Graduated Licensing Goes to Battle Against the No.1 Killer of Teens

When Illinois legislators passed the Graduated Licensing law last summer, they did their part in the battle against the No. 1 killer of teens. The law became effective Jan. 1, and it's time for parents and others to help in reducing the staggering number of roadway crashes involving teens, says a news release issued by the Country Companies insurance group.

"Too many teen-agers' lives are cut short in crashes," says Jim Williams, a safety specialist with the group. "With this new law -- along with help from parents and all other drivers -- we have a chance to help teens develop better driving habits so they can live longer.

Teens account for 15 percent of the deaths resulting from crashes, yet they represent only 6 percent of the driving public, the company says. In 1995, 238 teen-agers were killed in Illinois auto accidents.

"Our claim files speak volumes about tragedies involving teen-driver crashes," says Joe Painter, Country Companies director of claims. "If teens and parents could see the number of files we have on these accidents, especially those where the crash resulted in the death or serious injury of a young life, they would understand the importance of this new law."

Teen-agers insured by Country Companies are two and a half times more likely to be involved in an accident where they are at fault than are adults insured by the insurance group. And, the average cost of a crash involving a teen driver is $1,400 greater than the average cost of an accident involving an adult driver, according to a survey the group conducted.

Under the new Illinois Graduated Licensing system, teen-agers must prove they have the experience and responsibility needed to gain a full driver's license. They must practice driving, follow traffic laws to maintain a clean driving record, adhere to a curfew and avoid drinking and driving. "Teens can still get a driver's license at age 16, they just need to go though a little more training than has been required," says Williams.

The Graduated Licensing system also places the parents or guardians of teens in an especially important role. They must verify in writing to the Secretary of State's Office that their teens have logged at least 25 hours of behind-the-wheel practice, and most likely will be the ones supervising that practice.

"Parents need to take this role very seriously," says Williams. "Parents should look for different driving opportunities so their teen-ager can become exposed to nearly every driving condition possible, including in parking lots, on highways, when it's raining and at night."

While this new licensing system primarily affects teen-agers and parents, all drivers play a role in the driving habits teens learn. "We should all strive to be a good example," says Williams. "If you obey driving laws, use caution, wear your seat belt and observe speed limits, those actions just might rub off on a young passenger or a teen-ager sharing the road with you."

As part of its efforts to reduce teen accidents, Country Companies' Auto Skid Demonstration, conducted at various high schools throughout the year, teaches students about the distance needed to bring a moving car to a stop. And, a videotape, "Drive Right from the Start," helps teens and parents work together to develop good driving habits. The videotape, with accompanying brochures and driving logs, is available on loan from any Country Companies agent.

Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers

• Wear your seat belt, obey traffic laws, don't drink and drive, and be courteous to other drivers when you're driving.
• Be aware of your teens' skill level. Don't force them to drive in traffic or other situations if they don't seem ready. Make sure some practice session take place on gravel, in parking lots, on a busy highway, and in rain or snow.
• Be patient, remain calm. Refrain from raising your voice or grabbing the wheel.
• When your teen gets a driver's license, set rules about where they can drive and who is allowed in the car.
• Stress that the teen must stay focused while driving, and not fidget with the radio or turn around to talk with a friend.
• Find a safe, reliable car.