Young drivers are getting licensed each day to drive on our roadways.
Unfortunately, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teens nationwide.
According to the data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), gathered in 2022, nearly six young drivers between 15 and 20 years old were killed in car crashes every day. That adds up to more than 2,000 teenagers lost each year, in addition to many more who are seriously injured in crashes.
Although, teen crash deaths have declined dramatically in the last few decades, motor vehicle crashes are still the leading cause of death for female teens and one of the leading causes for male teens.
The National Safety Council’s ‘Drive It Home program’ outlines several recommendations for parents.
· Practice driving with your teen. It is the best way to build experience.
· Sign a new driver deal before your teen drives. The parent-teen agreement will help you both get on the same page about driving risks and responsibilities.
· Discuss clearly which behaviors are acceptable behind the wheel and which are not
Young drivers also need to be aware of the special rules that apply to their driving privileges in New Jersey.
In New Jersey, teens holding a probationary license under New Jersey’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Law:
· May not drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m.
· Can’t use a cell phone, handheld video game or hand-held wireless electronic devices.
· Must ensure that ALL passengers wear seatbelts.
Teens who violate these rules face a fine of $100. In addition, those holding a probationary license may not plea bargain any point-carrying offense.
New Jersey law also restricts the number of passengers a young driver may have in their car. Only one passenger (including siblings) may be in a car unless a parent or guardian is in the car, or a driver who is 21 years old or older and has been driving at least three years is in the car.
All permit or probationary drivers under 21 must also display a reflective red decal on the front and rear license plate. The stickers assist law enforcement and make it easier for officers to identify vehicles with teen drivers. Failure to use the sticker can mean a fine up to $100.
Cooper Levenson is a full-service law firm established in 1957. Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570.
