National Safety Council Supports Senate Introduction of the STANDUP Act

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May 04, 2010, 12:13 ET

Legislation to Save Teen Driver Lives

ITASCA, Ill., May 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Safety Council today announced its support of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand's (D-NY) introduction of the STANDUP (Safe Teen and Novice Driver Uniform Protection) Act in the Senate. The legislation encourages states to adopt comprehensive Graduated Driver Licensing laws to save teen lives on the nation's roadways. Motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for teens. NSC estimates 6,428 motor vehicle fatalities involved young drivers in 2008.

GDL is a research-based licensing system that gives young drivers gradual exposure to driving challenges, such as passengers and nighttime driving. It allows drivers to build up experience and skills in lower-risk conditions. GDL is proven to be the most effective way to reduce teen driving crashes, injuries and fatalities.

The STANDUP Act establishes minimum federal requirements for state GDL laws. It also urges all states to adopt GDL laws that meet those minimum requirements within three years. Components of the STANDUP Act include:

Minimum age of 16 for gaining a learner's permit
Ban on cell phone use for intermediate license holders
One-limit teen passenger restriction for intermediate license holders
Nighttime driving restriction for intermediate license holders
Minimum age of 18 for full licensure

Companion legislation was introduced in the House in April 2009 by Reps. Tim Bishop (D-NY) and Mike Castle (R-DE).

"We strongly encourage the Senate to pass the STANDUP Act. Federal legislation that urges states to adopt strong GDL laws protects young drivers, their passengers and those who share the road with them," said Janet Froetscher, NSC president and CEO. "GDL successfully protects teens – states with strong GDL laws reduce teen driver crashes by 20 to 40 percent. I ask individuals to contact their Senators and express support for the STANDUP Act to help reduce crashes and save lives."

For more information on teen driving, visit teendriver.nsc.org.

The National Safety Council (www.nsc.org) saves lives by preventing injuries and deaths at work, in homes and communities, and on the roads through leadership, research, education and advocacy.

SOURCE National Safety Council