Crash Facts

"Collision with another motor vehicle in transport was the most common first harmful event for fatal, injury, and property-damage-only crashes. Collisions with fixed objects and noncollisions accounted for only 19 percent of all crashes, but they accounted for 44 percent of fatal crashes. -2003-";

Graduated Licensing: Good For All

 NHTSA Logo above "Graduated Licensing" on pink backgroundGraduated Driver Licensing System

A significant percentage of young drivers are involved in traffic crashes, and they are twice as likely as adult drivers to be in a fatal crash. Sixteen-year old drivers have crash rates that are about three times greater than 17-year-old drivers, five times greater than 18- year-old drivers, and approximately twice

 the rate of 85-year-old drivers. The factors contributing to these higher crash rates include lack of driving experience and inadequate driving skills; excessive driving during nighttime, higher risk hours; risk taking behavior; poor driving judgment and decision making; drinking and driving; and distractions from teenage passengers.

To address these problems, traffic safety researchers developed a licensing system that would prolong the learning process for young novice drivers. Based on this system, NHTSA and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators developed an entry level driver licensing program to give young drivers more time to learn the complex skills required to operate a vehicle. The program consists of three stages, identified at each stage by the type of license: learner’s permit, intermediate (provisional) license, and full licensure. Young drivers are required to demonstrate responsible driving behavior at each stage of licensing before advancing to the next level.

Inside This Issue:

  • Background
  • Key Facts
  • How Effective Are GDL Systems?
  • How Does GDL Work?
  • Which States Have a GDL System?
  • References



To read the issue in full.

A Traffic Safety Fact From NHTSA