How Effective Are Graduated Licenses?
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that graduated license systems may not be as effective as once thought. The study found that the graduated license system does have the intended effect of reducing car accident fatalities among 16-year-olds. However, states with graduated licenses systems have an increase in car accident fatalities among 18-year-olds.
It appears that the problems associated with 16-year-old drivers may come more from inexperience than age. It is too early to tell whether states will take any actions based on this study, but at least some experts are encouraging states to consider graduated licenses for any new driver, regardless of age, or at least for any driver under age 21.
Our personal injury attorneys in PA will continue to watch for reaction to this study and hope that the information can be used to help protect older novice drivers as well as traditional novice drivers.
