Ohio's Graduated Licensing Program Reduces Fatal Teen Accidents
In Ohio, we are fortunate to have in place a graduated licensing program for inexperienced teenage drivers. A study sponsored by the American Medical Association found that the number of teenage fatalities due to vehicle accidents decreased from 107 in 2007 to 73 in 2010.

November 19, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- In Ohio, we are fortunate to have in place a graduated licensing program for inexperienced teenage drivers. A graduated licensing program means that teenagers must complete certain driving pre-requisites before obtaining their driver's license and are restricted to driving during certain hours of the day until the age of 18.

A study sponsored by the American Medical Association found that the number of teenage fatalities due to vehicle accidents decreased from 107 in 2007 to 73 in 2010. The study focused on drivers between the ages of 16 and 20. While many factors may have played a role, the graduated licensing program has helped to reduce the number of fatal car accidents suffered by teens.

Ohio's graduated licensing program consists of two main requirements:
- New drivers must attain 50 hours of supervised driving before age 16
- Until the driver reaches the age of 18, the driver is prohibited from driving between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. unless under the supervision of a licensed adult or driving to and from work or school

The requirements of the Ohio graduated licensing program are intended to help teenage drivers become responsible, competent and safe drivers. Young drivers have always suffered from a higher rate of accidents than those in other age groups. From drinking and driving to distracted driving behaviors such as text messaging while driving, teens often lack the decision-making ability to be safe drivers. Inexperienced drivers may panic behind the wheel, which can lead to rollovers. The graduated licensing program seeks to give young drivers the tools they need to protect themselves, their passengers and their fellow motorists.

Lawmakers chose to institute a graduated licensing program to make the roads safer for everyone, including teen drivers. While the program is an excellent start, parents and guardians still play a crucial role in helping teens master good driving habits. By paying close attention and working with kids to make them confident and prudent behind the wheel, adults can protect the teen drivers in their lives, as well as the community as a whole.

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