As many as 2000 lives could be saved annually if restrictions were placed on the driver licenses of teenagers. A new study released by the National Safety Council, an independent research agency formed by Congress, suggests that nationwide adoption of a graduated driver licensing (GDL) system would significantly reduce traffic fatalities. Traffic fatalities are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States.
GDL laws have been on the book in California since 1998. Teenagers applying for a California drivers license must follow certain rules and guidelines in order to receive a provisional drivers license, and then finally a full-privilege drivers license. It is estimated that California GDL laws save hundreds of lives every year. According to the new study, if California were to adopt the more rigorous proposed GDL requirements, an additional 133 lives could be saved annually.
The seven components of the proposed standard requirements for GDL are…
- Minimum age 16 for a learner’s permit
- Six months before unsupervised driving
- Minimum 30 hours supervised driving during learner’s stage
- Intermediate licensing at 16½ minimum
- Intermediate nighttime driving restriction beginning no later than 10 p.m.
- No more than one non-family passenger for intermediate license holders
- Minimum age 17 for a full license.
See the current California GDL guidelines.
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker has worked with too many clients who have experienced the misfortune of losing loved ones in car accidents. Any effort to reduce the number of traffic fatalities in any context is a positive effort. If you or anyone you love has been injured in an auto accident, contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker today at (800) 333-0000. With over 30 years of experience, we can help you recover the compensation you need.
