Proposed Law Would Establish Teen Driver Safety Commission to Examine and Review Teen Driver Training Requirements & Causes of Crashes

     New York State Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (R-Merrick) announced that the New York State Senate recently passed legislation he supports to help prevent teen driving deaths and crashes.

     The legislation (S3546) would create a Teen Driver Safety Commission to examine ways to improve driver education and training programs so that teens are better prepared to handle the challenges they will face on the road.

     “Motor vehicle crashes are the number one cause of death among teenagers, and sadly, we’ve all seen instances where teens lost their lives on the road. The best way to stop these tragedies is to ensure that teens have the best training possible before getting behind the wheel,” said Senator Fuschillo, Chairman of the Senate’s Transportation Committee. “Examining ways to better train teen drivers and combat the causes of teen driving crashes will help save lives and prevent senseless deaths on our roads.”

     Additionally, the Commission would review and assess the problems of driving under the influence, distracted driving, and aggressive driving among teenagers, as well as determine the type of motor vehicle violations that are most often associated with accidents involving teen drivers. Following the conclusion of its study, the Commission would report its findings, recommendations, and conclusions to the Senate, Assembly, and Governor.

     Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Teen drivers ages 16-19 are four times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a crash.

     The legislation has been sent to the Assembly.