The study was published in the Journal of the American Medical Association this week. Florida deserves credit for its early leadership on the issue. Williams said graduated licensing offers a sensible and less-risky way for beginning drivers to develop skills. As more hours are accumulated behind the wheel under the supervision of an adult driver, the restrictions are lifted. Researchers said programs may reduce crashes simply because teens spend less time on the road, or because safe driving is rewarded with more privileges.
More research is needed, but, in either case, the program is saving the lives of teen-agers.
Dan Gustafson, who sponsored graduated Michigan's licensing legislation in mid-1990s, told the Detroit Free Press the study's findings didn't surprise him. He said at the time he introduced his bill, there was concern that parents would object to more practice requirements for teens, but the law has proved popular because parents feel they have more control over the process. It's time the remaining 16 joined those exercising common sense.