Citation

McCartt AT, Leaf WA, Farmer CM, Ferguson SA, Williams AF. J. Saf. Res. 2001; 32(2): 119-131.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, U.S. National Safety Council, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Background: On July 1, 1996, Florida implemented a graduated licensing system for drivers younger than 18. The system included a 6-month learner's permit and nighttime driving restriction and made it easier to suspend the license for moving violations. On January 1, 1997, Florida instituted a zero tolerance law for drinking and driving for drivers younger than 21. Objective: To measure any changes in teenagers' behaviors and attitudes following adoption of graduated licensing. Method: A self-administered survey was given in Fall 1996 and Fall 1998 to juniors and seniors from eight high schools selected through a multistage sampling process. Differences between the 1996 and 1998 responses were examined. Results: Of the students who were licensed, almost all in 1996 were licensed under the old law, and almost all in 1998 were licensed under the new law. Licensed teenagers in 1998 were more likely to obtain permits prior to licensure, obtain permits at a younger age, hold permits for a longer period of time, and log more practice miles prior to licensure. Significant declines occurred among licensed teenagers in reported driving after drinking and in reported riding with friends who had been drinking. There were sharp declines in the percentages of students expressing strong opposition to each specific provision of the graduated licensing law. In general, effects reported in this study were seen in the urban and suburban, but not the rural, high schools. Conclusion: Positive changes in teenagers' behaviors and attitudes were associated with the implementation of the graduated licensing system. Impact on industry: Graduated licensing systems provide a cost-beneficial method for reducing motor vehicle-related deaths and injuries among young drivers and the associated societal costs.