Q: In rural areas and farming communities, are strict GDL limits workable since driving is a necessity and not an option? Large distances mean lengthy commutes to and from school, fields, work and sometimes all three.

A: Higher fatality rates occur in rural communities: In fact, from 1999-2004, there were 169 16-17 year-old drivers who died in motor vehicle crashes on Indiana rural roads compared to 32 on urban roads, meaning 5 times as many teen drivers are dying on rural roads vs. urban roads. Rural, suburban and urban teen drivers all suffer from immaturity and inexperience. They are at greater risk no matter where they live and what lifestyle they lead. Teen drivers are similar in many respects, but the road risks are not.

Q: My child is an outstanding student. Isn't this penalizing them?

A: Simply because a child makes good grades or is well behaved does not make them a good driver. Skills require practice and experience. We would never expect such students to automatically acquire athletic skill or be able to play a musical instrument with minimal instruction because they are "good kids."

Operating a motor vehicle, which can result in death or debilitating injuries, is a substantially riskier activity than playing the piano, yet we as a society often seem to expect our children to become experts after minimal supervised "practice" behind the wheel. Current Indiana law requires NO supervised practice time for driving.

Q: Why are nighttime restrictions necessary? My child must work in the evenings and many times teenagers do not even get home from school games/functions until later than the restricted time.

A: Exemptions are in place to allow for nighttime driving when related to work, school or church activities.

Death and injury for teen drivers are more likely to occur at night: 54% of all nighttime fatalities occur between 9 p.m. and 12 a.m. with 3 times as many fatal crashes compared to daytime hours.

Q: Aren't passenger restrictions more Dangerous because they put more teen drivers on the road?

A: Several studies have shown that teen driver crash rates double with one teen passenger in the vehicle, and this increases to 5 times with 2 or more passengers. This bill allows for passengers while driving with adult supervision.

Q: Isn't it the parent's responsibility to prepare their child to drive and not the government's?

A: Government, along with community and parents, must play a visible role in keeping young drivers safe. States with comprehensive GDL in place, including later licensure, stringent passenger and nighttime restrictions, have proven that significant teen crash reduction rates can be achieved. Evaluations of states with 5 of 7 GDL components in place, showed a reduction in teen crashes resulting in 38% fewer deaths and 40% fewer injuries. These restrictions have limited, short-term impact on lifestyles, but bring large safety benefits.

Q: Can GDL laws be enforced?

A: Yes, but they need to be clear and concise so that both law enforcement officers and parents understand them.

Parents are primarily the most effective enforcers of GDL limitations, and this law will give them extra support as they are establishing driving boundaries.

Resources: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS); AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety