Solutions offered for teen driving

Drivers between the ages of 15-19 lead in the number of fatalities in the state, according to the latest statistics available from the Alabama Department of Public Safety (ADPS).
   
But a spokesperson with the department said those numbers might be reduced if parents would make sure their children are more experienced drivers before they hit the road unsupervised, along with employing discretion about when they can drive and under what conditions. A graduated driver licensing system that has already proven successful in other states is also being eyed in Alabama.
   
“The biggest problem is the lack of experience some of them have when they get their driver’s license,” said Cpl. Will Rogers with the ADPS Birmingham office.
   
Statistics provided by the department would seem to support Rogers’ conclusion, with the highest driver fatalities among those under 35.
   
In 1998, the latest year figures were available, 179 drivers ages 15-19 were killed on Alabama roads — the highest age group in driver fatalities. That statistic is only slightly better among the second highest group, 20-24, with 178 driver fatalities, followed by 169 driver fatalities among those ages 30-34.
   
While teenagers generally have quick reflexes, Rogers said their inexperience can cause problems. A stalled car in front of them on the interstate is a scenario illustrating why younger drivers often have accidents, with the driver slamming on his brakes rather than moving into another lane if it is clear.
   
Rogers said a graduated driver licensing system strives to make sure new drivers are prepared to drive alone.
   
The graduated driver licensing system has been considered by the Alabama Legislature but not acted on. Twenty-four states have adopted the three-level program.
   
The first step is a learner’s permit, followed by an intermediate license and full license. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the three stages of the graduated driver licensing system are designed to introduce driving privileges and rules to beginning drivers.
   
Admitting it would be unpopular, Rogers said another solution is for parents to make sure their children are prepared to drive on their own, even if it means waiting until they are older than 16.
   
“Just because a young person has his driver’s license, doesn’t mean he has to have a car,” Rogers said.
   
Another solution cited by Rogers is for parents to make and enforce rules. “I think parents can restrict use of the vehicle,” he said.
   
Rogers also suggested parents place a restriction on how many people can be in the car at one time, saying “that seems to be a big problem.”