September 12, 2002 at 08:30:21
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Did you know that motor vehicle crashes are the LEADING CAUSE OF DEATH among teenagers-far surpassing death from drugs, gun-related violence or suicide. A large number of our young drivers-our children, grandchildren, friends, etc. are being killed and injured due to motor vehicle accidents. The new GRADUATED DRIVER LICENSING (GDL) system is a vital step toward safer highways for all motorists by building safeguards for teens in the state's licensing process. The new licensing program, which takes effect September 1, 2003, targets the high rate of crashes and fatalities among teenagers by requiring 16 and 17 year old drivers to accumulate driving experience in LOW-risk settings. Highlights of the new Graduated Licensing Law: Learner's Permit: * 6 month holding period before scheduling a road test for junior license * Supervising driver MUST be 21 years old * All occupants must wear seatbelts * Front-seat occupant must be supervising driver * Only two passengers under 21 who are not immediate family members can ride, unless accompanied by parent, guardian or driver's education teacher * 20 hours of behind-the-wheel experience required to get junior license * Suspension/revocation for serious traffic violations (3 points or more) |