Wellness/Prevention: Keep Young Drivers Safe

In May 2010, New Jersey implemented Kyleigh’s Law, requiring all 16-20 year old drivers with a permit or intermediate license to display a reflective decal on the front and back license plates of vehicles they are operating. The decal is intended to help police officers enforce laws specific to younger drivers such as those related to night time driving and the number of permitted passengers. Since going into effect, Kyleigh’s Law has decreased car accidents among 16-20 year old intermediate license holders by 9%. Tips for keeping your young driver safe: “[Start] them out in low-risk conditions. Keep the number of passengers to no more than one, limit nighttime driving to before 10 pm, always prohibit cell phone use while driving, and insist on seat belts for every occupant on every drive.”
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, October 2012