Connecticut Sets Example for Teen Driver Safety

Aug 21, 2008 5:00 AM

Teen drivers die in fatal motor vehicle crashes at a rate at three times the rate for drivers ages 35-49. Hence, motor vehicle crashes remain the number-one killer of children under the age of 18. These young novice drivers are at elevated risk on the road because they have not yet developed the judgment and driving skill that comes with experience. Most states have implemented a three-stage graduated licensing system, in which the new driver obtains initial experience in lower risk conditions, such as driving with a parent, driving with a restricted number, or no passengers, and driving only during the day. Although most states have some form of graduated licensing program, the details of each of the programs varies widely across the country. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety also provides a rating of the graduated licensing system in each state.

As of August 1st, 2008, 16- and 17-year-olds learning to drive in Connecticut will have new driving and training laws as well as tough new suspensions for violations. These new requirements include:

Instead of a paper style learner’s permit, new drivers will receive a newly designed license document which incorporates the security features in other DMV license credentials.

16- and 17-year-old teens must take a longer more comprehensive test.

Drivers under 18 must be off the road by 11:00 PM.

Parents of those obtaining a learner’s permit must attend two hours of instruction on teen-driving laws before their teen takes his or her driving test.

On-road training is doubled from 20 to 40 hours.

Increased penalty for teen drivers’ and their passengers not wearing seat belts.

Increased suspension periods for 16- and 17-year-olds for reckless driving and vehicle racing.

60-day license suspension for speeding and 30-day suspension for use of cell phone while driving.

Teens that violate the provisions of the graduated license rules will lose their privileges for 30 days.

Suspension of license for at least one year upon referral to the DMV by the arresting officer for operating under the influence. Will be required to complete a mandatory Substance Abuse Training Program (SATP).

During the first six months of licensure, 16- and 17-year-old drivers can not have any passengers in the vehicle except for a licensed driving instructor, a parent or legal guardian, or a licensed person providing instruction who is at least 20 years old and whose license has not been suspended in the previous four years prior to training. During months seven through 12 of licensure, the only passengers allowed in the vehicle are members of the driver’s immediate family.

A full description of the new laws and other information can be found on the Connecticut DMV Web site.

If you are a parent of a soon-to-be teen driver, you might want to consider the benefits of having this type of graduated program. If you live in a state in which there are not strict enough guidelines, you may want to consider restricting teen driving privileges yourself in the interest of their safety and your own peace of mind. Each of the new restrictions in Connecticut is intended to address particularly risky behaviors and driving conditions that have been linked to teen driver crashes and fatalities. Additional information on each can be found at iihs.org.

Also, visit our Kids and Car Safety special section.

-- Michelle Tsai

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