Author

Ana M. Negron

Date of Award

Spring 5-29-2007

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration (MPA)

Abstract

The California Department of Motor Vehicle reports that the rate of teenage traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities is high. This results in vehicle accidents as the leading cause of death for teenagers between the ages of 15-19. The Department of Motor Vehicles warns young drivers that, "If you are under 18 years old, your risk of fatal accidents is 2 times that of the "average" driver." Your risk of an injury accident is three times higher than the average driver." (http://www.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/pgs76thru78.htm) A study by the Council of States Government states that, "between 1995 and 2004, 31,000 young people died in car crashes involving 15-20 year olds drivers, the majority of which were passengers, occupants of other vehicles and pedestrians.'' ( Council of States Government Healthy States Initiative Graduated Drivers Licensing Toolkit, 2006) The public and Government should be concerned because car crashes continue to be the number one cause of death in teenagers ages 15-20 . Studies show that teen drivers with teen passengers are eight times more likely to be involved in fatal car crashes that any other age group . Studies show that teen accidents are caused by lack of driving experience, knowledge of cars and needing to push themselves and cars to the limit; which directly relates to unsafe driving. This research proposal will examine the effectiveness of Graduated Licensing provisions and amending the provisions to include mandatory continued driver's education for teenagers ages 16-19 as a requirement to driving privileges for provisional and full licensing .

Share

COinS