January 23, 2012
By: Bruce Berry
A bill aimed at further tightening New Jersey's teen driving laws failed to pass after Governor Chris Christie chose not to sign it into law before last week's deadline.
The proposed law would have required new drivers under 21 to complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving time, signed by a parent or guardian, in order to give them more experience and perhaps prevent accidents and auto insurance claims. In addition, parents would need to either attend an orientation session or watch an online video designed to teach them about the state's graduated driver's license program.
"We did have some concerns about the scope of issues arising from the new requirements and insufficient time to review all those consequences, or unintended consequences, before today's deadline," Christie spokesman Michael Drewniak told the Asbury Park Press.
The paper reports the proposal was one of 14 recommendations which emerged from a 2008 Teen Driving Commission report.
Compared to other states, New Jersey has very strong driving laws. It was one of 17 states to recently be given a Green rating - the highest available - from Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.
Related Articles:
- Teens admit to texting while driving despite risks May 08, 2012
- NY regulators propose new insurance rules to reduce fraud May 03, 2012
- More auto insurance shoppers willing to switch May 01, 2012
- Survey finds teens believe they are safe drivers despite distractions April 27, 2012
- Returning soldiers have higher accident risks April 24, 2012
