What contributes to a decrease in crash risk for teen drivers?

The graduated driver's license (GDL) program significantly contributes to decreasing crash risk for teen drivers by implementing a structured approach to driver education and experience. This system typically involves several stages that restrict certain driving privileges until the driver has demonstrated sufficient skill and maturity behind the wheel.

In the initial phase, teens often face restrictions such as limited night driving and a ban on multiple teenage passengers. These measures are designed to lower the risk associated with distractions and inexperience that commonly affect this age group. Additionally, the GDL program usually mandates supervised driving hours, providing novice drivers the opportunity to gain experience under the guidance of a more experienced driver. This graduated approach not only helps young drivers build confidence but also fosters safer driving habits as they graduate to full driving privileges based on their demonstrated competency.

In contrast, using cell phones or wearing headphones while driving introduces significant distractions that can lead to dangerous situations. Driving with teen passengers has also been shown to increase crash risk due to the potential for distraction among peers. Thus, the structured training and exposure in GDL programs play a crucial role in reducing the likelihood of crashes among teenage drivers.