The state of Connecticut is one of many U.S. states that has passed legislation initiating a “graduated” licensing system for teens in an effort to reduce the number of teens involved in Connecticut auto accidents. These types of laws have been implemented throughout the U.S. and a new study finds that the laws, in conjunction with other factors, may be the reason that fewer and fewer teens are choosing to get their licenses.
A recent report by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) found that there was a significant drop in the number of teens who have gotten their licenses over the last 25 years. In fact, from 1995 to 2021 the number of teen drivers in the U.S. has dropped from 64% to 40%, an incredibly dramatic decline. The report cites many factors, including graduated licensing laws, but there are other, social reasons why teens may not be getting behind the wheel at such an early age.
The FHA report cites some of the following reasons why teens may not be getting behind the wheel of a car at as early of an age as they previously have been including some of the following reasons;
-
Cities and towns are far more crowded now than ever before. As a result, cities and towns are not as car friendly as they had been twenty years ago and this is deterring teens from getting a license. Also, there may be less need given that many places are close together and within walking distance in a lot of U.S. cities.
-
Social networking and online socialization has replaced in-person gatherings and connection for many teens. In fact, teens are increasingly more likely to connect with friends online than in-person and for that reason there is less of a need for them to get their licenses to connect with friends.
-
Ride-share apps like Uber have empowered teens to utilize these services and save on the cost of gas and insurance on a vehicle while still having the freedom and flexibility that a license and a vehicle used to provide. With apps like Uber on their phone, teens can get from point A to point B quickly and cost effectively.
Teen drivers are often more likely to get into a Connecticut auto accident than those who are over the age of 20, so the decline in teen drivers may be looked at as a good thing by safety experts, however there may be a social component that could be of concern for other teenage experts. The decline in teen drivers could mean good things for the safety and well-being of our roads.
Whether you are 16 or 66 or any age in between, if you’ve been injured in an accident you may need to speak with one of our experienced attorneys. Contact our office and one of our attorneys will speak with you about your particular situation and work with you to protect your long-term interests.
