|
In 1997, the first full year of its GDL system, Florida experienced a 9% reduction in fatal and injury crashes for 15-17 year-olds, compared with 1995. (IIHS, 1999)
Researchers examined GDL systems implemented in 1997 in Michigan and North Carolina, which were considered among the country's most comprehensive programs. Comparing 1999 with 1996 data, crashes involving 16-year-old drivers decreased by 25% in Michigan and 27% in North Carolina. (Journal of the American Medical Association, 2001)
In California, the alcohol-related crash rate of 16-year-olds dropped 16 percent in the first year after the GDL law took effect and 13 percent in the second year when compared with the crash rate of 16-year-olds before the law was in place. (Automobile Club of Southern California, 2002)
In California, teenage passenger deaths and injuries resulting from crashes involving 16-year-old drivers declined by 40 percent statewide from 1998 through 2000, the first three years of the program. In addition, the number of at-fault collisions involving 16-year-old drivers decreased by 24 percent. (Automobile Club of Southern California, 2001)
Oregon's GDL system was particularly effective with male teen drivers. Those who completed the GDL system experienced 16% fewer crashes during their first year of driving compared to those who had not received their license under the GDL system. (NHTSA, 1998)
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University and the IIHS have found that passenger restrictions for young drivers could save hundreds of lives each year. If 100% of teen drivers drove by themselves, rather than riding with other young drivers, 275 lives could be saved each year. (IIHS, 1999)
A 2001 Harris Poll shows nearly unanimous support (95%) for at least 30 to 50 hours of practice driving with an adult and an equally large majority (92%) responding in favor of a six month holding period. In addition, a three-to-one majority (74% to 23%) supports limiting the number of teen passengers in the car with a teen driver and supervised driving during high-risk periods, such as nighttime.
Learn about Tennessee’s graduated driving license for teens
AP Story: Graduated Licenses Work, But Why?
|
