Senate Passes Bill Aimed at Keeping Young Drivers Safe and Alert

The New York State Senate passed legislation (S.8124), sponsored by Senator Andrew Lanza (R-I, Staten Island), that would limit the number of non-family member passengers under the age of twenty-one who can ride in a car when the driver holds a class DJ or class MJ learners permit or license. According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for persons ages 15 to 20. In fact, more than 7,000 teens die annually in traffic crashes. Statistics show teen drivers, mile to mile, are in three times as many fatal crashes as all other drivers. "Our teens are at risk every time they get behind the wheel as evidenced by the troubling fact that motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers," said Senator Andrew Lanza. "This bill will create awareness, and ensure that New York State implements the best possible safety and supervision measures so that our teen drivers keep themselves and others safe."