Unfortunately, car crashes are the #1 cause of death among teenagers in our country.  Also, 1 out of 3 teens has a car accident their first year of driving.  What can we do to help our teens stay safe on the road?  Some people think that graduated driver licensing (GDL) is the answer.

With GDL, teens are eased into driving through three stages.  First, is a period with a supervised learner’s permit.  Next, an intermediate license is issued in which teens can drive in certain situations.  And finally, a full privilege license is issued.  Under requirements for GDL, many states don’t allow teen driving at night and with more than one passenger.

Putting a GDL program in place that is comprehensive will save people’s lives.  According to a 2007 comprehensive look at GDL by AAA, states with GDL programs that were substantive had a 38% reduction in crashes that were fatal involving teens.  Also, according to an IIHS study in 2006, an implemented GDL system in California in 1998 resulted in a reduction of 23% in crashes involving 16 yr olds.

Parents are fearful of their teen’s safety on the road.  To protect them, they are implementing strict rules, purchasing an auto warranty, and enforcing driver training.  However, the #1 thing that will help our teens on the road is GDL