 1,000 people died in car crashes involving teenagers.

Brandi Gleason knows what it's like to lose a loved one. Nearly five years ago, a drunken driver hit and killed her brother, Nick Hodgins. Nick was just days away from graduating high school.

"We, unfortunately, had a graduation party planned for him just like any parent and we had his funeral the day of his graduation party. It was a really tough time of year when it should be a really joyful time of year," Gleason said.

Troopers say more teenagers are involved in car crashes this time of year because they are spending less time in the books and more time behind the wheel.

Washington State Patrol trooper Chris Webb said, "It’s nice (weather-wise). They’re with their friends more. They maybe have some more free time so that all includes driving more so they’re probably getting more miles in."

Troopers say the single, best thing you can do to protect yourself is to wear your seat belt.