As the mother of a new 17-year-old driver, my heart goes out to the families involved in this terrible tragedy.
I have always felt that there should be mandatory driver’s education for any new driver and a probation period until they can obtain a full license.
Much as it is in some areas of the US, a learners license is obtained for anywhere from six months to one year, during which time they must drive with a licensed driver over the age of 25.
After that a provisional license is issued, which restricts driving between certain hours (usually 11pm through 5 or 6am) and also restricts under-age passengers from riding in the car with a young driver on a provisional license.
I’m not sure of the time period involved for a provisional but I have heard it can be up to one year.
Along with the training, films are shown depicting situations involving, not only speeding, but drinking, fooling around and inattentiveness when driving and perhaps should also include talking on a cell phone.
There does come a time when every parent must let their child experience life on their own and that includes driving, but if we can give them a good foundation and experience we can send them on their way with more confidence and hope that they will make the right decisions.
Cally Clark
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